A vibrant youth with BPTV

BPO - I came to the broadcasting profession by chance. From a teacher standing on the podium with the dream of passing on a love of knowledge to generations of students, I took a path I never imagined: becoming friends with microphones, recording studios, and news broadcasts. What seemed like just a new experience has now turned into eight years.

Eight years may not be a long time compared to my predecessors, but for me – a broadcaster who has been with Binh Phuoc Radio, Television and Newspaper (BPTV) since its early days – it's been a brilliant youth, an unforgettable journey because I've lived fully in this profession. Those were the first days of awkwardness in the studio, hands trembling, heart pounding when the red "ON" light came on. There were the rehearsals until my throat was dry, focusing on pronunciation, breathing, pauses, intonation, and even editing and program production. There were news broadcasts that had to be recorded and re-recorded many times because of misreadings, inaccurate foreign language pronunciation, or sometimes simply not conveying the content effectively. Or there were the times when equipment malfunctioned live on air, requiring a split-second improvisation, causing anxiety and trembling, yet still maintaining a calm voice until the end of the program…

The author (second from the left) and a colleague discuss before implementing the program.

I will never forget those days working on air during the Covid-19 pandemic. When everywhere was under lockdown, the streets were deserted, and everyone stayed home, my colleagues and I took turns staying at the office, not because of orders, but because of our professional responsibility. Amidst the overwhelming news and heartbreaking statistics, we recorded, edited, and broadcast non-stop with only one desire: to keep the voice of BPTV present, as a connecting thread for the community, a source of spiritual support for everyone during those dark days. There were days when I sat alone in the studio, in front of the microphone, with only the hum of the air conditioner and the sounds of the machinery, but I still had to keep my voice calm and warm, because I knew that there were people listening outside. It was at those times that I realized more clearly than ever: Broadcasting is not just a profession, but a mission.

In my eight years in the profession, I've not only recorded in the studio or appeared on television, but I've also had the opportunity to step out of the studio and onto the stage. I've hosted programs at live television broadcasts, major cultural and artistic events of my organization... Each time I stand before an audience, I fully immerse myself in my passion, feeling the genuine connection between the professional and the audience. These experiences have shaped a vibrant, dynamic, enthusiastic, and ever- exploring part of my youth in this profession.

The author (on the right) in a BPTV talk show.

During that youthful period, I was also trusted by the organization and recommended to join the Party – a memorable experience that marked my growth in awareness and responsibility. At the same time, I was entrusted with participating in the Executive Committee of the BPTV grassroots youth union – where I not only worked professionally but also contributed my small part to union activities and volunteer work, spreading the spirit of youth within the environment I was affiliated with.

I used to jokingly tell people that my youth could be summed up in a few words: "You are watching the program... of Binh Phuoc Radio, Television and Newspaper," but that wasn't really a joke. Because for me, every news report, every event, every broadcast... represents sweat, tears, passion, and personal growth. It's a journey of bringing the voice of my homeland far and wide, leaving behind an irreplaceable memory in my heart.

Now, as we stand before a major turning point – the merger of Binh Phuoc province and the subsequent consolidation of the organizational structure of its media outlets – I, like many of my colleagues, feel a mix of emotions. As a journalist, I understand that mergers and streamlining are inevitable trends and correct decisions. However, from a personal perspective, I cannot avoid feeling a sense of nostalgia and regret. The name Binh Phuoc Radio, Television, and Newspaper, which I have always been proud to announce on air, may change – a name that represents the brand and voice of my homeland, Binh Phuoc, which I have been deeply connected to and proud of for the past eight years.

The author participated in the research process along with members of the BPTV Youth Union.

As the provincial merger day approaches, I increasingly reminisce about the past years, remembering how fortunate I was to be a part of the BPTV family. It wasn't just my workplace; it was where I lived my youth, working alongside passionate and dedicated people. Like my colleagues, I wasn't afraid of change. On the contrary, I was ready to learn, embrace new things, and accept a more professional and modern approach. Whether it's Binh Phuoc, Dong Nai , or some other new name, my passion for the profession and for our viewers and listeners remains as strong as ever. Because I had a brilliant youth under the roof of BPTV – a place that gave me invaluable experiences, profound lessons, and a solid foundation for me to continue my journey ahead.

Source: https://baobinhphuoc.com.vn/news/19/173236/thanh-xuan-ruc-ro-cung-bptv