Youngsters Launch Podcast

A GROUP of Southend teenagers have launched a new podcast, which explores mental health and inclusion in Southend.

The seven young people, all under 18, have researched, presented, recorded, edited and

produced The Collaborate Club themselves, with the aim of giving their generation a louder

voice in conversations about Southend and its future.

Presenter Joe Sterry, 17, from Leigh, hopes the experience will also help him take his first

steps towards a career in radio.

He said: “It’s all about creativity in Southend, especially among young people – what people can do better and what’s already on offer.

“I want to be a radio presenter, so it’s good to get those skills in my back pocket. I’m learning

real-life industry experience that I can take with me into the adult world.”

Behind the scenes, editor Elijah Cooper, 15, from Hockley, is developing his own ambitions in

audio production.

As well as editing the podcast, he helps with recording and making sure everything runs smoothly.

He said: “I want to be an audio engineer and work in that part of music – mixing, production and things like that.

“So it’s quite cool to get an insight into how podcasts are made in the professional world. It’s like taking a first step.”

Across the six-part series, the young producers will explore themes inspired by songwriting

projects carried out by young people across Southend.

They will interview local artists, musicians, politicians, youth representatives and community

organisations, as well as heading out into the town to hear what other young people think about its creative opportunities, and what they would like to see change.

Original music by young local musicians will feature throughout the series, including compositions by 16-year-old Madeleine Mack, from Rayleigh, in the first episode.

The project marks a collaboration between The Song School in Alexandra Street, Southend; Leigh-based podcast and radio production company Folded Wing; the official music education

hub for Southend, Music On Sea, and the Southend SEND Multi Schools Council. It

was supported by Southend’s Community Investment board.

Billy Hoyle, project lead at The Song School, said the project helped young people build confidence, develop career skills and discover opportunities in the music industry.

He said: “It’s been lovely to see them move forward and really take ownership of it.”

The Collaborate Club launched on Wednesday October 21 and will be available at

youtube.com/@thesongschool

Picture: The Collaborate Club in action.

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