Geeta Uppal honoured with long-service award from Unity 101 Radio

Geeta has been involved with Unity 101 (previously Unity24) since 2002 and, in 2021, began hosting the station’s monthly Community Hour as part of Solent’s ongoing partnership with the station. The award recognises her exceptional commitment and contribution to the station and the wider Southampton community.

Unity 101 is an Asian and Ethnic community radio station with a long-standing relationship with Southampton Solent University. The partnership supports the University’s access and widening participation agenda, while also providing students with valuable real-world learning opportunities that enrich their academic experience and strengthen their connection to the city.

In her role at Solent, Geeta works within the University’s widening participation team, where she leads outreach activities with schools and colleges. Her work focuses on raising awareness of higher education and showcasing the opportunities a university education can provide for people across the local community.

Professor Cathy Barnes, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, Academic Strategy and Planning at Southampton Solent University, said:

“We are incredibly proud of Geeta and the impact of her work, both at the University and within the wider community. Her long-standing commitment to Unity 101 reflects Solent’s values of inclusion, opportunity and civic engagement. Geeta’s dedication exemplifies how meaningful partnerships can help inspire local communities and open doors to education.”

Ram Kalyan, Station Manager at Unity 101, added:

“Unity 101 has built strong and meaningful partnerships with many organisations, and Southampton Solent University is a valued example. Over the years, we have grown together, developing a relationship that continues to strengthen and evolve. This partnership plays a vital role in helping us realise our potential within the community. With a shared commitment to serving the public through entertainment, education, and information, we are proud to continue this collaboration for many years to come.

“Geeta has been a dedicated volunteer almost since the very beginning of Unity 101. Throughout her time with the station, she has played an important role in bringing the community together through radio. Her attention to detail, unwavering commitment, and genuine passion are exceptional, and we were honoured to recognise her contributions with a long-service award. We sincerely hope this invaluable journey continues for many years to come and are deeply grateful to Geeta, who along with our team of volunteers truly form the heart of the Unity 101 family.”

To find out more about Southampton Solent University’s work with communities across the region, visit: www.solent.ac.uk/engage-with-us/community.