April 20th: Today’s Feature

April

Ujima Radio, a popular radio station in Bristol, has been broadcasting on 98.0 FM since its launch in 2008. However, in 2010, there was a change in ownership as Ujima CIC took over the station's management structure after its parent company, CEED, faced financial difficulties. This change in ownership brought about a new era for Ujima Radio, ensuring its continued presence in the community.

In 2013, Ujima Radio made a significant commitment to Ofcom, the regulatory body for the broadcasting industry in the UK. This commitment aimed to further enhance the station's programming and ensure that it catered to the specific needs of the African-Caribbean community in Bristol. Ujima Radio's dedication to providing a diverse range of programs, including news, arts, and cultural shows, has garnered strong support and active participation from the community.

Ujima Radio's impact extends beyond its programming. The station has actively engaged with the community by offering training in radio production and media skills. This initiative has been particularly beneficial for individuals living in areas of high deprivation, many of whom have faced educational and employment challenges.

Ujima Radio CIC stands as the premier African & Caribbean arts and media social enterprise in Bristol, dedicated to delivering on-air community broadcasting services. Operating round the clock, seven days a week, and all year long, they are committed to providing the local community with a platform for local news, engaging discussions spanning various topics, and a diverse mix of art and music from Bristol, the Caribbean, Africa, and beyond.

Ujima Radio's collaboration with BCFM in 2013 to launch the One Love Breakfast Show further exemplifies its commitment to fostering unity and inclusivity within the community. This joint venture has been recognized and awarded for its innovative approach to broadcasting. Additionally, Ujima Radio has received accolades such as the National Diversity Awards in 2015 and the Station of the Year award at the Community Radio Awards in 2016, further solidifying its position as a respected and influential radio station in Bristol.

Ujima has been successfully operating since its launch in 2008, and has managed to cultivate a dedicated audience of 30,000 daily listeners on FM. In addition to this, the station has garnered a significant following of 87,500 listeners who stream live worldwide online. Ujima has also expanded its reach by now being available on DAB, further increasing its accessibility to a wider audience.

Ujima is an organisation that provides support and training to more than 150 volunteers annually. These individuals contribute their time and effort to ensure that the station runs smoothly and delivers high-quality content to its listeners. Their commitment to Ujima's mission is commendable and has played a crucial role in the station's growth and popularity.

With a remarkable fifteen-year history, their radio station serves as a platform for individuals, groups, and issues that might otherwise be overlooked. Ujima Radio has gained widespread acclaim for its diverse range of initiatives, extending beyond the confines of the studio. Notable examples include their Sistas With Voices live events, the Black & Green Project, and Ujima Nights, a collaboration with Bristol Old Vic that showcases the talents of Bristol artists.

The collective efforts of Ujima have been recognised through numerous awards, including the prestigious National Diversity Award in 2015 and the Community Radio Station of the Year Award in 2016. Additionally, they have received several local accolades for their exceptional broadcasting, projects, and overall impact.

In 2016, Ujima achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first radio station in the UK to secure funding from Arts Council England. This accomplishment highlights their commitment to fostering partnerships with major media organisations in Bristol, such as BBC Bristol and other local media outlets. Through these collaborations, Ujima actively promotes and raises awareness about positive news stories and diverse perspectives from the local community. By amplifying the voices of underrepresented individuals and groups, Ujima plays a vital role in ensuring that a wide range of perspectives are heard and valued.

Ujima is the Swahili word for “collective work and responsibility” and this principle is at the heart of all they do.

Ujima's dedication to community engagement and their innovative approach to broadcasting have solidified their position as a trailblazer in the industry. Their tireless efforts to empower volunteers, provide a platform for marginalised voices, and collaborate with key media organisations have not only garnered national recognition but have also made a lasting impact on the local community. Ujima's commitment to inclusivity and their ability to create meaningful connections between diverse communities and the media make them a true force for positive change.