On the occasion of World Radio Day, RCF Nice Côte d’Azur (Radio chrétienne francophone) opened its doors to give their listeners a behind-the-scenes look at their favorite programs.
February 13 marks the World Radio Day, one of the oldest and most popular media in the world, spanning all generations. A date that echoes the creation of the United Nations Radio at the UN headquarters on February 13, 1946. The WRD aims to raise public awareness about radio, showcasing the importance and impact of this medium. According to Médiamétrie, France has a daily audience of over 38 million listeners.
With more than 17,000 daily listeners, RCF Nice Côte d’Azur ranks among the most influential community radio stations on a local scale. Founded 40 years ago, the national RCF radio network includes multiple local stations, such as in Nice or the Var. Here, the station operates solely through the invaluable help of around ten volunteers and one salaried journalist.
Today, around twenty people enjoyed this open house day, an opportunity to discover who is behind this voice they hear every day on their radio sets or in the car. It was the case for this listener who came to explore the premises. She immediately recognized the journalist. “That’s the voice I hear every morning!”
“Through the voice, emotions are conveyed”
Stevelan Chaizy-Gostovitch is the journalist in question. He took up the reins in 2020 to revitalize the station, which was then in a poor position. “Radio is a companion for many people. It’s a good way to combat loneliness. Through the voice, emotions are conveyed. Our editorial line is fraternity. We do everything, through the topics we seek in the morning, to be actors of fraternity.” After interacting with the people who came to meet him, Stevelan recreated the launch of a program as if he were in live conditions to show listeners the behind-the-scenes of the radio world.
A world that has evolved greatly and now aims to be digital with more and more podcasts and rebroadcasts on social networks. A whole new consumption mode that must now be adapted to. “Being able to make people understand, without images, without writing, as best as possible what is happening and what people are experiencing. That’s our challenge.”
The WRD is considered a positive and important event according to him. “Thanks to a day like today, we know what people are listening to, at what time, what they do or don’t like.” Proclaimed in 2011 by UNESCO member states, the WRD is recognized as an international day after being approved by the United Nations General Assembly on January 14, 2013.
