The studio, in South Norwood, is a partnership between Croydon Council and All Heads Recognised (AHR), an organisation that provides educational support for young people.
The initiative aims to train young people to create community podcasts, providing a platform for them to discuss topics relevant to their lives and community.
AHR plans to offer studio hire services in the future, generating income for their Community Interest Company (CIC).
The project is part of the South Norwood Regeneration Programme, a £2.4 million initiative funded by the Mayor of London’s Good Growth Fund and Historic England’s High Street Heritage Action Zone.
The council has been working with AHR to offer business planning, project planning, and communications planning for future podcast programmes.
They have also connected AHR with business support through the council’s Creative Clinic and UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) business support programmes.
Since December, 20 young people have participated in the programme, receiving training from a media training specialist.
AHR plans to expand its podcast training to the community network in South Norwood and further afield.
Executive Mayor Jason Perry has welcomed the success of the podcast studio and attended the launch.
He said: “Our young people are learning valuable media, communication and technical skills, whilst discussing important topics that influence them and their community.
“We want to support the thriving creative industries in our borough and to make sure everyone has access to opportunities to gain skills that will support them in their careers.
“I really enjoyed meeting the young people and partners at the launch, as well as speaking in the podcast.”
Terry Lewis, AHR director, added: “At AHR we strive to empower communities, and nurture young talent through innovation and training.
“We got positive feedback from the young people.”
