Master’s students in Podcasting at City St George’s, University of London, are collaborating with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to launch an impactful podcast series. This initiative not only highlights the vital work of UNFPA in promoting sexual and reproductive health but also gives students hands-on experience in producing content that matters globally.
The UNFPA, a United Nations agency, strives to ensure every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled. This collaboration emphasizes the critical role of storytelling and innovation in addressing global issues, particularly those affecting women, girls, and young people.
Key Highlights
The Objectives Behind the Podcast Series
- Raising Awareness: The podcast will cover pressing issues such as gender equality, sexual and reproductive health, and the empowerment of women and girls.
- Real-World Experience: Students will engage with industry leaders and UNFPA professionals, gaining practical expertise in high-profile podcast production.
- Global Impact: The series is expected to drive meaningful conversations and inspire action for a more equitable future.
Key Contributors and Mentors
The project is spearheaded by influential leaders and experts:
- Brett Spencer: Senior Lecturer in Podcasting and Head of the Centre for Podcasting Excellence at City St George’s.
- Dr. Nigina Muntean: Chief of Innovation at UNFPA.
- Lalita Taylor: BBC Women in STEM (WiSTEM) co-chair.
- Dr. Glenda Cooper: Head of the Department for Journalism at City St George’s.
These mentors will guide the students, providing them with insights into both podcasting and critical global challenges.
Significance of the Collaboration
For Students
This partnership represents an unparalleled opportunity for students to work on a global stage.
- Professional Growth: Students will enhance their storytelling, technical, and production skills.
- Industry Connections: Direct engagement with UNFPA and BBC WiSTEM leaders offers networking opportunities that could shape their careers.
- Portfolio Development: A globally recognized podcast series will bolster their CVs.
For UNFPA
The collaboration aligns with UNFPA’s mission to innovate and amplify underrepresented voices.
- Broader Reach: Engaging content will be shared across streaming platforms and UNFPA channels, ensuring wide dissemination.
- Youth Engagement: By involving young creators, UNFPA connects with a tech-savvy, global audience.
Key Themes of the Podcast Series
The podcast will explore underreported yet vital topics:
- Sexual and Reproductive Health: Understanding the barriers and solutions.
- Gender Equality: Highlighting progress and ongoing challenges.
- Empowering Women and Girls: Stories of resilience and success.
Each episode will aim to inform, inspire, and drive action, showcasing the transformative power of storytelling.
Voices from the Project
Brett Spencer, Senior Lecturer in Podcasting
“This collaboration is a testament to the positive influence podcasting can have. It allows our students to create impactful content while working with one of the world’s most renowned organizations. This experience is invaluable as they begin their careers.”
Dr. Glenda Cooper, Head of Journalism
“Our department is committed to giving students industry experience while addressing stories that matter. This partnership allows us to shine a light on critical issues affecting marginalized communities.”
Lalita Taylor, BBC WiSTEM Co-Chair
“I’m thrilled to collaborate on this project, which merges innovative technology and diverse voices to highlight the challenges and triumphs of women globally.”
Dr. Nigina Muntean, Chief of Innovation, UNFPA
“Podcasts uniquely connect people and inspire change. Together with City St George’s, we’re empowering the next generation of champions for gender equity and women’s health.”
The Impact of Podcasting on Social Change
Why Podcasts?
Podcasts are a dynamic medium for storytelling, with the power to:
- Engage audiences emotionally and intellectually.
- Reach a global audience at scale.
- Spark meaningful dialogue and inspire action.
Driving Equity Through Innovation
This podcast series underscores how innovation and collaboration can address complex issues, advocating for a fairer world for women and young people.
The Role of City St George’s in Shaping Future Storytellers
City St George’s has long been a pioneer in journalism education.
- Centre for Podcasting Excellence: A hub for nurturing talent in podcast production.
- Real-World Learning: Students tackle live projects, blending academic knowledge with industry requirements.
- Commitment to Social Justice: The university emphasizes stories that amplify marginalized voices.
Looking Ahead: A Blueprint for Future Collaborations
This initiative sets a precedent for how educational institutions and global organizations can work together to:
- Innovate: Develop new ways of communicating complex issues.
- Empower: Equip students with skills to become change-makers.
- Transform: Drive actionable change through storytelling.
How to Listen and Engage
The podcast series will be available on major streaming platforms and UNFPA’s official channels. Audiences are encouraged to:
- Subscribe to the series for updates.
- Share episodes to amplify awareness.
- Join the conversation using dedicated hashtags.
