Impact of Learning Waves on Ireland's Independent Radio Sector celebrated as it marks 20 year milestone.

On Thursday September 12th, Learning Waves Skillnet celebrated a milestone - 20 years of supporting Ireland's Independent Radio sector through training, development and networking. The event, hosted at the historic Clontarf Castle in Dublin, brought together a vibrant gathering of board members, former chairpersons, trainers, trainees, and professionals from the sector. It was an evening to reflect on two decades of achievement and to look to the future of the network. 

Fionnuala Rabbitt, Chairperson of Learning Waves Skillnet and CEO of Highland Radio, opened the evening with a heartfelt tribute to the impact the network has had on Independent Radio in Ireland since 2004. Reflecting on her personal journey, Fionnuala acknowledged, "I wouldn't have the fantastic career that I have in radio if it wasn't for Learning Waves," expressing deep gratitude for the opportunities the network provided her early in her career. She praised the remarkable growth of the organisation, from humble beginnings with 105 trainees in 2004 to over 600 trainees in 2023.  Fionnuala highlighted the continued success of the network's partnerships and its ability to innovate, particularly during challenging times like the pandemic, citing the network as a vital resource for the independent radio sector in Ireland. 

Paul Healy, CEO of Skillnet Ireland, delivered a speech celebrating the 20th anniversary of Learning Waves and Skillnet Ireland’s own 25-year milestone. Reflecting on their parallel journeys, he emphasised the connection between the two organisations and their shared mission to drive workforce development through industry-led collaboration. "From very humble beginnings, Skillnet Ireland started off just like Learning Waves, as a pilot initiative in 1999 with lots of hopes and dreams, Paul remarked that, "In its first year, Learning Waves had an aspiration to train 100 employees, and today that number has grown to over 600." 

Throughout his speech, he stressed the importance of collaboration between Skillnet Ireland, Learning Waves, and industry partners. "What has moved the dial and made our organisation so successful is the fact that everything we do begins and ends with companies. It's you, the practitioners on the ground, dealing with day-to-day challenges who inform us what the skills gaps are, and we trust you to make those decisions," Paul explained.

He concluded by thanking the many volunteers, industry partners, and companies who have supported Learning Waves and Skillnet Ireland over the years, especially thanking Network Manager, Teresa Hanratty, for her hard work and dedication. "You're prepared to invest in your people, to take them off the day job to focus on their growth. We want to thank you all for engaging with Skillnet Ireland over the last 20 years, and we owe you a debt of gratitude." 

Aoife MacEvilly, the newly appointed Commissioner for Broadcasting and Video on Demand at Coimisiún na Meán, said she was delighted to be there to share the achievements of Learning Waves and she said to the audience, '"well done, what a success story, it is fantastic to see the impact that the work you do has had on an industry which is constantly evolving and facing many challenges."  Aoife also highlighted that it is important that the industry continues to invest in training, in upskilling and in bringing new talent to the area.

Aoife also reflected on her personal journey and commitment to supporting quality journalism. "Part of the reason I joined Coimisiún na Meán was because I wanted to be involved in tackling misinformation and supporting quality reporting," she explained. She expressed her admiration for the Learning Waves Journalism Graduate Programme, emphasising its role in bringing new talent into the sector. "What we need is new talent coming into the sector, and it’s crucial to see high standards of journalistic ethics and integrity at play," she said. MacEvilly concluded by expressing her appreciation for the role Learning Waves has played in sustaining the sector and her anticipation for continued collaboration. "We really appreciate the opportunity to continue supporting Learning Waves through our sectoral learning and development programme and look forward to many more years of good engagement to come." 

Bernadette Prendergast, former Chairperson of Learning Waves and current Head of News at Galway Bay FM, addressed the audience with warmth and enthusiasm, celebrating the new Journalism Graduate Programme graduates for 2024. "The Journalism Graduate Programme serves as a great example of an apprenticeship. It bridges the gap between academic learning and practical experience," Bernadette said. She highlighted the unique value of the programme, noting that it acts as a modern apprenticeship, providing hands-on experience in busy radio newsrooms across the country. "The journalism scheme acts as a disruptor for the radio industry, enabling stations to benefit from new talent and fresh perspectives." She concluded with a heartfelt wish for their success and a reminder of the significant role they will play in shaping the future of radio journalism. 

Beginning her speech, Teresa Hanratty, Network Manager of Learning Waves, took a moment to express deep gratitude to Patricia Monahan, who recently stepped down as Chairperson of Learning Waves, after two and a half years as she takes up her new role as Director of Auido in RTÉ.  Teresa paid tribute to Patricia on a personal and professional leval as she said, "Your willingness to help people, to lead conversations, to get things done, has been instrumental in shaping Learning Waves. On behalf of everybody in this room tonight and everyone right across the industry, I want to wish you well in your new role."

In her heartfelt speech, Teresa Hanratty reflected on her two-decade journey with Learning Waves, starting with a phone call in March 2004 that marked the beginning of her career in radio. "It's hard to believe that 20 years have passed since Learning Waves was set up," Teresa said, acknowledging the many changes and challenges faced over the years. She expressed her gratitude to everyone who played a crucial role in her career, and to the many supporters and partners who have contributed to the organisation's success. "The support from Skillnet Ireland and Coimisiún na Mean has been instrumental in shaping our programmes and ensuring their continued success," she said. 

Teresa also took a moment to highlight the importance of trainers in the success of Learning Waves. "Our trainers are key to our success, and we would not be where we are today without their dedication and commitment," she emphasised. "The feedback and support from our trainees and industry partners have been crucial in shaping our programmes and driving continuous improvement," Teresa concluded, expressing deep appreciation for the friendships and professional relationships formed over the years. 

The evening wrapped up with a memorable performance by Mario Rosenstock, renowned actor, comedian, and creator of Gift Grub on Today FM. Mario captivated the audience with his remarkable array of impressions, witty humour, and engaging anecdotes from the radio industry, leaving everyone with a lasting impression. 

The celebration of Learning Waves' 20th anniversary at Clontarf Castle was a testament to two decades of dedication and impact in the radio industry. The event was a vibrant reflection on the organisation's journey, marked by heartfelt speeches, recognitions, and inspiring stories from key figures in the industry. As Learning Waves looks ahead, the collective support and enthusiasm from all involved promise a bright future for empowering radio professionals and continuing to shape the industry.