Uganda’s search for its next radio stars came alive on March 19, 2026, as shortlisted contestants gathered at the Next Creatives Hub for the live auditions of Next Big Voice, an initiative by Next Media through its youth-focused station Next Radio.
From the afternoon into the evening, a steady stream of young creatives stepped up to the microphone, each bringing a distinct style, vocal identity, and presence.
The auditions offered more than performance—it was a test of personality, spontaneity, and the ability to command attention in a medium where voice alone carries the experience.
Participants were tasked with presenting, introducing segments, and engaging an imagined audience, simulating the demands of live radio.
While some leaned into humour and storytelling, others showcased polished delivery and strong command of language, reflecting the varied influences shaping Uganda’s next generation of broadcasters.
Overseeing the process was a panel that blended entertainment, performance, and media expertise.
Comedian Patrick Salvado Idringi, actress and media personality Cleopatra Koheirwe, and broadcast professional Mitch Egwang listened closely to each audition, assessing clarity, confidence, originality, and audience connection.
Their feedback, at times direct and instructive, underscored the realities of modern radio—where technical skill must meet authenticity, and where presenters are expected to build communities, not just deliver content.
The journey to the live auditions began online, when Next Radio called on aspiring presenters across the country to submit short recordings.
The response, according to organizers, was overwhelming, pointing to a growing appetite among young Ugandans to break into media through non-traditional entry points.
Next Big Voice is part of a broader shift within Uganda’s media landscape, where legacy pathways are increasingly being complemented by open calls, digital submissions, and talent incubators.
For Next Media, the initiative also aligns with its strategy of cultivating in-house talent that reflects the energy and diversity of its audience.
By the close of auditions, what stood out was not just competition, but possibility. The voices heard throughout the day carried different accents, rhythms, and perspectives, hinting at a future radio space that is more representative, experimental, and youth-driven.
As the selection process moves to its next phase, the focus will narrow to those who can translate raw potential into consistent on-air performance.
But even at this stage, Next Big Voice has already achieved something significant—it has opened the studio doors and, in doing so, amplified a generation ready to be heard.
