Keeping the door open for young people at Native Naext Academy
Over the past year, a £2,000 grant from Fund for Wales, funded by Postcode Lottery, has helped Native Radio cover the running costs of its community studio, ensuring the space could remain open and available to young people throughout the year.
Not every grant funds a project – sometimes, it funds the space where everything happens.
Over the past year, a £2,000 grant from Fund for Wales, funded by Postcode Lottery, has helped Native Radio cover the running costs of its community studio, ensuring the space could remain open and available to young people throughout the year.
For many young people, the studio is a place to learn, create and gain experiences that might otherwise feel out of reach. It’s where radio shows are recorded, interviews are hosted, ideas are developed and new skills begin to grow.
Thanks to the funding, Native Radio has been able to continue supporting young people through its Native Naext Academy, with 15 students accessing equipment, creative opportunities and practical experience in media and broadcasting.
The studio has also hosted live sessions, radio interviews and community activities, giving participants opportunities to develop confidence, explore new interests and connect with others.
While the funding wasn’t used for a single project or event, it played a vital role in sustaining the organisation’s work. By helping to cover rent and utilities, it allowed the team to focus their resources on supporting young people and delivering activities that benefit the wider community.
The experience has reinforced something many community organisations already know: core costs matter. Reliable support for the everyday essentials helps organisations plan ahead, create stability and continue providing opportunities for the people who depend on them.
Looking ahead, Native Radio hopes to continue building on the success of the academy, creating more opportunities through radio, media and training programmes, and ensuring its studio remains a welcoming space for young people and the wider community.
Sometimes, the most important impact starts with something simple: keeping a door open. Fund for Wales supports organisations and projects that strengthen communities across Wales, helping local people create opportunities where they matter most.
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