Black History Lewisham 365: October 2022 profiles - Stella Headley

For the second in the series, we spoke to Stella Headley, founder of First Love Community Radio.

Tell us about your radio station

We set up First Love Community Radio in 1992. It was born of a desire to provide great music and to uplift Black communities here in Lewisham. I got involved because – as a young, single mum living in a Lewisham hostel – I felt very alone. Radio was the one thing that made me feel connected with the outside world. I wanted to help other people who found themselves in a similar situation.

Back in the early days, we broadcasted from a unit in Brockley Business Centre. We wanted to be an open door to all those people in the local community who felt isolated – we also wanted to promote health, cohesion, wellbeing and provide a safe space for seldom heard voices. As a legacy it’s just as relevant today as it was 30 years ago so it’s great to be back on the air waves this October.

What are First Love Community Radio’s greatest achievements?

Some years ago we established a Higher National Certificate in Radio Journalism and Production which was delivered in partnership with Lewisham College. It was a springboard for many of our volunteers who went on to get qualifications and have successful careers in radio, TV and elsewhere in the media. Seeing local people flourish as they learn new skills and go on to achieve their full potential makes us so happy.

Beyond that, it's been fantastic to hear from listeners who have benefited from tuning in. At one point Clive Phillips presented a programme for us called Hard Work, in association with the Job Centre, and we basically read out live jobs on air. We ran it for a four week period and helped six local people find employment. How fantastic is that?

Why do you think it’s important to celebrate Black History here in Lewisham?

I agree with the Council that Black stories and achievements should be celebrated all year round. Our plan originally was to run the radio station in August as there’s always so much going in October. Although I think Black History Month is a good thing, it can get quite intense! Everything seems to happen at the same time which means you miss out on a lot. But, having said that, so much fantastic learning takes place and it’s a great time to showcase and share Black excellence with the wider community. That can only be a positive!

This year’s theme for Black History Month is Time For Change: Action Not Words – what does that mean to you?

There is a Rastafari saying about words without works – basically empty words. First Love has always been focussed on action and offering solutions. Early on, it became clear that the radio station was about more than music. It was about empowering ourselves and those around us. It has provided so many opportunities for people to progress – from learning to build a studio; to training in news reporting, researching, and presenting and the list goes on - there was something for everyone at every level.

What’s the most important piece of advice you’ve been given?

There are two things. I was once told that whatever you put out there into the universe will eventually return to you, so be very careful and specific what you ask for and how you treat other.

The other is simple but profound. I was having a conversation with Jah Shaka, a well-known sound system creator from Lewisham and he said, "Just show love and kindness, it has no colour or politics." It’s true, isn’t it? That really stuck with me and is what I practice.

Who are your biggest heroes?

My mother, Jasmay Evadney Headley; my two daughters, Marney and Chi; and my grandchildren who all inspire me every single day. They are strong, loving, kind and extremely resilient. As a Rastafari, I of course, put my faith in His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Haile Selassie I and Empress Menen I – who did so much to modernise Ethiopia. Please look them both up, they spoke wise words.

We spoke to Stella in October 2022.

First Love Community Radio is supported by Lewisham Homes this Black History Month. Tune into Mixcloud from 12pm-12am on Saturdays and Sundays throughout October to listen live or listen on-demand at any time.