Volunteer

Be part of Gaydio

After completing a course, there are opportunities to progress to further work experience and volunteering with Gaydio.

Why Volunteer?

Be part of something bigger

Volunteering with Gaydio is a chance to give back, build your skills, and help the next generation of LGBTQ+ voices find their confidence.

Industry Experience

Build your CV with real hands-on experience in a broadcast environment.

Support Your Community

Help create a safe, inclusive space for the next generation of LGBTQ+ voices.

Build Connections

Grow your professional network within the LGBTQ+ media industry.

Develop New Skills

Learn facilitation, production and mentoring skills alongside our team.

Have Fun

Real studio moments, on-air banter and a friendly, sociable team along the way.

Want to get involved?

Academy volunteering sign-up isn't open through the website yet. Looking to volunteer with Gaydio itself, beyond the Academy, in the meantime?

Apply to be part of the Gaydio team →

Tips from the inside

Advice from radio professionals

Emma Goswell

Presenter, Producer and Podcast Creator · BBC

On journalism: "If you want to work in journalism you can't blag it: you'll need a post-grad in broadcast journalism or equivalent, and a good knowledge of media law."

On experience: "Get the on-air miles in. Real experience in live radio is worth way more than anything you learn in the classroom. Be prepared to approach dozens of stations and don't give up."

Looking back: "Stop feeling like you're not good enough! I never had the confidence to work in radio in my 20s, but you ARE good enough, and don't you dare give up."

Brett Harris

Presenter · Gaydio

On curiosity: "Be curious, be inquisitive. Radio is an evolving beast, so it pays to look out for emerging media trends, be multi-platform, and embrace them."

On roles: "Don't be scared to look at some of the broader roles within the industry. I've created my best work by being part of a commercial team."

Looking back: "Radio is a really fun industry to work in. Networking is key, so don't be intimidated by a role, just go for it."

Vicky Hawksworth

Presenter · BBC Radio 1

On finding your voice: "Find your own voice, draw inspiration from others, but ultimately be yourself. The industry already has a Greg James. Be the first you."

On experience: "Get as much experience as you can. If you're a student get to an SRA event: I went to one event that led to an internship and then my first job in radio."

On applying: "Apply for things even if you think you won't get it. Send a second email to that radio station. People have very full inboxes, so it can't hurt to remind them you exist."

Kriss Herbert

Presenter and Content Director · Gaydio

On demos: "Don't send it via a link that's going to expire, and keep it within 3 minutes. Show off all your skills: the presentation, the personal touch, a read, weather, anything."

On tailoring: "Tailor your demo to the station you're sending it to. This is about YOU: I'm not expecting an award-winning production, I just want to know what you can bring to the table."

On getting noticed: "Networking, my friend! Follow the decision-makers on social media and engage with them, because every programmer wants to find the next big thing."

Paul Swaine

Brand Partnership Director · Voiceworks.ai

On networking: "Stay open-minded, eager to learn, and don't hesitate to ask questions. No one knows everything. Network like crazy: hit up events and LinkedIn, and consider work experience to get your foot in the door."

On hard work: "Make yourself an invaluable asset and don't shy away from hard work. Jump into as many projects as you can and embrace stepping out of your comfort zone."

Looking back: "Trust me, it'll all pay off. The extra hours, late nights and deadlines: keep pushing forward, stay true to yourself, and banish self-doubt."

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