Background of HOD
Haiti On Demand (HOD), a community broadcast, was conceived by a group of people who believed the Haitian entertainment scene had great potential. The mainstream media has significantly sidelined and undermined some cultural groups. Haiti has received little attention in major international broadcasts. It is against such odds that Radio Continentale was founded in 2003 to promote the Haitian entertainment industry.
History of HOD
First Generation
The formation of this first-generation Haitian radio was not a straightforward process. To reach a wider audience, the broadcasters had to connect low-power transmitters to antennas attached to dedicated studio lines.
Second Generation
The second generation was launched following a shift in radio to emphasize general engagement and ethical themes. A renowned figure at the time, around 2010, was Mia Lopez, who inspired Power 102 to launch a program focused on women’s content created by women. Moreover, this second-generation studio played a crucial role in honoring Haitian artists. The period was marked by inclusivity and empowerment, enabling people of all backgrounds to share their stories and experiences. Thus, the broadcast lived up to its legacy of giving a voice to people in society who lacked a stage within the public sphere.
Third Generation
The launch of the third generation, Haitian On Demand (HOD), marked a shift toward digitalization. The HOD was developed for three years, during which it was clear that it could lead the parent power 102. Embracing modern technologies enabled HOD to reach a wider audience. Additionally, online platforms have changed the scope of interaction with listeners. Another significant development of this era is that the radio has an e-commerce plan to become the first Haitian Amazon.
Parallels with the Evolution of Traditional Media
The three generations of Haitian radio are comparable to traditional media. The first is parallel to the emergence of traditional media in 1920; the second generation is to the television launch in the 1950s; and the HOD to media bubble challenges. The ultimate vision of HOD is to continue creating initiatives that set the platform for sharing information without barriers.
The progress through the three generations is impressive and points to a hopeful future, thanks to digital technology. To showcase the world of Haitian entertainment, it is time to let all Haitian and women’s voices be heard and appreciated worldwide.
Reference
De Jesus, I. Q., & Hubbard, J. (2021). Media literacy for elementary education students: Inquiry into fake news. The Social Studies, 112(3), 136-145.