According to Gavin Arends, the station, which has partnered with the Cape Flats YMCA, will use its platform to inspire, inform and entertain the people of Mitchell’s Plain.

“It was a true 'yoh' moment when, after a stressful period of waiting and anticipation, we got the call that our frequency, 90.7FM was finally switched on. We started our first live broadcast on Friday, 14 December, unapologetic in our celebration of the Cape Flats," says Arends.

He adds, "The response from the community has been overwhelming, with support and good wishes from individuals and organisations alike. There is an air of expectation and anticipation for what this station could mean for our communities, especially the youth and the local economy. Many recognise that Mitchell’s Plain needs this – our own community radio station."

Arends says that the station – which is operating on a temporary license – has been broadcasting on its frequency 90.7fm without any reception issues. He adds that the signal is, however, strongest in Mitchell’s Plain – the station’s core footprint. Live online streaming is also available at www.yohradio.radiostream.co.za.

Arends says, "In order to deliver 'Everything the Cape Flats loves', all the content – from the topics discussed to the music and other programming elements – have been specifically developed with our core audiences in mind."

"To ensure that we bring our audiences what they want to hear on their radio station, we need them to get in touch with YOH Radio 90.7fm with a WhatsApp message or voice note to 082 0944 706 or email [email protected]."

The Breakfast Team broadcast daily from 06:00 to 09:00, with Gavin and the Angels. The team, joined by YouTuber Devdondidit, aim to keep the mood light, but energetic. According to the station, the 09:00 to 12:00 slots are saved for getting to know the community.

Candice Esben invites community members to arrange for an in-studio chat and Coffee with Candice every weekday at 11:00. Annie Okay takes over the Youth Hour from 15:00 to 16:00, while Wesley Moolman broadcasts from 15:00 to 18:00.

Arends says, "I get asked all the time – Why YOH Radio? What does 'yoh' mean? 'Yoh' is a word that is familiar to many on the Cape Flats and beyond. We use it all the time, mostly unconsciously, to express emotion – whether it's surprise, excitement or sadness – like no other. This is essentially where we want to connect with our audiences – on that emotional level."

Cape Flats YMCA director, Ricardo De Reuck, adds, "YOH Radio is not a coincidence. A lot of hard work, commitment and sacrifice went into making this happen. This partnership embodies everything that both Cape Flats YMCA and YOH Radio stands for."

"Not only does it demonstrate that working together for a common good can achieve great things, but it also shows that no matter where you come from or what your story is, if you believe in yourself and stay committed to your goals, you can achieve beyond your wildest dreams," adds De Reuck.

"Promoting community safety and overall upliftment is core to why we are doing this. This is why we are partnering with the Community Policing Forum and neighbourhood watch groups. We will be able to achieve a lot more, through a platform like YOH Radio 90.7fm," De Reuck says.

"To demonstrate to our audiences that we mean business, on Friday, 21 December, the station eased the festive stress for one lucky listener – with R5 000 in shopping vouchers – for finding the YOH Radio 90.7fm Father Christmas. And, we also had a lollipop drive to further introduce ourselves to our communities," concludes Arends.

For more information, visit www.yohradio.radiostream.co.za.