Category: Featured News

Ujima launches brand new Drum & Bass Programme – Full Cycle Records Show!

Mercury Prize Winning Record Label join Ujima’s roster of shows!

 

We are really proud to launch our brand new show the Full Cycle Records Show!
We’ve got a fun packed show hosted by DJ Siva Gold.
She’ll be joined by Full Cycle artist and label manager Kit who will be supplying a guest mix 🔊
The show kicks off  Friday 3rd April at 6pm-8pm!
Lots of new and exciting music for you, Full Cycle style 🎵
Full Cycle Records set up in early 1990’s by Mercury Prize winners Roni Size Krust & crew. Trailblazers & originators of Drum & Bass the roster of artists now featured on the label will be featured in rotation on this amazing new show.
Listen on 98FM & DAB in Bristol & worldwide online:

 

About Siva Gold:

Siva Gold is a female Bristol-based drum & bass DJ, radio presenter and resident with Full Cycle.

A fixture in Bristol’s vibrant music scene, she is known for her exceptional tune selection blending fresh new releases with legacy tracks, and her ability to craft sets that entertain and fill dance floors long into the night.

Siva first fell in love with jungle and drum & bass while listening to pirate radio stations in the 90s. While studying music and dance at university she learned to DJ, before going on to build a successful career in radio broadcasting. In fact you’ve probably heard her presenting the news on Heart, BBC, Jack FM or Kiss FM.

Full Cycle Founder Roni Size says: “Siva instinctively knows how to curate sets that fill dance floors and radio shows that build loyal followings. Her deep knowledge and experience built up over 30 years of being immersed in the scene, means she knows exactly how to put on a show that’ll entertain any audience.”

 

 

 

About Kit:

After signing to Proximity Recordings, Grid Recordings & Technique Recordings in earlier years, Kit released his first 12″ Vinyl EP titled ‘Desolate EP’on Fokuz Recordings. Support for his debut extended player came in thick and fast from Mc Conrad, DJ Aphrodite, Fabio &Grooverider, 2Shy, DJ Clarky, DJ Mantra, Brookes Brothers, Twisted Individual, DJ Rap, Alibi, Madcap, Basher, Frankee, Kenny Ken, Double O, DJ Andrezz, DJ Craze, dRamatic & dbAudio, Nicky Blackmarket, Doc Scott and Noisia. His follow up single titled ‘Molecules’ released on Vibez 93 has already gained support from LTJ Bukem, Random Movement, John B, Kenny Ken, Aphrodite, Sweetpea and Paul SG which kicked off 2022 in style for him. The level of support for Kit is growing bigger each day, most credibly with his track ‘Survive’ gaining BBC Radio 1 airplay by Jaguar for BBC Introducing. In 2023 Kit literally found himself on the door step of Mercury Prize winner Roni Size. Roni gave Kit a shot at remixing his current single. Battle Lines, by Roni Size & Reno Ka Featuring Katya Gabeli & Prod By Insula which was received well with support from Dr Meaker, Bryan Gee, B-Complex, Drumsound, Nicky Blackmarket, Random Movement, Nu:Tone & Doc Scott for example. This fruitful partnership is a testament to Kits trust and internal gratefulness to Size for supporting his unreleased music all over the world, A&Ring him and building him into a stronger artist who is set to release his debut EP on Full Cycle Records. The proof is in the 2026 pudding as Kit is constantly working his magic at Full Cycle Records as their label manager ensuring things are running like clockwork. Whether that is the release schedule, promoting Full Cycle events or running Full Cycle Radio on Ujima Radio. All of this whilst simultaneously elevating his productions which have gained yet more BBC Radio 1 support with his unreleased track West Coast Calling being featured on Danny Byrd’s D&B 60 Mix for the Official Drum & Bass show with Charlie Tee back in January of this year. 

Ujima Radio are very excited to have this team of DJ’s and Producers join our roster of specialist DJ’s.

 


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We Don’t Do That Here – BCFm & Ujima Radio join forces!

Two of Bristol’s community stations, BCfm and Ujima Radio join forces to create a groudbreaking documentary!

Thanks to Bristol Recovery Fund Ujima and BCFM were able to combine forces to produce a crucial protocol for community media in times of unrest as well as this important documentary archiving the unrest in 2024.

In August 2024, unrest swept across the UK after the tragic killings in Southport, fuelled by online misinformation and weaponised fears about migration. In Bristol, the tension erupted in Castle Park and outside the Mercure Hotel, where asylum seekers were housed. The police presence was thin. The danger was real. And yet, what happened next was extraordinary, ordinary Bristolians put their bodies on the line to defend their neighbours.

