On the 9th October 2024, we welcomed Ulster University graduate and Northern Ireland radio and DJ legend Pete Snodden to take part in our “In Conversation” event with guest host, Professor Paul Moore, to talk about his incredible career journey in the creative industries.
Pete shared his early memories of discovering a love of dance music and radio as a young boy, nurtured by his loving parents, Irene and Jackie, who always encouraged him to not only do his best, but to follow his own dreams and ambitions.
"Never put myself in shoes of person answering, but that’s me tonight. No idea where this is going!"
Talking open and honestly, Pete was able to share a side of his life many people might not know. As a schoolboy, Pete lacked in confidence when public speaking, leading peers and teachers alike to doubt his suitability for a career as a DJ and radio presenter.
Pete then talked about how he wanted to prove the naysayers wrong, spurred on by his determination and resilience instilled in him from his parents.
From stories as a young boy discovering rave music and culture in a thriving Belfast scene, to hosting a 5 day a week breakfast show on radio, Pete’s story highlights his steadfast self-belief, boldness and relentless hustle.
Through out his late teens and early twenty’s, Pete juggled university, DJing in clubs across NI and hosting a late-night dance music radio show.
Encouraged by his parents and mentors, Pete grasped the opportunity to take on additional radio presenting jobs despite his fear it would take him further away from his passion for dance music. However, there was no turning back for Pete and within two years he landed the lead host gig on Cool FM’s breakfast show.
Set against a backdrop of a troubled past and promise of a more peaceful future in the early 2000s, Pete shared an ambition to draw on the quirks and comedy that unites people of NI, and bring that energy and humour to the breakfast show.
It was fascinating to listen to Pete and hear his story first-hand, we can only say thank you to both him and our incredible host Professor Paul Moore for creating a fun, relaxed and engaging conversation for our alumni in the audience.
Another massive thank you needs to be said to all our guests and graduates who showed up and contributed to a night filled with laughter, storytelling and heart-warming anecdotes. We hope to see you at another event soon!
Check out images from our “In Conversation With Pete Snodden” event down below!
Pete Snodden sharing insights to his incredible career journey
