Each month we talk to the people responsible for helping make our region thrive and prosper to find out more about their role, hopes and dreams and what makes them tick. This month it’s broadcaster Nikki Tapper MBE from Smethwick

BEEN THERE, DONE THAT

Born to parents from Jamaica, I grew up in West Bromwich and Quinton in a household of music and no TV, just the radio! Listening especially to BBC Radio 4 became a real love. My love for soul/gospel music grew from there and going on to play it through my radio shows, was a real bonus. I also became very community-minded with Birmingham Association of Youth Clubs, Girl Guides and local Sunday School activities throughout my younger life. After university, teaching became my career – from lecturing in further education college to being a head in a PRU centre. I also became a radio broadcaster on Galaxy 102.2, then had a call from BBC WM & CWR and asked to present the gospel music show in March 2003. I juggled presenting my show on Sunday nights, with being a mum and wife, teaching, hosting events, speaking in the community and, seven years ago, set up my own company, Nikki Tapper Events.

IT’S WHAT I DO

I continue to deliver training and support to young people embarking on their career path or studies, present on radio voluntarily and host podcasts and events. I like to be a champion in the community, especially for women and younger people whose lives are full of hurdles that they think can’t be overcome. 

BIGGEST SUCCESS

Professionally, hosting two key Archers events at BBC Birmingham and being an Archers tour guide – I’m a massive Archers fan! Also interviewing the first black TV presenter on ITV in the late 60s/70s, Barbara Blake Hannah, co-hosting on the red carpet of Peaky Blinders’ final TV series on Broad Street and, last October, receiving the MBE for Services to Broadcasting and the Community from Prince William. Personally, being married for over 30 years to my husband, Norval and being a mum to Olivia, our daughter.

BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED

To follow my dreams earlier in life and save money!! 

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT BRUM

The warmth and cultural ethnic mix of Brummies has always meant a lot to me. And the beauty of Piccadilly Arcade, off New Street. Even though many of the original shops I’ve grown up with have gone, its architectural design still feels magical. The addition of Ozzie the Bull in New Street Station reminds me how proud I was to have the Commonwealth Games in our city in 2022.

DOWNTIME

I am a patron of Edward’s Trust, an incredible charity which provides free, specialist bereavement support for parents, children and young people. I also support the Jamaica Hospital Appeal fund founded by Erma Lewis BEM after Jamaica was devastated by Hurricane Gilbert in 1988. It not only supports an orphanage and children’s hospital in Jamaica but here, in Birmingham comes alongside carers and those in need of wheelchairs. To relax I love watching Call the Midwife and Death in Paradise and enjoy most sports, particularly football, as well as dancing.