A brand new online community radio station for the South African LGBTI population has started broadcasting from Pretoria.

Gay SA FM is a voice for the South African lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) population, while at the same time providing useful information and entertainment. Being part of the family of Gay SA FM means that the listener has a role model, a mentor and a guide to help them navigate not only the gay scene, but their lives in general.  

Through its plan of using a crafted fusion of dance music, entertainment and LGBTI specific information, Gay SA FM is best suited to empower and positively influence listeners to live their lives out proud. As the only LGBTI radio station in the country, broadcasting in English, Gay SA FM is in a position to deliver both a global and national perspective that instils confidence and inspires its audience. Gay SA FM wants to break down the barriers between sexes, ages and races, between gay and straight and contribute to understanding and acceptance.  

The station first started broadcasting in August of 2015. Up to now the station has been mainly a playlist with a weekly live broadcast.  From February more pre-recorded content will be phased in, with more live broadcasts being added to the mix from March.   The aim is to broadcast live from the middle of the year. “The planning is almost complete and about to be implemented”, says Programme Manager Ethan Baird, whose task it is to create the on-air aspect of the station. “There is a lot of work ahead to ensure we can broadcast live in the near future.”  

As a community based initiative with no funds at present, the station is relying on volunteers to serve as presenters, contributors and other behind the scenes staff. A drive is currently underway to find suitable people who are willing to put the effort in to help make this station fully functional. The volunteers will start their training during the next few.   As the programming is introduced, the station will start selling advertising so as to pay for the costs. There is as yet no outside funding to help start-up, so the volunteers are putting in all the effort required for the station to start generating income. The station will target LGBTI service providers and mainstream advertisers who want to reach the gay and lesbian market. Sales agents are required all over the country to help make this dream a reality.  

“This is such an exciting idea”, says Ethan. “Gay SA FM is going to be big news soon!” Gay SA FM will not only broadcast via its website, but will be able to stream into certain gay and lesbian venues. It will also host live events and outside broadcasts. A series of launch parties will be hosted over the next few months to create awareness and attract new listeners.  

Gay SA FM is passionate about serving the LGBTI people of South Africa and the people involved enthusiastic about making it a success. As more people start tuning in, the station can start growing and developing to best serve the needs of the community it aims to serve.  

Gay SA FM. Where you are family.

Issued by:  

HENDRIK BAIRD
Managing Member
Gay SA FM

Tel 012-333-1067
Cell 072-629-4990
Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website www.GaySAFM.co.za
Live stream www.GaySAFM.co.za/live-stream/