Brenda ‘Raquel’ Thomas

bb: Hello Raquel, let’s start with how old are you?!

BT: I am 38 years old.

bb: what is your background?

BT: I was born in New York, but came to Barbuda as a baby. I attended the Holy Trinity School until I was 7 or 8 years old, when I returned to the USA where I finished my education. I worked in the entertainment industry in the USA for Fox and ABC. I did voice overs, managed a recording studio, worked in Nickelodeon, and was involved in media administration.

bb: what is your job description

BT: For 2 years I have been the Barbuda correspondent for the Observer local radio station. This station is at FM 91.1 and can be accessed on the Internet with Windows Media Player or similar software.

bb: how did you get into this?

BT: I was recommended after working for the ZDK radio station in Antigua for 2 years.

bb: What does your job involve?

BT: I have a live slot from 6.30 am to 6.45 am on Monday to Friday. I keep listeners informed of current news in Barbuda relating to politics and community affairs generally.

bb: what qualifications or skills does one need?

BT: A broadcaster has to be well spoken and have experience in the media. Attendance at workshops in writing or a degree in journalism would be helpful.

bb: Thank you Raquel, we wish you well for the future.