Yesterday, Dakar Foundation, witnessed a Live television production executed by a crew of 18-24 year olds named the Next Young Crusaders. In an era when digital platforms dominate media, a grassroots movement rooted in real voices and community engagement refuses to fade.
From Accelerated Radio Network’s studios to the historic sound-waves of 102.3 KJLH in Los Angeles, dedicated broadcasters are nurturing talent, honoring legacy, and using radio as a powerful tool for empowerment. The brain child of Accelerated Radio is 25 year veteran of KJLH, Kevin Nash. Kevin Nash and Dakar Foundation go back to the Bay Area as a mainstay on the airwaves of KMEL.
What Is Accelerated Radio Network?
Kevin Nash created, Accelerated Radio Network as more than a broadcasting platform — it’s a creative incubator for voices, ideas, and youth empowerment. The network offers:
- Podcast production
- Live streaming
- Audio/video and photography support
- Consulting for aspiring broadcasters
- Tools for launching radio/TV shows
All accessible on smart devices via live streams and digital content. Accelerated Radio
This isn’t just a station — it’s a community hub where storytellers, musicians, and future broadcasters find a home.
Kevin Nash: Radio Ambassador & Educator
A central figure in this story is Kevin Nash — an on-air personality at KJLH 102.3 FM and the founder/CEO of the Accelerated Radio Network and Accelerated Radio School of Broadcasting. Basshead Studios+1
Kevin’s broadcasting journey began at age 12 and evolved into a decades-long career behind the microphone and behind the scenes. Today, he’s known for:
- Hosting The Kevin Nash Show Monday–Friday evenings on KJLH, where his eclectic musical vision and community focus shine. KJLH Radio
- Building on-campus radio stations and creating curriculum for local middle and high schools so students can explore broadcasting firsthand. Basshead Studios
- Mentoring future media leaders, blending technical skills, creativity, and community engagement.
Through Accelerated Radio, Kevin bridges generations — making broadcast media accessible to young people who otherwise might never have the opportunity to step into a studio.
Next Young Crusaders: Highlighting Community Leaders
One exciting initiative linked to these themes is the Next Young Crusaders interview series. These conversations spotlight emerging voices asking real questions of industry leaders. A standout moment occurred when they interviewed Karen Slade, Vice President and General Manager of 102.3 KJLH Radio — the historic Los Angeles station owned by Stevie Wonder. Radio Ink
In the interview, Slade reflected on over three decades in radio, discussing:
✔ How radio serves as a lifeline during community crises
✔ Fighting the digital divide with outreach programs like laptop giveaways
✔ The importance of accountability and trust between the station and its listeners
✔ Preparing the next generation of media professionals through mentorship and opportunity
Her insights underscore how local radio — often underestimated in the digital age — remains a trusted platform for connection, culture, and community service. Radio Ink
KJLH: Legacy Meets Innovation
Owned by Stevie Wonder and operating out of the Los Angeles area, KJLH has a rich history of serving diverse audiences with urban adult contemporary music and community programming. As one of the longest-running African American–owned stations on the West Coast, its mission goes beyond entertainment.
Leaders like Karen Slade have helped evolve the station into a trusted institution — one that actively engages with listeners, supports educational causes, responds in crises, and nurtures talent like Kevin Nash and tomorrow’s broadcasters.
Why This Matters
Together, Accelerated Radio Network, Next Young Crusaders, and KJLH represent a continuum of radio’s influence — past, present, and future:
- Accelerated Radio Network empowers creators and uplifts voices.
- Kevin Nash demonstrates how passion and mentorship can change lives.
- Karen Slade and KJLH show how community radio remains relevant, responsive, and essential.
Ayanna Lockett, writer, director, actor now, broadcast engineer.
Whether you’re on-air, behind the mic, or just tuning in, these platforms remind us that radio still has the power to educate, uplift, and unite — especially when it’s rooted in authentic community engagement.
🎙 Stay tuned. The next generation is already on air.
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