The Jewish Chronicle

Volunteer of the week: Stuart Woolf

Radio Jcom Leeds

July 16, 2009 10:33
volunteer 0
1 min read

The retired dental surgeon also enjoyed a second career in amateur dramatics. In 1986 he formed The Potato Room Players, the resident musical drama group at Leeds City Varieties. The group folded earlier this year as the theatre closed for refurbishment. He was also a former producer for BBC Radio Leeds and has been appointed programme controller of Leeds Jewish community’s radio station, Radio Jcom

Why Radio Jcom?
Now that I have more time, I am delighted to be able to use my experience to get Radio Jcom up and running.

What does your volunteering involve?
As Radio Jcom goes on medium wave in September, my work involves meeting prospective volunteers and seeing where their talents can be best used. Principally I am looking for radio presenters and contributors to go out into the community and record interviews. I set up a broadcasting schedule for each day and chase people up to make sure their programme is ready.

What do you most enjoy about being a volunteer?
I enjoy the challenge of taking someone with a few hours to spare, and not a lot of confidence in broadcasting, and seeing that person crystallise into an articulate and professional radio presenter. The concept of a Jewish radio station for Leeds is hugely exciting.

What is your most memorable volunteering moment?
I have my own programme called Living With... where I talk to people coping with conditions or situations that may be considered unusual. I did an interview recently with a woman who has a 12-year-old autistic son. It was amazing listening to her and being aware how brave she was. Moments like that are memorable – and very humbling.