A useful community story pitch explains what is happening, who is affected and why listeners should care. It does not need to sound like a press release. A short, accurate message is often a better starting point than a dramatic headline with little information behind it.
Separate what you know from what you have heard
Write down the facts you can support. Include where and when something happened, how you know about it and who can provide more information. If a detail is unconfirmed, label it that way instead of presenting it as established fact.
For a project or event, send the organiser’s contact and relevant public information. For a personal experience, explain whether you are describing your own experience or speaking on someone else’s behalf. Avoid circulating another person’s private contact details without their agreement.
Explain the local connection
A story might concern a neighbourhood initiative, an artist’s work or a practical issue affecting a community. Explain that connection in concrete terms. “The group is opening its first public reading session” tells a producer more than “an amazing initiative is changing everything.”
Suggest possible interviewees and explain their connection to the subject. Different perspectives can help a conversation move beyond a single promotional message. The station may choose a different approach after reviewing the idea.
Keep the first message focused
Use a short subject line and two or three concise paragraphs. Include one reliable reply contact and links to supporting material. Large collections of unrelated images or forwarded messages can make the important information harder to find.
The Intsetse FM contact page is a starting point for an enquiry. Sending a pitch does not guarantee coverage, and a station may need time to verify details. Explore the community and news stories already on the site so you can explain how your idea adds something new.
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