Rebecca Kathryn Niel - Founder of Urban Voices Community Media Ltd. & Chair of the Board
Buckle up, because talking about myself is like navigating uncharted territory – thrilling and a tad unpredictable! So, you know my name, and now there's a face to match. Ever pondered if I had one? Well, here it is!
Picture this: born in the electric energy of Newcastle upon Tyne in 1974 and raised in the dynamic landscape of the original Washington in Tyne & Wear. Ther eldest of three siblings, I hail from the chaos that is a big extended family. Now, both my folks have gracefully entered the realm of retirement - my mother, an NHS nursing superhero, and my dad, the engineering wizard
My roots trace back to a large extended family, of English, Scottish, Irish, & Polish descent, where the solemn echoes of tradition reverberate through generations and stories intertwine like the branches of a mighty tree. In the bustling year of 1974, I drew my first breath in the vibrant City of Newcastle upon Tyne, where the rhythm of life pulsed through its streets like a heartbeat.
Family, friends, and my feline confidante (prepare for cuteness overload with the obligatory cat pic) – they're the MVPs in my life. When I'm not soaking up their awesomeness, I'm strumming chords on my guitar, diving into crazy DIY adventures, or cooking up a storm. Forget the Starbucks lattes; I'm all about embracing the chaos and unleashing my inner optimist. Cross me the wrong way, and you might just witness a masterclass in non-confrontational vexation.
The world of music holds an extraordinary place in my heart, a passion that transcends genres. From the electrifying beats of rock to the catchy tunes of pop and the soulful narratives of country (excluding the "twangy," "whiny" kind, you know the type "my dog got ran over by a truck" kind), I find solace and excitement in the diverse melodies that paint the canvas of my life. And let's not forget the universally cherished Abba – because who can resist the infectious rhythm and timeless melodies of their iconic tunes?
Movies, another realm of fascination for me, provide a delightful escape into different narratives and worlds. While I shy away from the realm of gore, I am drawn to cinematic classics that stand the test of time. The suspenseful thrill of "Jaws" and the iconic heist escapades in "The Italian Job", contribute to a collection of timeless favorites. Yet, my enduring love for the captivating universe of Star Trek adds a unique flavor to my cinematic palate, as I continue to be enthralled by its exploration of the final frontier and the compelling narratives woven into the fabric of the cosmos.
Brace yourself for an exhilarating voyage into the intricate tapestry of my ancestral narrative, an extraordinary odyssey that feels like threading the needle of time itself.
Venturing into the mysterious realms of genealogy has been an awe-inspiring journey, a quest that transcends epochs and spins a tale as enchanting as the ancient looms of destiny. Picture this: delving into the echoes of my lineage, tracing roots back an astounding 9000 years, a pursuit akin to time-traveling through the rich tapestry of history.
Unveiling the secrets of my ancestry has been a mind-bending odyssey. Now, I'm on a mission to shine a spotlight on the incredible stories, places, and cultures that shaped not just me but all of us. My ancestry includes the formidable Scottish Armstrong Clan , ancient royal lineages, legendary Vikings like Ivar the Boneless, Erik the Red and Leif Erikson, and even ancient DNA ties to the illustrious Cheddar Man from 9000 years ago. This journey bridges antiquity and the present, weaving a collective story from the rich cultural landscapes across continents.
Now, let's dive into the thrilling realm of my fiery passion for Radio and Broadcast Media!
Imagine a whirlwind adventure spanning four exhilarating weeks of volunteering at a radio station adorned with a restricted station license, a journey that unfolded in the vibrant era of the mid 1990s. It was during this period that I found myself immersed in the dynamic world of broadcasting, a space where creativity collided with technology, and the airwaves pulsed with the heartbeat of society.
This experience became a transformative juncture, a pivotal point in my life where my enthusiasm for radio and media ignited into a blazing passion. Picture the studio buzz, the rhythmic beats of on-air production, and the electric energy of live broadcasts – it was a playground of possibilities that captured my imagination and set my aspirations ablaze.
Motivation, for me, is not just a tool; it's a secret weapon that fuels my every endeavor. And here, within the captivating realm of radio, I uncovered a profound source of inspiration that propels me forward. The conviction that my journey, my experiences, and my insights could serve as kindling to ignite a spark in someone else's path is what drives me.
Count me in for the mission of sharing. The idea that my narrative could be the catalyst for someone else's journey, sparking their passion and steering them toward the vibrant world of radio, broadcasting and media training, resonates deeply with me. It's a call to pay it forward, to contribute to the collective flame of enthusiasm that defines this dynamic industry.
I believe in the power of storytelling, the magic of connecting with an audience, and the importance of giving others the tools to find their own voice in this vibrant field. Whether it's through mentoring, training sessions, or simply sharing my story, I am committed to fostering a new generation of passionate broadcasters. Radio isn't just about transmitting sound; it's about transmitting passion, creativity, and connection. And I'm here to help others discover that for themselves.
Should my narrative serve as the catalyst igniting your own adventure, then we're embarking on something extraordinary. Life is an exhilarating rollercoaster, and delaying the pursuit of your dreams until tomorrow is simply not an option. Urban Voices Community Media is the launching point for your aspirations. Procrastination has no place in the present – life is unfolding now, and it's both a gift and a fleeting opportunity. The recent pandemic has vividly underscored how swiftly life can change, urging us to seize the moment and chase our dreams with unwavering determination.
