The Ōtaki Kids Market was established in January 2023, and not long after the first market an exciting collaboration was established with Coast Access Radio.
What better way to promote the Kids Market than with live radio interviews featuring the young participants! Each interview spotlights individual stallholders and raises awareness about the market.
This partnership supports young entrepreneurs and gives them a platform to promote their products and share their stories through live radio interviews.
For many young people, speaking live on the radio can be a daunting prospect. This experience is incredibly valuable in building confidence and honing communication skills. The support from Coast Access Radio ensures that each young entrepreneur feels prepared and comfortable during their interview. These skills will serve them well in future endeavors, both in business and in life. It's a a safe space, with professional DJs they can share their journey, discuss their products, and connect with a broader audience.
Empowering young people
Giving young people a voice on the radio, the Ōtaki Kids Market and Coast Access Radio are helping to nurture the next generation of business leaders. Creating a sense of community and pride, as locals tune in to hear about the achievements of young people in their community.
Eight-year-old Ruby, one of the youngest participants, charmed everyone during her interview. When asked about her talents, she mentioned gardening. The host then inquired how many talents she had, and without hesitation, Ruby confidently replied, "I have five talents," and proceeded to list each one.
Young people who so far have taken part:
Young people from across the region have embraced the opportunity to be interviewed on the radio. Representing Ōtaki are Lilly, Oliver, Matthew, Fletcher, Ruby, Zhyla, and Peia. Lauren joins from Te Horo, while Tal and Anabel come from Paraparaumu. Waikanae sisters Penelope and Erin, along with Milly from Raumati. Isabel hails from Pukerua Bay, and Hester, Tara, and Quin represent Porirua. Ciara has traveled from Upper Hutt, and Alanah comes from Levin.
Whether it's handmade crafts, delicious baked goods, innovative tech gadgets, or artistic creations, each stallholder shares their story behind their products. This personal connection helps to build customer loyalty and encourages listeners to visit the market.
A standout interview featured 10-year-old Matthew, who sells delicious jars of honey from his family's business. When the host asked him to share some fun facts about honey, Matthew proudly announced, "Honey is actually bee vomit."
Coast Access radio is a beloved local station, reaching a diverse and engaged audience. Each day Coast Access Radio produces unique radio shows in Kapiti and Horowhenua. From Pukerua Bay to Tokomaru and across to Foxton, tune in to 104.7 daily.
Broadcasting facilities at their Studios in Mahara Place, and a recording hub in Levin, allows individuals and groups to make their own programmes either by themselves or with support from our technical team. Coast Access Radio is governed by a charitable entity called the Coast Access Radio Trust. They receive annual funding support from NZ On Air, and also rely on airtime contributions from users, grants, sponsorship, advertising and donations.
Coast Access Radio is by, for and about the Kapiti Coast and Horowhenua Community.
This partnership is a shining example of how community collaboration can support and empower young people to share their stories.
Tune in to Coast Access Radio to hear the incredible stories of Ōtaki's young entrepreneurs and visit the Ōtaki Kids Market to support their businesses. Together, we can help nurture the talent and creativity of our future leaders.
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