We Don’t Do That Here is a one-hour audio documentary from Bristol’s community radio stations – BCfm and Ujima, weaving together multiple in-depth interviews with those who lived it: refugees inside the hotel with their children, activists and local residents on the streets, police officers, youth workers, charity leaders, journalists, and community broadcasters. Their voices reveal the fear of that week, the courage of those who stood in solidarity, and the deep divisions that surfaced under pressure.

The programme also investigates the powerful role of media and misinformation, such as how a single false claim spiralled into riots, how national outlets inflamed stereotypes, and how community radio and grassroots networks became lifelines of truth. Listeners hear not just about what happened, but why, and what it tells us about Britain in an age of polarisation.

Above all, this is a story of resilience. From smiles through hotel windows to grandmothers holding banners, from grassroots charities to city-wide counter-protests, Bristol’s communities demonstrated that hate would not go unchallenged. This documentary asks: what does it take to keep a city safe, welcoming, and united, and what can the rest of the country learn?

 

Listen to the documentary on Soundcloud:

We Don’t Do that Here Documentary

A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS

Contributors:
Muneera Pilgrim – Creative and Broadcaster
Roger Ball – Academic Researcher
Anonymous – Afghan Asylum Seeker
Jim (Not real name) – Bristol Anti-Fascists
Serena Sergeant – Avon & Somserset Police
Desmond Brown – Growing Futures CIC
Olivia Lamont Bishop – Borderlands Bristol
Maya Mate-Kole – Mwanzo Project

Producers: Marcus Smith & Miranda Rae
Sound Design: George Colwey
Photo Credit: Simon Holliday
Funding: Bristol City Council


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International Women’s Day 2026

Ujima Radio celebrates International Women’s Day 2026 with the Ujima Sisters Takeover, live on Sunday 8th March on 98FM and DAB in Bristol and worldwide online. For the 8th year in a row, Ujima Radio dedicates a full day of programming to women’s voices, stories and music.

This year’s theme is Connection and Common Ground — exploring what women can achieve together and their role in promoting peace. From 10AM to midnight, the Ujima Sisters Takeover brings together some of Bristol’s most inspiring women across music, poetry, journalism, film and activism.

10AM – 12PM The day opens with MĀDŁY, multi-lingual rapper, singer, songwriter and poet, ahead of the Seedling Sessions at Trinity Centre — celebrating women in music and the powerhouse women shaping Bristol’s local scene.

12PM – 2PM Ujima Sisters Lynn Mareno and Muneera Pilgrim take over the midday slot, celebrating International Women’s Day with their unique voices and perspectives.

2PM – 4PM The brand new Rhythm & Rhyme Show launches with singer Krush and poet Brink of Thought — a show that will continue every Tuesday 6–8PM on Ujima Radio.

4PM – 6PM Documentary Filmmaker and EDI Specialist Louise Ndibwirende alongside Ujima Sister Miranda Rae return for their second year to share their work in promoting peace and unity.

6PM – 8PM Journalist Dora the Reporter launches her new show The Scoop, which will continue every Saturday 10AM–12PM on Ujima Radio.

8PM – 10PM DJ Xcel — niece of Rita Marley and daughter of the iconic Rankin Miss P — delivers an exclusive all-female reggae mix, old and new.

10PM – Midnight DJ Elley Phunk closes the night with her signature blend of Breakbeat, UKG, Bass, House, Oldskool, Jungle and Techno. Expect uplifting vibes, deep grooves and serious rhythm.

Tune in on Sunday 8th March on 98FM & DAB in Bristol or stream worldwide at ujimaradio.com

#IWD2026 #InternationalWomensDay #UjimaRadio #BristolRadio #WomensDay #UjimaSisters

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Ujima Radio Powerplays March 2026!

Congratulations to this month’s successful March Powerplays 2026!

Every month Ujima Radio selects 10 of the very best tracks released in the West Country & Wales which then get featured twice an hour across our Primetime Shows including The Rise Up Breakfast Show Mon-Friday 8-10am and The Cruising Show Mon-Friday 4-6pm and the Urban Grooves Playouts.

Plus you can listen to all the 10 songs on the playlist below.

If you are an artist based in this area you could have your track featured on the Ujima Radio Powerplays.  All you have to do is send your track on MP3, make sure the lyrics are clean and conscious, include a headshot of yourself, your social media tags and if you are successful we will let  you know.

Email: info@ujimaradio.com

Put in the Subject bar “Powerplays”.

Good luck and keep listening to hear when your track gets picked!

