Former BBC radio presenter involved in programme which is ‘removing barriers and opening doors’ to young creatives

A former award-winning BBC radio presenter has been announced as one of the mentors for Birmingham’s Community Routes programme, to help emerging artists in the creative industries.

From next week Nikki Tapper MBE will be bringing more than 20 years of experience in broadcasting to inspire young creatives, many from diverse backgrounds as part of the multi-platform residency.

Community Routes is also designed to remove barriers that stop young people entering creative careers – particularly those who are developing their craft outside mainstream pathways.

Organised by Punch Records, the intensive week-long programme offers a new FREE programme packed with workshops, mentorship and a residency dedicated to equip the next generation of young creative professionals in the West Midlands with the skills and support that they need to thrive in the Creative Industries. It is particularly supporting the next wave of DJs, vocalists, broadcasters, photographers and digital artists.

A familiar voice on local radio for more than two decades, Nikki has fronted a host of regional shows, including Gospel Lounge, Chat Back and, more recently, Sunday Night With Nikki Tapper. She is now continuing to make a name for herself as an established events and awards host, trainer and facilitator through her company Nikki Tapper Ltd.

Last year she received an MBE for Services to Broadcasting and the Community of the West Midlands, recognising more than a quarter of a century working in both the broadcasting and teaching fields.

Nikki said: “I’m really excited to be a mentor and part of CR 2026. Young people are being given the opportunity to develop their creative skills while exploring entrepreneurship, enterprise, and the professional etiquette that helps them thrive — all alongside vital support around wellbeing and resilience.

“As someone who has worked for many years as a radio presenter, broadcaster and interviewer, I know how powerful it is when young people from diverse, global‑majority backgrounds are given space to grow. Too often, they don’t get the same access to opportunities within the creative industries – opportunities to build their own businesses, understand the professional landscape and develop at the same level, or even higher, than their peers.

“If I can come alongside a young person who can benefit from my experience and help them step confidently into their future, then I’m truly blessed to play a part. Community Routes is removing barriers and opening doors, and I’m proud to support that mission.”

Nikki will be delivering three one-to-one, teaching presenting, interviewing, and storytelling techniques while getting them hands-on with studio equipment. The sessions will provide guidance on soft skills essential for gaining a foothold in the radio broadcast industry and help them to build their professional, networking techniques, taking first steps towards building a strong professional network. She will also support the development of young artists’ resilience, self-reliance, and industry understanding.

The programme, which is supported by The National Lottery Fund, culminates, in Northampton on August 29^th, with The Shambala Festival.

Bradley Morrison, Head of Marketing and Communications at Punch Records, said: “Community Routes is a huge opportunity for aspiring creatives in Birmingham. The residency – if you’re one of the chosen ones on this year’s programme – is a chance to fast track your skills, learn from the best and hottest creatives in the industry and get noticed within your chosen industry. It is a major springboard for your career.”

For 2026, Community Routes participants will have the opportunity to take their work onto a major independent festival platform, with a paid performance opportunity at Shambala Festival 2026.

Find out more about Community Routes HERE.

Visit Nikki Tapper HERE.