Colourful Radio
 | |
| Broadcast area | London, Birmingham, Manchester |
|---|---|
| Frequency | DAB |
| Programming | |
| Format | Soul / Reggae / Speech |
| History | |
First air date | 30 May 2002 (commercial broadcast) |
| Links | |
| Website | www |
Colourful Radio is a British commercial radio station founded in 2002 by Kofi Kusitor. The station broadcasts on DAB in London, as well as via mobile apps, smart devices, and online, making it accessible to a global audience.
History and Background
[edit]Established with a mission to reflect the diversity of its audience, Colourful Radio has consistently featured a broad range of presenters from various professional and cultural backgrounds. Its programming spans music, news, current affairs, and community-focused content, catering primarily to Black British communities and other underrepresented groups in mainstream UK media.
Notable Alumni
[edit]Over the years, the station has served as a platform for a number of high-profile broadcasters and media professionals, including:
- Simon Woolley, Baron Woolley of Woodford – political and equality activist.
- Tessa Sanderson CBE – Olympic gold medallist and sports broadcaster
- Rodney Hinds – Sports Editor
- Hugh Muir – former Executive Editor (Opinion) at The Guardian
- Natasha Devon MBE – LBC presenter and mental health campaigner
- Henry Bonsu – broadcaster and Times Radio contributor
Recent Line-Up
[edit]Colourful Radio’s current roster includes a dynamic mix of voices such as:
- Lorraine King, journalist
- Delia Delor, journalist and broadcaster
- Sinai Fleary, journalist
- Michael Ohajuru, historian and founder of The John Blanke Project
- Jazzi Q, DJ and original member of Soul II Soul
- Winnie-Ama, singer-songwriter and DJ
- Deoba Authentic, singer-songwriter and DJ
- Ricardo Rocafella, original WNK Radio DJ
- Steve Quirk, former Jazz FM DJ and musical director
Community Involvement
[edit]Colourful Radio has maintained a strong commitment to community development and grassroots engagement. It has served as an official media partner for numerous initiatives and events, including:
- UK RumFest– 3-year media partner — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UK_RumFest
- Employ Wandsworth Jobs Fair – 3-year media partner — https://www.wandsworth.gov.uk/news/news-may-2024/one-week-until-employ-wandsworth-jobs-fair/
- UK Black Business Show– 7-year media partner — https://www.ukblackbusinessshow.co.uk
Through its partnerships, the station has supported the growth and visibility of hundreds of organisations, playing a significant role in the cultural and entrepreneurial ecosystem of the UK.