From his time as a Cape York Leaders Program (CYLP) scholar to writing news bulletins for Indigenous radio, Chasten Yeatman is building a future in media while supporting the next generation of CYLP students.
The CYLP alumnus has taken up an internship as a junior journalist with the National Indigenous Radio Service (NIRS), writing news bulletins broadcast on Triple A 98.9FM.
For Chasten, the opportunity brings together his interests in journalism, storytelling and sharing information with audiences across the country.
“I love that I can provide information to mob all over the country who tune in,” Chasten said.
His interest in radio developed while he was still at school in Brisbane at Brisbane Boys College (BBC). He completed a Certificate III course with Triple A during high school, and the station later approached him about an internship with NIRS.
Chasten is also studying a Bachelor of Fine Arts, majoring in film and new media. Passionate about how stories are told through broadcasting and film, he hopes the experience at NIRS will help him develop his skills and pursue a career in journalism.
Alongside working towards his own goals, Chasten has chosen to give back to young people following a path he knows well.
Having gone through CYLP himself, he now works with students at BBC, including young people from communities who are part of the program. He chose to return to the school in appreciation of the support he received during his education.
“I truly want to see them succeed in their education and go on to achieve their goals,” Chasten said.
Chasten knows what it is like to live away from home and attend a large school. Current students often ask him about his school experiences and what life is like after graduation. He welcomes the chance to share what he has learned and help where he can, whether with school or personal matters.
Balancing tutoring with after-hours university classes has not always been easy. After reworking his schedule, he found a better balance between study and work. With university finished for the year, he has been able to take on the NIRS internship.
As Chasten builds experience in radio and works towards completing his degree, he continues to share his experiences with other CYLP scholars preparing for their own next steps beyond school.
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