Bob Dylan once decried, “the radio makes hideous sounds,” indubitably evidence that the seminal songwriter had not heard the results of the collaboration between students at training institute SAE Sydney and Energy Groove Radio, currently crossing the digital airwaves.
As one of Australia’s leading media and technology training grounds, SAE prides itself on developing the practical skill base of it’s students and encouraging the content creators of tomorrow. The college’s latest project involves SAE students curating their own radio shows to be streamed around the world via online provider Energy Groove Radio.
SAE Institute Sydney Campus Manager Jens Schroeder believes the program offers students a unique chance to develop radio industry acumen. “This collaboration is a great opportunity for our students to work in an international radio station,” notes Schroeder, “given that we broadcast in 41 countries and they’re planning on expanding that which means acquiring different licenses, so it’s a great opportunity for students to experience the workings of an international radio station in the terms of producing their own shows, hosting their own shows and maybe further down the road also being able to broadcast their own content that they created.”
It's an opportunity which has been exceedingly popular among SAE pupils. “When we called out for auditions I think we had more than 60 students apply for that and that was just the first round,” Schroeder says. “We’re planning on doing more auditions and you know they really really like it and some of them really are natural talents.”
Once discovered, potential radio stars are afforded the chance to hone their craft and build a portfolio in a supportive environment, as Energy Groove Radio owner and managing director Freddy El Turk notes.
“Energy Groove and SAE institute collaboration has allowed talented up-and-coming students to be given a 'voice' on radio and develop the skills they are currently studying. This student focus will encourage a global community of students to login and enjoy an excellent variety of music, talk shows and educational material. Encouraging students to interact with the Radio station and it's audience will build and develop a strong educational platform for innovative and independent learning.”
Adds Schroeder, “Its like it really is a blank canvas for us and we’re only just starting to explore the possibilities.”
