We caught up with Nick O’Keeffe (North, 2007-2012) to hear about his fabulous global adventures and how he has managed to land in a job where he spends his days chatting to a mate about whatever he wants and playing whatever music he likes!
What was the best bit about your global adventure?
To choose from so many incredible places and experiences is almost impossible, but I have to say New Zealand. It is the most stunningly beautiful place and only country I have ever visited where one minute you can be in a sub-tropical rainforest, the next on a pristine white beach, the next on a massive glacier, the next in an enormous fjord. The Maori culture is fascinating, and the people themselves are so friendly and welcoming. There is actually too much to do in New Zealand.
You settled in Sydney for a while, what kept you there… and what brought you back?
Sydney is a fantastic city buzzing with atmosphere and opportunity. In the summer there is always something going on, be it boat parties on the harbour, or day festivals, or street parties. And the beaches and surfing are amazing! The money is fantastic and it does give you the chance to build a life out there. I came home solely because I realised that I belong here and nothing could ever change that.
Any advice for budding Cranleigh globetrotters?
Get out of here and go see as much of the world as you can! University is great fun, and working is fun, but you’re going to do that forever. So go and expand your mind, put some miles on your soul, and escape from real life for a few years. My website gives great information for anyone looking to go. www.arcanemedia.co.uk
Are you enjoying the radio experience?
I never knew it was possible to have so much fun at work, unless you’re a footballer or actor. But at Wandsworth Radio (now Riverside Radio) I get to spend my working hours chatting with a mate about whatever we want and play whatever music we like. As long as we allow adverts to run then we have free reign over our show. And the response we get from the public is fantastic which makes it all the better. It’s also very interesting being a broadcast journalist for the station, creating bulletins and sometimes reporting from the scene of an incident.
Would you encourage others to volunteer in the industry?
If you are serious about a career in broadcast journalism then volunteer radio work is a fantastic way to get involved. All great presenters at some point started in either community, hospital, or university radio and if you stick at it you can start down a really exciting path.
Any plans to combine film-making and presenting?
I will eventually try and get back into film once I have established myself in the media industry if I feel like it might be worth it, but if I’m loving my job then I’ll probably just put that on ice for a while. I am however trying out for voice over roles in advertising and documentaries.
Your favourite memory of Cranleigh?
I have amazing memories from Cranleigh but the one that makes me smile the most was the Upper Sixth Leavers Ball. I remember Reverend Parker’s chapel address was hysterical, and the whole evening of reminiscing and celebrating was fantastic. I do have to mention how much Gerald would brighten the day when he gave you your first “Alright lads” of many that day.