- Selection process to identify 40 radio presenters, DJs, and emcees with auditions starting on August 10th
- Focus on discovering fresh talent rather than seasoned professionals, targeting 18 to 24 age group
- Competition spans various categories including radio presenters, DJs, emcees, and podcasters with specific criteria for each category
The BEAST MODE MVP talent search, organized by NRG Radio Uganda, has reached a critical phase as video submissions are now closed. The initiative, launched to discover fresh talent in the radio and entertainment industry, has received an overwhelming response with over 6,000 submissions. Kevin Belwood, the Group Head of Broadcast, provided insights into the next steps of the competition and the broader goals of this initiative.
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"We've had over 6,000 submissions, and we are planning now to go through them over the next two weeks or so. We'll whittle them down to 106," Belwood explained. The selection process aims to identify approximately 40 radio presenters, several DJs, and a few emcees, with the auditions set to begin on August 10th. The shortlisted candidates will receive a briefing on the expectations and format of the auditions a day before the event.
Belwood emphasized the importance of discovering new talent, rather than seasoned professionals.
"I'm not looking for people who've been on radio before. I want people who are fresh and new to this business," he said. This approach aligns with NRG Radio's mission to nurture young talent, specifically targeting the 18 to 24 age group, though there is some flexibility for slightly younger or older candidates.
The competition spans various categories, including radio presenters, DJs, emcees, and podcasters. Each category has specific criteria. For instance, podcasters are encouraged to present unique and marketable ideas.
"We're looking for really good, sellable podcasts and great ideas. Unusual ideas. Ideas that not necessarily have been done before," Belwood noted. For radio presenters, the focus will be on personality and trustworthiness on air, with successful candidates receiving training before going live.
Belwood also mentioned that the number of finalists would depend on the quality of the talent discovered. "If we find five really good ones, we'll take five. If we only find two good ones, then we'll take two," he explained, highlighting the flexible and merit-based approach of the competition.
The BEAST MODE MVP talent search is not just a local initiative; it forms part of NRG Radio's broader ambitions to expand its presence in Uganda and beyond.
"NRG is not just this radio station. We are planning in a number of other places," Belwood hinted, suggesting future developments for the network.
As the contest progresses, excitement builds around the potential discovery of Uganda's next big radio stars. For many aspiring broadcasters, this competition offers a significant platform to showcase their skills and possibly launch their careers in the media industry. The BEAST MODE MVP talent search represents a unique opportunity for young talents to break into the world of radio and entertainment, backed by the influential platform of NRG Radio.