Young Hillz has become more than just a radio project – it’s a space your young people in Hillfields and Coventry to explore their creativity, build confidence and find a positive space to belong.
Run by Working Actively to Change Hillfields (WATCH), the community radio station broadcasts seven days a week to the city’s diverse community, with the help of 30 volunteers. In response to a request for new equipment, Wooden Spoon Warwickshire granted funds for a new transmitter and a second studio, to produce podcasts and demo tapes.
WATCH Chief Executive, Nadia Taghi, explained: “Through our sessions, we’re helping young people develop real media skills, from running a radio show to recording and editing their own demos in the studio. But beyond the technical side, we’re giving them a place where they feel safe, heard, and supported. By providing a structured and positive after-school environment, we are ensuring that young people have a constructive and engaging space to spend their time. They have a space where they can focus on something positive, surrounded by mentors and like-minded peers who push them to do better. Having their own shows allows them to explore, research, and dive deeper into topics they’re passionate about, whether it’s music, mental health, social issues, or local events.”
The studio’s upgrades have given the young people access to professional equipment, making them feel like real broadcasters. The space isn’t just about learning technical skills – it’s about giving young people a sense of purpose, and pride in their work. One of the broadcasters at Young Hillz, Yasmin, tells us what it means to her:
“It has changed my life in the best way possible. I came here as a little 11-year-old. So shy of the world, I was an introvert, the biggest introvert you ever met, and now? Four years later, here I am speaking as a public speaker and activist. It’s just changed my life so much. I have learnt so many life skills, my confidence has grown tremendously. I’ve become so much more confident because of speaking on the radio and especially to speak about things I enjoy and sharing that with the community. It’s just such a fun and enlightening experience that I think everyone should do it.”
“Four years later, here I am speaking as a public speaker and activist. It’s just changed my life so much. I have learnt so many life skills, my confidence has grown tremendously.”
Yasmin, one of the broadcasters at Young Hillz
Company No 1847860, Registered in England Registered address: Sentinel House, Ancells Business Park, Harvest Crescent, Fleet, Hampshire, GU51 2UZ
Charity Registration No 326691 (England & Wales) and SC039247 (Scotland)
