BY JOY OFASIA
CHERYL Bera, a senior broadcaster with the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation, is making waves by winning the Production Award at the Media Excellence Awards 2024.
With her keen eye for detail and a firm passion for storytelling, Cheryl has become a vital force behind the scenes, transforming everyday broadcasts into compelling narratives. Her journey from a radio disc jockey (DJ) to an award-winning producer is a testament to her dedication, talent, and the power of teamwork.
Born and raised in Honiara, Cheryl hails from parents from Ysabel and Central Islands provinces, her journey into the world of media began in 2008. She entered the media industry as a DJ at Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation’s (SIBC) Wantok FM Station. “Those early years were crucial in shaping her skills and knowledge in broadcasting and radio program production, working alongside veterans like famous sports commentator and broadcaster Bart Basia and other senior staff members,” Cheryl told SOLOMON WOMEN.
Reflecting on her beginnings, Cheryl said, “I started with the National Broadcaster (SIBC) in 2016 as a health program producer, covering health issues affecting the country and educating listeners with information through the ‘Stap Healthy Program’ and the ‘Daily Health Tips’. Apart from that, I work alongside my seniors to produce coverage on big events on the radio, SIBC online, and TV coverage on TTV.”
Cheryl’s role evolved significantly as SIBC prepared for the Pacific Games in 2023. She worked closely with Singapore-based Melanesia Media Group (MMG) colleagues, whose extensive experience in TV production provided her with invaluable mentorship. This experience allowed Cheryl to elevate her producer role to new heights.
One of her breakthrough moments came with SIBC TV’s first broadcast on TTV on Independence Day 2023, a significant project that tested her skills and resilience.
“As they say, once you know what the taste is like, you can add on the ingredients that would add up to a good menu. It takes time, patience, practice, good spirit, and the best team input. A pure significance that men play an excellent role beside women,” she reflected.
Receiving the Production Award is a significant milestone in Cheryl’s career. She attributes this achievement to the collaborative spirit and progressive teamwork at SIBC.
“First of all, SIBC as an organization itself stands to empower women, support them, and push everyone forward with passion. Receiving a production award is the result of splendid, forward, and progressive teamwork. It doesn’t come easy; to be a producer, you need a strong, reliable, and passionate team of men and women.
“One has to be determined, committed, dedicated, and disciplined,” Cheryl explained.
She added that winning the Production Award is not just a personal achievement for her but a recognition of the collective effort of her team.
“This award shows the commitment and dedication not only from myself but from a very dedicated team. I personally did not feel it was for myself alone. With the resources and manpower SIBC has, it is evident that a good team makes the best results.
“I made sure we give the best we can, and I can only be thankful and blessed that this award is a reflection of not only me but SIBC giving the best it can to keep the listeners and viewers connected and united, despite the many challenges faced,” Cheryl said.
The journey to this award was not without its challenges. Balancing her demanding work schedule with family life as a mother of five required immense dedication and perseverance.
Cheryl shared, “It is challenging in a way you have to really be scheduled in routine timing and get ready to do the job at the eleventh hour. With work and taking care of my kids, these challenges have carved my priority rights over quality time spent with my children and the work that has to be done.
“It personally teaches me that to make sacrifices needs a lot of patience, dedication, attitude, and character, and in a way, it has very valuable benefits of perseverance, progress, and forwardness.”
Likewise, the award recognizes Cheryl’s consistency, quality work, innovation, and creativity in program production. It also signifies the importance of leadership and collaboration in achieving excellence. Cheryl believes that this award will open more doors and opportunities to further advancements in her career and inspire others in the field.
Cheryl Bera, a senior broadcaster with the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation, has won the Production Award at the Media Excellence Awards 2024. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she has transformed everyday broadcasts into compelling narratives. Born and raised in Honiara, her journey into media began in 2008.
