The Young Audio Awards 2020 has announced its winning stars in a live-streamed event today (Thursday, 8 May)
Organisers decided to stream the event due to the coronavirus lockdown.
Tomorrow’s radio stars are making shows about musical hits, Windrush and QPR – and it’s winning them the ‘Oscars’ of audio for under-18s.
Now in its second year, the Young Audio Awards shine a spotlight on young people who make radio shows, podcasts, and anything in between; whether through schools and local organisations or in their bedrooms.
Young Audio Awards
Moreover, the coronavirus outbreak wasn’t going to stop that happening, with the awards ceremony live-streamed via YouTube to kids across the UK today (Thursday 7 May).
Award Ambassadors Matt Edmondson and Mollie King from BBC Radio 1 joined some of the biggest talent in radio. They were handing out awards from their living rooms.
Annie Mac presented Best in Music to 15-year-old Oli Hackett. His show, Musicals My Way, is syndicated from his home in Corby; and airs across 43 different radio stations around the world, including in the USA and Spain.
Other guest presenters included TV and BBC Radio 2 presenter Rylan; BBC Radio 5 Live’s Laura Whitmore; singer and Hits Radio Breakfast presenter Fleur East; KISS FM’s Tyler West and Swarzy; and BBC Radio 1’s Greg James.
Also on hand to provide some extra magic to the ceremony was pop star HRVY. He performed an intimate acoustic session from his home.
The awards aim to widen the talent pool coming into radio and provide opportunities for young people to access an exciting industry that they may not otherwise be able to.
They recognise the impact radio can have, with Ocean Youth Radio in Torbay winning Achievement within the Community for their work.
Diversity’s Jordan and Perri, who host a show on KISS FM, presented the win to the station.
Judging panel
The judging panel, which comprises experts from across the radio and audio industries, including those who work behind the scenes and on-air talent, were looking for passion, enthusiasm, and in-depth knowledge from entrants, as well as skills including script writing, presenting, news-gathering, and editing and producing.
Awards were also given out for educational and technical achievements.
“I’m so happy to have won a Young Audio Award!” Becca Beavington, who won Rising Talent 16-18, said.
“I love being on air. It’s given me so much confidence.
“This is the first step to following my dreams and it was so cool to watch the livestream event.”
Siobhan Kenny, Radiocentre CEO, said: “Tomorrow’s radio stars, whether on air or behind the scenes, are incredibly driven and enthusiastic, and clearly care about their craft.
“The audio industry is in safe hands with them and I’m glad we were able to celebrate their talent with a special virtual ceremony.”
All the winners are here:
Best in Music: Oli Hackett – Syndicated Station -‘Musicals My Way’ – Individual
Achievement within the Community: Ocean Youth Radio – Torbay, Sound Communities – Community
BBC Sounds Rising Talent Award 8-11: Inarah Ali – Glasgow, Awaz Fm – Asian Community Radio
Best News, Sports and Documentary: The Boot Room – Global Academy
Most Innovative Team: Newington Triple A Radio – Ramsgate
BBC Sounds Rising Talent Award 16-18: Becca Beavington – Global Academy
Best in Comedy or Drama: The Tales of History – Empire Windrush & Tower Of London Torture – Individual
Technical Excellence: Kai Randles – Global Academy
BBC Sounds Rising Talent Award 12-15: Tia Brady – Folkeston Academy – School Radio
Best Use for Education: Trinity Radio – London – School Radio
Primary School Station of the Year: Newington Triple A Radio – Ramsgate – School Radio
Secondary School Station of the Year: Roundhay Radio – Leeds – School Radio
Best Podcast: Aiyla Ashaj And Shanzay Wahid – Individuals