Former Radio and TV Presenter

Career:
Prior to my move to Hong Kong, I presented C2, and I also had my own music programme with BBC radio called 'Beks'. I've presented various television programmes including 'Meca', an arts programme for young people, 'Rolerama', a programme on roller blades for kids and 'Dan dy Drwyn' - a programme about drugs. I've done weekly items for the TV programme 'Heno' and occasional items for the football programme 'Gôl'.

Getting in:
I started out as a television researcher, then a radio reporter for various radio programmes. I also read the news on Radio Wales for years. I got my first break in radio when I had to take over from someone who was away on holiday. I had always been interested in the media and had studied a radio and television course while at university in London.

The job:
I present and produce my programme, which means I don't have anyone with me in the studio… it can get quite lonely sometimes! I operate the desk and research the programme by reading tons of music magazines and listening to new music. I select the music for the whole of the week on the Monday (i.e. draw up the running orders) after the new charts come out on Sundays. In terms of my television work, I'm usually responsible for preparing the briefs i.e. I determine what topics I'd like to discuss when interviewing celebrities like Mel C or Caprice.

Highlight:
One of the best things about my job is the freedom I have to do just about anything I want. I can choose what music to play – which I'm sure many people would love to be able to do. One of the best things about my television work is meeting celebrities – I've been fortunate enough to interview Mel C, Mel B, Martine McCutcheon, Billie and Caprice. For someone who's interested in pop and showbiz, I feel privileged to have these opportunities. It's also nice to get to know the person behind the 'name' and image portrayed on the screen or in magazines.

The low:
The worst thing that can happen is that a CD sticks or a technical hitch. It's also terrible to have a giggling fit live on air! This has happened to me many a time and I just have to fade out my voice and let the music take over. To be honest, I can’t think of anything bad about my job… I love it!

Tips from the top:
The only advice I'd have is to persevere. It's a very competitive business, but if you really want to go for it, don't be afraid to knock on every door until you knock on the right one for you. It might happen overnight – it might take many years.

What’s presenting like:
It's easy if you're comfortable with yourself and prepared to be completely honest in front of the camera. There's a great difference between acting and presenting – it's essential that you're natural when presenting and that your true personality shines through. If you can do that, then yes, presenting is easy.

Worst job:
I used to work in a Mexican restaurant while I was a student in London and I did sometimes hate being a waitress - the long hours, the greasy kitchen and the disgusting outfit we had to wear!

Schooldays:
I was an angel!