The Youth of Today

THE LOCAL BBC radio station is handing over the airwaves to a group of young people later this week.

Sixteen-year-old Mona Zuberi, 19-year old Luke Aquilina and Tom Jamieson who is 20 will be presenting The Youth of Today at 6:07pm on Thursday.

Among other topics they’ll be finding out what’s involved in getting a tattoo, going for an advanced driving lesson and meeting some modern apprentices.

Shetland Youth Theatre will perform their first radio play, and legal advice will be on hand about what to do if stopped by the police.

Radio Shetland producer Richard Forbes said Zuberi hugely impressed the team at Radio Shetland during a week’s work experience last year.

“It’s great to give her this opportunity to get back on the airwaves,” he said.

“Tom Jamieson has already established himself as a natural broadcaster on our health programme Shetland’s Heartbeat. He’s able to chat to people from all walks of life and put them at their ease.

“I met Luke Aquilina when we were recording a story about parkour. Despite being new to radio he has no problem communicating his enthusiasm to the listeners,” Forbes said.

Senior producer John Johnston said it had been many years since the station had a dedicated show made by young people for young people.

“We’re keen to bring younger listeners to the station. They’re part of the community in the isles that we strive to serve and reflect,” he added.