A CONNECTION between a community and hospital radio station and a presidential reception would appear to be tenuous at best, but it can happen.

On March 10, Richard Edoki - CHBN volunteer and presenter of Sunday’s African Vibe show - attended a reception at Tate Modern in London, in connection with the UK-Nigeria state visit at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy.

Richard met President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as the Nigerian Minister of Defence and the president of the Nigerian Senate, officials connected to the High Commission and individuals working in cultural promotion between the UK and Nigeria.

“I was genuinely surprised and honoured to be invited among thousands of Nigerians living in the UK,” he said. “It's not something you expect when you're working behind the mic in a community radio setting.

"It was an incredible experience to represent our local community on such a significant platform. It shows no matter where you are, your work can have a far-reaching impact. I left the event feeling inspired and even more committed to using my platform to connect cultures and amplify positive stories within our community."

In African Vibe, Richard discusses African culture - food, music, dress, language and more. He aims to bring a sense of shared community to African people studying and working in Cornwall, and their Cornish contemporaries.

Richard worked in radio and TV stations in his native Nigeria, in different roles ranging from producer, presenter and reporter to all the different administrative functions that keep any show on the road. Upon settling in Cornwall, he was keen to bring his expertise to a similar workplace on a voluntary basis.

Readers can tune into CHBN on 100.8 FM or visit www.chbnradio.org. Alternatively, download the CHBN app or ask your smart speaker to ‘listen to CHBN Radio’.