At Margate Radio, we were all about amplifying the voices of our community. That’s why we were thrilled to launch Margate Voices—a series celebrating the unsung heroes who made our town shine.
Through 10 heartfelt radio interviews, we spotlighted individuals who volunteered their time and energy to uplift Margate. From mentors guiding our youth to artists weaving cultural tapestries, these were the stories that deserved the mic.
Edisode 4
FEATURING:
Eli Thompson
Building Community & Creativity
Eli Thompson is the driving force behind Westcoast Kent CIC, Olby’s Soul Café & Margate Soul Festival. Since 2001, Eli’s been at the heart of Margate’s creative and cultural scene, building spaces where community and creativity thrive.
We loved hearing about his voluntary work and the powerful impact of his vision for Thanet.
Margate Soul Fest: margatesoulfestival.co.uk
Edisode 3
FEATURING:
Phil Cartwright
Sport for all, no barriers
Phil Cartwright is the founder and head coach of Thanet Mustangs, a grassroots American Flag Football club breaking down barriers and creating a welcoming space for all ages and abilities in Margate.
We had a great chat about how sport can build confidence, community, and belonging, and we can’t wait for you to hear it.
Ross Walker
Creativity meets sustainability
We had a fantastic conversation with Ross Walker from Bon Volks, the creative studio transforming construction waste into opportunities for Margate’s community.
Through Circular Margate, Ross and the team are connecting surplus materials with local community projects that need them. So, if you work somewhere with leftover materials, or you’re part of a community organisation with a building project, get in touch at info@bonvolks.com.
Another amazing project spearheaded by Ross is The Swift Project — a community-led initiative using the return of Margate’s swift colony to spark important conversations around local biodiversity and sustainability.
You can support it through their crowdfunder here: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/bon-volks-swifts Ross’s passion for sustainability and social connection really shines through in his work. Can’t wait for you to hear all about his voluntary efforts to build a greener, more connected town.
Naimah Ouafi
Mentorship that changes lives
We have met with Naimah Ouafi, a mentor with Kent Refugee Action Network whose kindness and consistency are making a real difference in the life of a young asylum seeker in Margate.
Naimah has been volunteering with various charities since 2018 and has been fundraising over the past year to support a family in Gaza. Giving her time to causes close to her heart, especially those rooted in justice, compassion, and dignity, is something she feels deeply passionate about.
If you would like to support this family in Gaza, donate via https://gofund.me/456587ee
Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have through friendship and support.
Edisode 2
FEATURING:
Colin Welsh
Cycling for healing & joy
We loved catching up with Colin Welsh, founder of Community Cycles and Recovery Rides, whose inclusive, music-fuelled cycling sessions are bringing joy and healing to Thanet.
His work combining movement, nature, and community support is truly uplifting.
Joshua Piercey
Growing hope & green spaces
Our recent chat with Joshua Piercey, the passionate horticulturalist behind The Kitchen Garden, left us inspired. Created on behalf of The Perfect Place to Grow, the project transforms neglected land into thriving green spaces – creating real opportunities for local young people. We’re thrilled to share his story and his vision for a healthier, greener Margate.
Want to get involved? Find out more about volunteering:
https://theperfectplacetogrow.com/kitchen-garden-volunteering
Dario & Franca
Nourishing margate together
We loved chatting with Dario and Franca from 101 Social, who run the 101 Soup Kitchen every Sunday from 12–2pm in Cliftonville.
It’s a warm, welcoming space serving nourishing, zero-waste meals to the whole community, not just those who are struggling. They’re passionate about sharing surplus food from local supermarkets to reduce waste, and everyone is welcome, especially children who don’t get school meals, some even bring friends or take meals home so their parents can rest.
With a goal of raising £1 per meal (currently around 80p), donations help keep this vital service going and growing. The team also encourages donations of reusable takeaway containers and carrier bags to support their zero-waste mission.
Their commitment to community, dignity, and care truly shines through, and we’re excited to share their story with you.
Edisode 1
FEATURING:
Mandy & Scarlet
Quiet heroes of margate
Mandy Jarvis and Scarlet Drayson from Margate Women’s Institute, two incredible volunteers quietly transforming Margate’s neighbourhoods through their monthly litter picks. Their kindness, persistence, and community spirit are creating spaces where people can truly thrive. We’re so proud to share their story.
But that’s not all! This year, Margate WI is launching an important new campaign, Bystanders Can Be Lifesavers. Look out for them at community events as they raise awareness about the importance of knowing where your nearest defibrillator is.
Plus, their much-loved Christmas Fayre is returning to Dreamland this December! Makers, crafters, and vintage sellers. If you’d like a stall, reach out to them at margatewi@gmail.com.
Daiz
Creating safe spaces with trans club margate
Daiz, founder of Trans Club Margate, has created a vital, safe space for trans+ and non-binary people to connect, support, and celebrate together. Their story is one of resilience, joy, and community, and we’re honoured to share it with you.
Catch the brilliant Fight Club with Zara every Thursday at 6-7pm in Margate!
If you run a business or venue that would like to collaborate with Trans Club, reach out via Instagram: @transclubmargate
And don’t miss them speaking on the big stage at Margate Pride this year!
Rory Wait
Lighting the fire of community spirit
Our conversation with Rory Wait, founder of Wilderness to Wonderland, is full of hope and inspiration. Rory and his team are transforming neglected spaces into vibrant community gardens, igniting Margate’s spirit one flowerbed at a time.
We’re excited for you to hear about his voluntary work and community passion.
To find out more, search @wildernesstowonderland on social media or scan the QR codes in the gardens. You can also support their work by donating via JustGiving.