Industry networking event hosted by School of Media and Communication
The School of Media and Communication has hosted the Radio Academy Yorkshire Branch Summer Social.
The Radio Academy is the UK audio and radio charity, dedicated to supporting the industry. It aims to bring together people from across the audio sector, advancing equity and breaking down barriers to open opportunities for connection, development and celebration.
The event, which was open to everyone from across the audio sectors in Yorkshire to attend, saw radio and audio professionals gather at the University of Leeds for an evening of networking and talks focused on 'the future' of the industry.
Among the topics discussed were local journalism, the future of podcasting, and how research being done within the University of Leeds can have a positive impact on industry.
Speakers included Sophie Merrick, Northwest News Editor for the Bauer Media Group, Patrick Carter, Project Manager at Podcast Discovery, Andrew Edwards, broadcaster and event host, and Julie Firmstone, Professor of Journalism and Political Communication.
This event opened up so many opportunities for developing new ideas, collaborations and knowledge sharing with industry. Getting industry input and listening to industry insights in social ways is so important for building networks.
Aradhna Tayal Leach, Managing Director of the Radio Academy, said:
“Making new connections, sharing and learning are core to our mission at The Radio Academy. We’re therefore delighted to partner with the University of Leeds to bring together our audio community in Yorkshire, across all career levels and areas of the sector. We offer our members a wide range of opportunities for development and celebration throughout the year, with support from our industry collaborators, including mentoring, panel discussions, networking events and our annual awards, the ARIAS.”
Hosting this event will build and strengthen relationships with different sectors of the radio and audio media industry in Yorkshire. These can inform our future teaching and ensure our students stay up to date with the latest developments and discussions being had within industry.
Guests were also given a tour of the School's professional radio, podcast and TV studios, which were set up to play student work during the tour.
It is not the first time the Radio Academy has teamed up with the University of Leeds. In November 2023, Leeds Student Radio hosted 'Foot In The Door' to help entry and early career professionals build skills and network with industry professionals.
