We’re excited to share that we once again have an opportunity for people with experience of the asylum system to get involved in producing a radio show that will go out live on Radio Buena Vida.

This will involve three workshops learning storytelling and audio production skills, led by freelance journalist and radio producer Robbie Armstrong. These will include things like workshops have included training in interviewing techniques, recording, presenting and editing. This will be followed by one workshop on using DJ equipment at Radio Buena Vida.

Each participant will be provided with a mobile phone compatible microphone to go out and record and produce the stories they want to tell.

In the last show, we had stories about shisha traditions, another about Afrobeat in Glasgow, conversations around food and an intro to Unity Sisters, an organisation that supports women asylum seekers – all interspersed with music chosen by the particpants.

We asked previous participants how they found the experience...

Arij, originally from Syria said: "Through my experiences with the workshops, I learned not to underestimate my abilities because everyone has a creative side to share. I also learned about vinyl records during my visit to the Buena Vida station in the Some Great Reward record store – and that there is a different world that I have never seen before, which made it even more interesting. We would never have been so creative if the workshop team weren't so supportive throughout. I hope everyone finds the programme as enjoyable to listen to as we found it to make!

Ibrahim, from Sierra Leone, said: “I have learnt a lot of new skills from our trainers which makes me feel confident and excited for the radio show going live!”

Virginie said: “I learnt what good audio is and how to record it using different tools. I also learned how to edit an audio using an app. Getting to practice hosting an episode was an exciting moment for me, while at the same time I was anxious. Learning how to DJ was fascinating! Practicing how to use CDJs and vinyl skills, combining it with being a presenter was a chance to gain additional skills.”

The shows producers even won an award for their work at the Scottish Refugee Festival Media Awards!