Today we’d like to introduce you to Maggie Tra.
Hi Maggie , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was living in Hanoi for a few years, within that time I started a female and non-binary dj collective Syster Sounds but I felt like I wanted to give back more to the community. So I started teaching myself and talking to other online radio stations on how to run a community radio. That’s kind of how Hanoi Community Radio was born. My ancestry is Khmer/Viet but I was born and raised in Sydney, Australia. So it meant a lot to me yo be able to create this for the community. I’m a DJ and a music producer and I really wanted to see the arts and music scene feel more connected. So HCR was my solution to that.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There’s definitely been moments of ease and also difficulty. It’s the first online radio station in Vietnam so introducing that concept was really hard. In saying that, I’ve got a great time who help and believe in HCR, so if we can help one local to get into their journey into podcasting or music then I feel like we’ve made progress.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My name is Maggie Tra and I’m a DJ and a music producer. As an artist I’ve been able to achieve some beautiful things, I’ve realised 3 albums now and have toured across Asia and Europe. Alongside founding Hanoi Community Radio I’ve also got my female and non-binary DJ collective Syster Sounds. I didn’t grow up with a lot of support, so having these communities and building a space for others helps me in my own journey of giving back and providing me with joy and purpose.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Honestly, it would be to just do it. If you’re someone who’s talking about doing something for a long time, then it’s time to put it into action. Those who don’t ask, don’t get. That’s the biggest difference between what each creative is able to get and why. I know it’s tough, but I promise it’s worth it. Each step is progress.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hanoicommunityradio.com
- Instagram: Hanoicommunityradio
Image Credits
Freddy Morales