Listen in Bristol on 98FM and DAB and worldwide online:

https://ujimaradio.com/

​Support and follow them online with their socials at the bottom of the page.

This month’s Powerplays are listed below and in no particular order:

 

Support and follow this months artists on their Instagrams:

@grime_m.o.b

@1heartz

@kilaze_amillionmindz

@thelastglimmerofhope

@impactmerv

@fireeyoung

@mrsambee

@thetiajoness

@augustofficialmusic

@blackoutja2020

@viceroys876

@cooziemellers

@rankingjoe1

@syv_says

@theyisgrove

@mcdizraeli

@oneway_uk

@maartelupdate

@harrietannablleward

@drdocmoody

@mrbjack1

@nubianqueenz_

@benjiwhytepatch

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Bristol 24/7 bring us a brand new Awards ceremony: Bristol Legends!

Bristol Legends: The Shortlist a brand new Awards Ceremony – Ujima are proud to be nominated!

Ujima Radio are incredibly proud to have been nominated as a Bristol Legend in the trailblazing new awards ceremony coming to Bristol this year and brought to us by independent news service Bristol 24/7.

Bristol Legends is a completely unique awards night and celebration dedicated to the people, organisations and charities that make our city so special. From community champions to inspiring local organisations, Bristol Legends is Bristol 24/7’s way of recognising the individuals shaping this place for the better, whilst bringing everyone together for one unforgettable evening.

Collating more than 1500 public nominations and their own personal favourites, our teams of expert panellists have finalised the shortlists for Bristol Legends 2026.

Each list aims to celebrate the incredible talents, organisations and communities that we have in Bristol, from sporting stars and innovative minds to musicians and artists making waves in their fields.

The winner of each category will be announced at our first-of-its-kind awards ceremony at Ashton Gate on March 6.

 

For more informaton head to Bristol 24/7 website.

 

Nominations below:

Music – sponsored by YTL

Other:

Youth Groups and projects:

Inclusive communities:

Activists:

Other:

Visual Arts

Artists:

Venues:

Exhibitions and Events:

Newcomer:

Arts leaders:

Performing Arts

Performer:

Newcomer:

Venue:

Event or Show:

Other:

Event:

Live Act/DJ:

Newcomer:

Venue:

Start-ups:

Innovation:

Business leaders:

Independent retailer:

Global impact:

Other:

Sport – sponsored by Exacta Technologies Ltd. 

 

Venues and facilities:

Sportsperson:

Sports team:

Newcomer:

Other:

Sustainability – sponsored by Bristol Waste

Nature and biodiversity:

Energy, home and transport:

Activists, campaigners and volunteers:

Other:

Food and Drink – sponsored by ViFi

Restaurants:

Pubs and bars:

Cafes:

Other:

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Ujima Radio Powerplays February 2026!

Congratulations to this month’s successful February Powerplays 2026!

Every month Ujima Radio selects 10 of the very best tracks released in the West Country & Wales which then get featured twice an hour across our Primetime Shows including The Rise Up Breakfast Show Mon-Friday 8-10am and The Cruising Show Mon-Friday 4-6pm and the Urban Grooves Playouts.

Plus you can listen to all the 10 songs on the playlist below.

If you are an artist based in this area you could have your track featured on the Ujima Radio Powerplays.  All you have to do is send your track on MP3, make sure the lyrics are clean and conscious, include a headshot of yourself, your social media tags and if you are successful we will let  you know.

Email: info@ujimaradio.com

Put in the Subject bar “Powerplays”.

Good luck and keep listening to hear when your track gets picked!

Listen in Bristol on 98FM and DAB and worldwide online:

https://ujimaradio.com/

​Support and follow them online with their socials at the bottom of the page.

This month’s Powerplays are listed below:

 

 

Support and follow this months artists on their Instagrams:

@raymightyy

@rudeyleemusic

@nxpanther 

@iam13e 

@consciousrappercommunity

@miss_mary_mina 

@louis_cardozo

@delocx

@jusnowmusic

@jusnowmusic

@eastonerecordings 

@eastone_records.uk

@kilaze_amillionmindz

#bristol #westcountry #wales #bristolmusic #powerplays #ujimaradio #emergingtalent #newmusic

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Ujima Radio 1st Powerplays of 2026!

Congratulations to this month’s successful January Powerplays 2026!

Every month Ujima Radio selects 10 of the very best tracks released in the West Country & Wales which then get featured twice an hour across our Primetime Shows including The Rise Up Breakfast Show Mon-Friday 8-10am and The Cruising Show Mon-Friday 4-6pm and the Urban Grooves Playouts. Plus you can listen to all the 10 songs on the playlist below.

