Story: Muneebah Waheed
For Muslims here in Burngreave, the holy month of Ramadhan reminds us of the importance of food, of being patient and of being thankful. Ramadhan is a month which strengthens community ties and enhances relationships with many in the community.
Radio Ramadhan is an annual radio station, on air during the month of Ramadhan. The station, formed in 2000, strengthens bonds within the community during Ramadhan and many presenters are volunteers from Burngreave and Fir Vale.
The radio programmes span talk shows to kids' shows and feature daily competitions, captivating audiences at all times of the day.
Shamim Ali, a resident and teacher in Fir Vale, volunteers for Radio Ramadhan as a talk show host dedicated to women, offering advice and knowledge to the many listeners who tune into her show. She commented on the significance of Radio Ramadhan in Burngreave and Fir Vale saying:
“Radio Ramadhan creates an opportunity for the community to get together and stay informed and entertained. With TV, you have to watch a screen, but with the radio, you can listen to it on the go, allowing a wider audience to get involved with community spirit.”
The radio station is run by the impressive work of local volunteers, who dedicate their time and efforts during Ramadhan to broadcast informative and entertaining shows. Shaabir Mughal, the man behind Radio Ramadhan, acknowledged the valuable input of the volunteers, saying that it was “due to the hard work of the volunteers that the radio is up and running.”
In essence, Radio Ramadhan is an intrinsic part of the community in Burngreave and, as Sadiqa Ali, a local resident, says, “The month of Ramadhan wouldn't be the same without it.”
Radio Ramadhan will be on air on 87.7 FM from 1st July 2014, at the start of the month of Ramadhan.