About AYR 98.9 FM

Alternative Youth Radio

Founded in 2016, Alternative Youth Radio (AYR) is a community-driven radio station based in Zorzor, Lofa County, Liberia. With a mission to empower youth, amplify community voices, and address local challenges, AYR has become a trusted source of information and a catalyst for social change. Broadcasting to over 25,000 listeners daily, the station serves as a platform for education, advocacy, and development in Lofa County and beyond.

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Vision

A future where every young person in Liberia’s rural communities is heard, informed, and empowered to lead through the power of youth-led media.

Mission

Alternative Youth Radio (AYR) empowers young people in Liberia’s rural communities through innovative, youth-led media. We amplify their voices, spark creativity, and equip them to lead positive change.

Core values

  • Integrity: Upholding honesty and ethical standards in all operations.
  • Empowerment: Equipping youth and communities with tools for self-advocacy and growth.
  • Innovation: Embracing technology and creativity to deliver transformative services.
  • Inclusivity: Ensuring representation and opportunities for marginalized voices.
  • Sustainability: Prioritizing long-term impact through eco-friendly and financially sound practices.

Partnerships and Affiliations

AYR is proud to be affiliated with prominent organizations that strengthen its mission:

Internews Liberia

Internews-Liberia

AYR is one of the current community Radio partners in the implementation of the USAID Media Activity project through Internews-Liberia.

Lonestar Cell - MTN

Lone Star MTN

Lone Star MTN currently provides AYR 5ahm electricity to to power its major FM transmitter up the telecommunications tower. This partnership has existed since 2016

NAYMONTE - Partners for Democratic Development

NAYMOTE

Enhancing public understanding of democratic processes and citizens participation in governance and public accountability

Association of Liberia Community Radio - ALICOR

Association of Liberia Community Radios (ALICOR)

Partnering to enhance community-based media across Liberia.

Liberia Revenue Authority

Liberia Revenue Authority

LRA partners with AYR in the creation of tax awareness to ensure compliance to Liberia’s tax system

Voice of Africa

Voice of America (VOA)

Collaborated on training programs, including mobile journalism and digital reporting.

West Africa Democracy Radio (WADR

West Africa Democracy Radio (WADR)

Partnered to promote democracy and good governance through impactful programming.

Press Union of Liberia (PUL):

Press Union of Liberia (PUL)

Upholding honesty and ethical standards in all operations.

Femal Journalists Association of Liberia - FeJAL

female Journalists Association of Liberia

AYR is a member station to the Female Journalists Association of Liberia(FEJAL) through its individual female staff.

Key Achievements

  • Media Complex Dedication: In May 2023, AYR dedicated its state-of-the-art media complex, a 55-by-40-foot facility valued at over $50,000. The complex includes two studios, offices, a conference room, and a welcoming lobby, enhancing AYR’s capacity to serve the community.
  • Solar Energy Installation: Through a USAID-funded project by INTERNEWS-Liberia, AYR installed a 5-kilowatt solar system in 2023, reducing fuel costs and promoting environmental sustainability.
  • 24/7 Broadcasting: Expanded to round-the-clock programming, reaching hard-to-reach communities and increasing listenership.
  • Stationery and Printing Services: Launched in April 2024 as a revenue-generating subsidiary, contributing 10.37% to annual revenue.
  • School of Journalism and Vocational Education: Commenced construction in 2024, aiming to train over 15,000 rural residents by 2027.

Programming & Community Engagement

AYR’s programming addresses critical issues such as education, health, governance, agriculture, and youth empowerment. Key programs include:

  • Critical Talk: Fostering discussions on pressing national issues.
  • Health Talk: Addressing rural health challenges with practical solutions.
  • Girls Education: Promoting gender equality and empowering young women.
  • Democracy by Radio: Enhancing public understanding of democratic processes in partnership with NAYMOTE-Liberia.

Training and Capacity Building

AYR invests in its team through in-service and external training programs:

  • Voice of America (VOA): Mobile journalism training for staff, focusing on digital reporting.
  • CEMESP Investigative Journalism Fellowship: Training on gender-based violence reporting.
  • INTERNEWS-Liberia: Workshops on election reporting and combating misinformation.

Partnerships

  • Lone Star/MTN: Provides 24/7 electricity for the primary transmitting facility in exchange for airtime and promotional services.
  • USAID Media Activity Project: Supports capacity building, equipment, and infrastructure improvements.
  • Democracy International and Sister Aid Liberia: Collaborated on democracy and governance programming during the 2023 elections.

Future Plans

Looking ahead to 2025, AYR aims to:

  • Complete the School of Journalism and Vocational Education.
  • Expand its reach to over 30,000 daily listeners.
  • Strengthen financial sustainability through diversified revenue streams.
  • Upgrade production studios with cutting-edge equipment.

AYR Annual Report Downloads

Download AYR’s Annual Report – A comprehensive overview of our milestones, financial performance, and strategic goals. Find key insights, impactful achievements, and our vision for sustainable growth. Stay informed and see how we’re shaping the future of media in rural Liberia and how you can partner with us.

1

2024 Annual Report

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2

2023 Annual Report

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3

2022 Annual Report

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