Jamie Robinson, a 16-year-old from the Isle of Wight, is preparing to take on a DJ challenge like no other.
Performing under the name JAMROKI, he will play a continuous 1000-minute set – that’s 16 hours and 40 minutes – on Good Friday, 18th April, at the newly renovated Department on Cross Street, Ryde, home of Shademakers.
Supporting young lives through music
Jamie hopes to attract 1,000 sponsors, aiming to raise £10,000 to support three Isle of Wight organisations that help children and young people: the Youth Trust, St Mary’s Children’s Ward, and Department’s youth programmes.
He came up with the idea himself and is committed to seeing it through. Jamie said,
“All this really matters.
“Your help is amazing!”
From festival sets to fundraising
Jamie started DJing and drumming at a young age and played his first big festival at just 12 years old. He’s now combining his talent with a mission to make a real difference for young people on the Island.
He already knows many of the people involved in the organisations he’s fundraising for. He said,
“I know the people at Department because I DJ’ed at festivals with them, I know Abi from the Youth Trust, and Dionne from the children’s ward.”
Funding real needs in the community
The money will go towards specific improvements, including three smart TVs for St Mary’s Children’s Ward to replace their old DVD systems. Jamie explained,
“It’s more than about entertainment.
“Watching pictures of beautiful places or a favourite show really helps when getting treatment.”
Each TV costs £399, plus £100 installation, totalling nearly £1,500.
Additional funds will support mental health sessions at the Youth Trust, which cost £70 each, and will help Department expand its creative programmes for young people.
Looking ahead: A permanent creative space
With enough support, Jamie also hopes to work with Rise Loud to set up a permanent open-decks and drop-in DJ space at Department.
This would give local young people access to electronic instruments and DJ equipment to explore music in a supported environment.
Get involved – Be one of the 1,000
At the time of publishing, Jamie had raised £380 towards his £10,000 goal.
Supporters can help by becoming one of the 1,000 sponsors and spreading the word.
As Jamie puts it,
“We can really do some good with this.”