If you are an artist based in this area you could have your track featured on the Ujima Radio Powerplays.  All you have to do is send your track on MP3, make sure the lyrics are clean and conscious, include a headshot of yourself, your social media tags and if you are successful we will let  you know.

Email: info@ujimaradio.com

Put in the Subject bar “Powerplays”.

Good luck and keep listening to hear when your track gets picked!

Listen in Bristol on 98FM and DAB and worldwide online:

https://ujimaradio.com/

​Support and follow them online with their socials at the bottom of the page.

This month’s Powerplays are listed below:

Support and follow this months artists on their Instagrams:

@ekto1

@sassi.eve

@horusmaximusmusic

@kaylakelleymusic

@ladynademusic

@code_red.uk

@djstylebig

@kilaze_amillionmindz

@eastone_records.uk

@jinxstajx

@sirbeansobe

@dafuchaman

@kwazi0117

@mastacheef_

@iammoyah

@donjaga737

#bristol #bristolmusic #ujimaradio #westcountry #wales #emergingtalent

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Kwanzaa

Ujima Radio celebrates!

Kwanzaa is the African cultural holiday Kwanzaa, it was created by professor and activist Maulana Karenga in 1966 during the Civil Rights Movement in America.  

Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday but is celebrated between 26th December to 1st January to highlight African heritage, community and family values.  

 

Kwanazaa is built around seven principles (Nguzo Saba), one for each day:  

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Umoja – Unity. 
  2. Kujichagulia – Self-determination. 
  3. Ujima – Collective work and responsibility. 
  4. Ujamaa – Cooperative economics. 
  5. Nia- Purpose. 
  6. Kuumba – Creativity. 
  7. Imani – Faith (confidence in community and the future).  

The holiday is celebrated by family and community gatherings, decorations inspired by African cultures, lighting the kinara which is a candle holder with seven candles, music, dancing, traditional foods, and reflection on the principles.  

At Ujima Radio 28th December is especially meaningful as the principle reflects that no one moves forward alone. We are a community that builds, uplifts, repair and grows together – we share responsibility for one another and for our community’s well-being, it is a principle of a shared purpose. We empower voices, community stories, and community action.  

So, on 28th December, as families gather around the world to light the third candle on the kinara, we celebrate with them. We appreciate the spirit of collective work, and we recognise everyone who contributes to the strength to our community- listeners, volunteers, creators, organisers and all of you readers.  

Kwanzaa teachers that our future is something we build together.  

Stay with us, because today Ujima radio is filled with music, stories and voices that reflect the spirit of Ujima. Together… we rise.  

 

Written by: Katie McCormick 

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Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum!

A dazzling festive experience awaits at Christmas at Westonbirt!

A truly magical experience!

 

Just a 40 minute drive from Bristol get ready for an unforgettable Christmas evening at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum. This magical after-dark trail returns for 2025 with brand-new lights, spectacular installations, and festive fun for the whole family!

 

Created by the award-winning producers behind Christmas at Kew, this is an  absolute must-see this festive season.

Wander through the illuminated arboretum, where twinkling lights bring the stunning setting to life. Marvel at the brand-new installations for 2025, including ‘Laser Lights’, ‘Mycelium Network’, ‘Fireworks Trees’ and ‘Wicker Animals’. Keep your eyes peeled for Father Christmas, as you can spot him on the trail!

Westonbirt Arboretum – Forestry of England have got everything you need for a magical night to remember including festive fairground rides.

on s
Events at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum .

Westonbirt Arboretum was established to protect trees and are committed to conservation, education and participation to help connect people with trees by supporting a wide range of activities at the arboretum. And it is truly a stunning & beautiful experience.

 

With accessibility facilities for disabled, young & old they have gone above and beyond to ensure everyone is welcome! Home to 2,500 different types of tree and shrubs from the far corners of the globe and 5 national tree collections, Westonbirt is the perfect place for you to escape, relax or have an adventure! You can even walk up amongst the tree tops with this incredible Tree Top Walkway, a perfect spot to catch the sunset!

Experience the serene beauty of Westonbirt in winter, where frosty landscapes and evergreen giants create a magical escape from the everyday.

From 5th November through to December 2025, families can join Stick Man for a magical winter adventure based on the beautiful picture book by Julia Donaldson. Josephine Lovelle, Marketing Manager at Forestry England, said: “Through interactive activities and seasonal discoveries, families can create special Christmas memories whilst learning about how trees and animals adapt to the colder months.”

To plan your visit search their website:

https://www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt-the-national-arboretum

#visitwest #WestonbirtArboretum #westcountry #visit

 

Photos by: Barney Congdon

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