Popular radio presenter Vallisa Chauhan has fulfilled a lifelong ambition after being headhunted by the BBC.
Here she tells us about her success and passion for broadcasting – something she likens to ‘an addiction’.
Vallisa Chauhan is known for her upbeat energy on air, as well as her bubbly and infectious personality. When Pukaar speaks to her, she is happier than ever having completed her first week as a presenter on the BBC’s Asian Network.
For the 35 year-old, it’s been a lifelong dream to work for the broadcaster – the pinnacle of her 13-year career, which has included stints at Buzz Asia, Sunrise and most recently, Lyca Radio.
“The BBC was somewhere that I’d always aspired to get to, but wasn’t sure if and when it would come,” she said. “There have been times when I’ve knocked on the door and I haven’t got in, but this time it was interesting, because I didn’t go looking for the job – they came to me.
“It was suddenly like ‘wow’ – a massive opportunity…”
Vallisa was headhunted by the BBC thanks to her huge success and popularity on Lyca Radio over the past three years. The breakfast show she presented was the station’s most popular fixture – pulling in an incredible 50,000 weekly listeners.
Her success was rewarded with three awards, including ‘Radio Show of the Year’ at the Asian Media Awards.
Listeners are attracted to the presenter’s personable style – her bubbly banter and impeccable choice in music, which includes Bollywood, Bangra and Urban Asian. She has interviewed some of the biggest names across Asian music.
“ I’ve been a talker for the whole of my life – I talk a bit too much! In fact, if you ever met my uncle he would tell you that since I was a child he’s ”been trying to find ways to make me stop!
“I’ve got this thing where I’m very real on the radio. I like to share stuff that actually happens in my life and I don’t like to put a fake covering over it,” she went on to reveal.
“I think I’ve become very relatable to people. They feel like I’m a friend and that’s what I want. My listeners are like my extended family and for many, I’m often the first voice they hear in the morning. It’s my job to make sure I give them the best start to their day come rain or shine.”
Vallisa is devoted to her role as a radio presenter, even going as far as to liken it to ‘an addiction.’
“When those messages are coming in and people are saying ‘good morning – we’re loving the show’ or they’re getting in touch with the answer for a question, it sort of gives you that adrenaline rush – that feeling of ‘oh my God, people are actually enjoying what I’m doing,’ she explained.
“When I’d take a holiday, I’d be itching to go back. I love radio and can’t see a point in my life without it. It’s a bit like a drug – you can get addicted!”
Catch Vallisa on BBC Asian Network between 11-3 on Saturdays and 9-11 on Sunday evenings.
