By Rajdeep Kaur
Community is at the heart of everything we do at CIVL Radio, and that is where this story begins and resides.
What makes us different from the commercial sector is: the people.
Everyone who is part of our station, from volunteers and show hosts to staff, listeners, and our community – they all play a role in shaping what we are.
This month, some of those people, our volunteers and staff got together for a volunteer get-together, held at our sister station CJSF-FM (SFU’s Community and Campus Radio Station).
Having around 30 of our volunteers together in one place was something special. People who run shows, bring ideas to life, promote local events, and do all the behind-the-scenes work that keeps our station running, all in one room, all because they care about what we’re building – and about doing it together!
For over 20 years of CIVL now, we have had over 500 volunteers, and hundreds of shows created. Our station has always been a space for growth. Some shows are still going strong, while others have evolved, with people taking what they’ve gained here into new chapters.
One of our many volunteers, Edgar Wilson, has been part of the schedule even before we went on-air and were just on the internet, people are naturally drawn towards him. In a way he has become synonymous with the station. Uncle Bill with his unmatched knowledge about Rock and Roll has kept the funk up running since 2017. Legacy hosts Steve and Sheree and Andy Gronberg have been hosting shows here from outside BC. The Block with Bryson and the Eclectic Source with Kenley ever growing music shows with a confidence that reflects itself. The list goes on and on.
Our recent hosts, Kat & Russ, and Kodie, have already created shows that resonate with the Fraser Valley Music scene and bring in live performances from the best. Similarly, Cameron Hauck, has delved into many genres, from music to sport, and more with coming to being 3 years on air continuously. Rock show at 9 in the morning, or House Music in the afternoon, Corwin and David, two friends making the Fridays special followed by Naija Vibes uniqueness. Lion Trod, bring that reggae vibe to the valley.
Arthur, who has worked on their passion of music, plays, drama and production by bringing in global sounds. Our Music Director, Stephen Munga, hosts the syndicated national top 20 charts show, Earshot20, with guests that will leave you wondering how to rhyme champagne with Shantelle. While listening to the unfiltered review of being a first time father with local artist Ryan McClary or Ask Opa, a 5 days a week morning show on every and anything.
A lot of names here, but there are many many more who have contributed over the years. Too many to name in a single post, but each one has played an important role in shaping our station.
On April 18, 2026, we drove out to CJSF 90.1fm, Burnaby for the get-together, which surprisingly was a day prior to National Volunteer Week. There, we met CJSF staff, toured their studio space and music collection, and enjoyed pizza, pop and even some birthday cake. It was a valuable experience to share ideas or share some shows, learn from one another, and see how different stations operate. Their team hosted graciously, making us feel welcomed and included from the moment we arrived. It also brought a sense of community and connectivity among the sector that reinforces the visions and missions of our work.
Miyako Ando, who served as a Project Manager for 2024-2025, started Zuba Zuba, a show about Japanese culture with her co-hosts and came to the event saying it in her words that “visiting the SFU radio station and connecting with the team was a great experience. It was inspiring to hear from those involved, and I’m glad we had the opportunity to connect with them. I believe it was valuable for all of us.”
To every volunteer who showed up for the get-together and others as well, thank you. We also want to take a moment to recognize and appreciate all of our volunteers. From those who have been here since the early days to those just getting started, every contribution has made a difference. We are sure we have a long way with you all and many more to join.
CIVL Executive Director, Aaron Levy who also hosts, I Live Here Now with Cam, has been with CIVL for 16 years. He started his journey in the industry as a volunteer as well, at university in Guelph, Ontario with CFRU 93.3 FM, and that foundation has never left, creating community and impact at work. He’s spent years building this volunteer network.
When we say we are a Campus-Community radio station we mean it, serving students, locals and the community of the Fraser Valley, while growing and building a space for all.
That includes you! Email programming (at) civl (dot) ca today to get involved yourself!
