THE thing I hate about Mondays is that it aggravates me to go to work when I don’t really want to. Then there’s Tuesday, Monday’s ugly sister; and the week continues with my mother’s award-winning question: “Who are you featuring this week? You know that girl ‘Surida’ on RGI’s 89.5 FM? I like her! Her voice is AMAZING! Call her up!”

You got your wish mom, and to those fans of Surida Nagreadi’s show, grab a snack and stay tuned to this page as we explore Surida’s world!
Born in Venezuela, but having spent her entire childhood in Essequibo and later experiencing the wonders of the West Coast of Demerara, Surida has managed to build an ideal foundation of her personality – her ability to relate to everyone from all walks of life.

Growing up among three other siblings, Surida enjoyed fishing in trenches and relishing the 90s’ rural number one dish of milk and rice and the famous coconut mixed with sugar in its shell!

She would also tag along with her grandmother to help her make coconut oil, even though her only motive was to get the ‘chanchee’ left over from making the coconut oil.

Entering her early adolescent stage, Surida developed a passion for classical dancing at one point, but then, like most girls, diverted to “playing dress up” in her room. Not once did she recognise in herself the potential to be both a radio manager and a radio announcer simultaneously, until someone else did.

“Many years ago, I was probably around 13 years old, I was sitting on my bed reading a text book out loud. Several minutes into my reading, my grandfather came to the door and said “Annie, is that you?”

I replied, “Yes Grandpa”
He said, “Wow! You’re reading so well I thought it was the television.”

There came a broad smile, and I said, “Thank you, Grandpa”.

“I don’t think my Grandfather realised how much that statement inspired me. From that day, I wanted to become a better reader and speaker”.

Little did she know she was unconsciously preparing herself for such a career in the media by impromptu speeches, debates, and other outspoken activities. Her ‘This is it’ moment came when she first heard herself on Radio on her audition day. Amazed at her very own voice, she began questioning the reality of it, only to receive exceptional yet praiseworthy comments from persons around. Thereafter, she realised this is where she fit in, what she does best; and, most of all, where she feels satisfied.

Being a Radio Announcer has impacted Surida’s life dynamically. She is able to reach out to people, sharing positive content whilst inspiring and motivating them. Public speaking is no longer a fear of hers, as she is more confident in the way she speaks and delivers herself. It has also allowed her to constantly develop herself, since she intends to be a good leader/motivator for her staff.

“I am able to share whatever knowledge I have through inspirational messages to my listeners, and also to generate happiness through music,” a beaming Surida says.

After a stellar performance at school, she pursued a Degree in International Relations at the University of Guyana, and graduated at the age of 20. At that point she determined that the Media, Project Management and Marketing would be her prime areas of interest. But apart from those, she hopes one day to fulfill her early dream of being a Criminal Lawyer.

Holding a great adoration for Dr Rovin Deodat, this spectacular soul has secretly made him her mentor whilst growing up watching his debating programmes.

“When I was much smaller, there were many times I tried speaking like him (got caught many times speaking to myself in his tone). He has somewhat inspired me for wanting to speak well. Hopefully, one day – and soon too – I will meet him to thank him for being an exceptional role model,” noted Surida in high spirits.

Apart from being a radio announcer and manager, and assisting in marketing for the Guyana Times Media Group of Companies, Surida has had the privilege of being largely involved with the Limacol CPL T20 Tournament for two consecutive years. Last year she was Coordinator for the Limacol Ambassadors and Amazon Warriors Energy Promoters. This year however, she will be Coordinating the Cheerleaders for the Guyana leg of the games!

“This is a great opportunity which allows me to develop on my Project Management skills and at the same time be a part of the biggest party in Sport!” Surida has said.

It is evident that this gem of a person is gradually growing into an entrepreneur. Radio, she says, is taking Guyana by storm; and, for this reason, she believes it should be used in a positive way, since it can be used as a medium for many things, such as connecting people worldwide; medium for culture; inspirational messages; marketing; and building and exposing local talent.

“In recognising the importance that Radio now plays in our society. It becomes imperative for us to constantly step up our game, ensure content is developed and increased ever so often, and further ensuring that your announcers are constantly trained for personal development and better broadcasting. These are a few of the first steps that we can take in contributing to our Radio Industry,” Surida disclosed.
Her main show is ‘Locked In with Surida Nagreadi’, which airs from Monday to Saturday between the hours of 2pm – 6pm. During that time, she would host a sponsored programme known as the ‘DSL Afternoon Flow’, while on Sundays she airs a religious programme known as ‘Bhakti Sangeet’ from 8am – 9am.

She is currently finalising a number of programmes/shows for the Radio Guyana Inc. (RGI) radio station so that her very listeners can expect a lot in the weeks to come!

“I am able to share whatever knowledge I have through inspirational messages to my listeners, and also to generate happiness through music” – Surida

By Shivanie Sugrim