Dreams are easy to visualise, but are often difficult to materialise.
The key is staying focus and such focus now got long time radio man John Adifaka Junior in a ‘launch mode’.
Adifaka now prepares to launch his new radio station – the newest addition to the existing commercial radio FM stations.
Now hitting the airwaves on trial basis in preparation for its launch, Barava FM broadcasting on 104.1 is set to be launched on July 1.
The Sunday Star was privileged to meet up with the crew of the newest Classic FM Radio Station in the country, who are hard at work preparing for their launching two weeks from now, on July 1.
Managing Director, who will also be the breakfast anchor man and a long time renowned radio voice, Adifaka Junior said they are critically running against time in preparation for the launch.
“But at the moment, Barava FM is already on air on trial basis in a lead up towards the launching,” Adifaka said.
Barava FM targets the mature age group with classic and gold music on FM frequency 104.1.
The Sunday Star spoke to Adifaka about his motivation and how his plan comes to fruition.
The long time radio man and musician said in late 1999, he conceived the idea of owning a radio station.
“This was when I was still with Solomon Star’s Paoa FM. This thought of having my own radio station that broadcasts the golden music I grew up with and loved, started to sink in deep and grow inside of me.
“Obviously, it’s easy to dream but achieving the dream is another thing,” he said.
The man, whose radio programs with the famous Nati Hatsoa started gaining fame when they were still with Paoa FM, knew it was time to take the initial steps.
“Nothing is difficult if one stays focused and committed.
“So in 2009, my contract with Paoa FM lapsed and that was it. With the leave pay and some little savings, I started what I love to do.”
This was when Big Maos Production Haus was born.
Adifaka registered the business – a sole proprietor engaged in producing radio adverts and programs for clients.
He said the seed slowly started to germinate from then on.
The production company was used as a launching pad to slowly build towards the dream of owning a radio station.
“From 2013, I slowly started to source equipments for the radio station bit by bit.
“It takes time and sailing through rough waters. Those who started small and been through the hurdles of starting something up, will agree that in order to achieve goals and dreams, there would be sacrifices and challenges faced.
“The challenges are never ending and will always be faced, but they are there not to deter you from your focus.
“As I have said, it wasn’t a smooth sailing and it is not going to be, but we’re glad we got this far,” he said.
In the recent weeks, Adifaka and his little crew did a lot of running around to prepare the new FM radio station for its launch.
They successfully hooked it up on air and is now attracting widespread following even though it is still on trial, because of the music choice.
When the Sunday Star asked him about what to expect from Barava FM, Mr Adifaka said the radio station is ready to commence and has its own target audience.
“Now, everything has been set-up and ready to officially hit the airwaves when it is launched on the 1st of July,” Adifaka said.
“After the launching, the actual work will commence. Barava FM started a test broadcast on its 104.1 frequency two weeks ago and it got the whole town talking, which to me is a good feedback.
“I am glad people like it.
“Barava FM is a classic radio station which will be playing classics and hits & favourites from the 70’s to the early 90’s.
“Our target audiences are 35 to 65 year-olds. They grew up in this era and they know their music.
“In fact they are more in love with their music now more than ever. These are working people with buying power.”
By LESLEY SANGA
