The Cornwall Community Media Network (CCMN) came together again this year to host a second Media Skills Bootcamp, where participants taking part received a comprehensive introduction to all aspects of community radio, including presenting, production, technical support, content creation, and wider support roles.
After an open call for interest, members of the public were invited to join a meet and greet event held at BBC Radio Cornwall to learn more about the programme, future volunteering opportunities, and for a special tour of the BBC Radio Cornwall studios. The successful applicants then moved onto a 4-week training programme, led by industry experts to learn more about digital media and community broadcasting.
The concept of launching a Media Skills Bootcamp arose as a means to reignite community engagement in local radio, and to spark an interest with listeners to become volunteer presenters. Last year’s Bootcamp birthed a great success story, with participant Janice Rose going on to become a volunteer presenter at Source FM. “It was truly an honour to participate in the Bootcamp, now in its second iteration. Witnessing the ideas and enthusiasm from fellow participants was inspiring. It made me reflect on my journey—from starting clueless to evolving into a presenter, producer, collaborator, stage host, event manager, board member, and now Vice Chair of the SourceFM board—all within a year” says Janice.
“It’s remarkable how much can change in such a short time, and it all began with seizing the opportunity to attend the Bootcamp. Who knows where I’ll be next year? The possibilities are endless. Dream big, believe, achieve and the dream bigger” Janice continues.
The Cornwall Community Media Network is a collaboration of CHAOS Radio (formally Radio St Austell Bay), CHBN, Source FM, and Coast FM – supported by The CHAOS Group and BBC Radio Cornwall. Working together they improve communication and access information across the county, whilst collaborating to support and improve our communities. The CCMN focus on uniting the community radio sector through collaboration and content sharing, whilst opening up media skills to the people of Cornwall through volunteering opportunities, whilst providing access to skilled professionals and unique training sessions.
If you’re interested in finding out more about your local community radio station and the opportunities available, visit https://mediabootcamp.co.uk/ or call 01872 228844.
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