The bright shocking pink décor of TV BRA’s new studio reflects the lively spirit of its reporters.
This color is particularly favored by two of the station’s reporters, Emily Ann Riedel—who donned a pink top during the visit—and Petter Bjørkmo. Bjørkmo humorously recalled sporting pink hair before transitioning to a more neutral look for professionalism.
All reporters at TV BRA, which translates to “TV Good,” are individuals with disabilities or autism, most of whom face learning challenges.
Each week, the team produces a one-hour magazine show encompassing news, entertainment, and sports, streaming on major channels alongside their own app and website.
‘I have inner beauty and outside beauty’
The program is presented in straightforward Norwegian at a deliberate pace, making it accessible to a broader audience. Between 4,000 and 5,000 viewers tune in weekly.
The station’s 10 reporters operate as local correspondents across the country.
Riedel, who has Down’s Syndrome, resides and works in the picturesque region of Stavanger. She has mastered the art of professional presentation despite her naturally effusive personality.
“I adhere strictly to the script and avoid personal anecdotes because the focus is on delivering the news professionally,” she stated.
Despite her extensive experience, Riedel continues to discover new aspects of the role, like the experience of wearing makeup for on-camera appearances.
“I don’t need makeup; I have both inner and outer beauty,” Riedel said joyfully. Kvalheim noted the need for touch-ups on camera due to the studio’s lighting conditions.
Kvalheim leads a small technical crew, with reporters providing genuine insights into local affairs.
While Riedel and her colleagues have mild learning disabilities that don’t impede their English communication skills or independent travel, challenges remain.
The team navigates learning a new autocue system, typically requiring repeated attempts for clear delivery.
“It’s essential to repeat lines until we achieve the desired clarity,” Kvalheim explained, also mentoring reporters who came to the station without formal journalism training.
However, high standards are expected from this dedicated team.
“Kvalheim encourages us to be perfect. Her feedback is constructive and clear,” Riedel shared.
“When she is proud of our work, her enthusiasm is contagious, pushing us to harness our energy for excellence!”
Acknowledging the sensitive nature of feedback given to those with disabilities, Kvalheim emphasizes the importance of maintaining professionalism to be respected in the industry.
The foundation of TV BRA began more than a decade ago, rooted in Kvalheim’s experience as a teacher in a residential care home, where her passion for filmmaking ignited collaboration and creativity.
“As we filmed together, we became a cohesive team, and every contributor had a voice. That dynamic transformed everything,” Kvalheim recalls.
Realizing their contributors had significant insights to share, she was inspired to grow this initiative into what is now a national network.
Today, TV BRA boasts a fully equipped studio, though Kvalheim admits that compensation for reporters lags behind industry standards.
State funding and revenues from partnerships provide support, but resources remain limited.
The motivation for the team, however, extends beyond monetary compensation. The platform empowers the disabled community to advocate for their rights as societal challenges persist.
‘Talking about rights’
A recent report by Petter Bjørkmo highlights these issues, focusing on individuals with severe disabilities in Trondheim facing bureaucratic hurdles to essential services.
“The local government suggested transitioning her shopping budget online, but for someone with communication difficulties, that is simply unfeasible!” Bjørkmo emphasized.
His compelling story generated significant viewer engagement, illustrating the critical role of media in raising awareness about disability rights, even when governmental policies remain unchanged.
“TV BRA plays a crucial role in amplifying the voice of individuals with disabilities, highlighting our rights,” stated Hofsø, a veteran reporter.
Having gained recognition even prior to joining TV BRA, Hofsø previously led a successful film role in 2013.
Bjørkmo previously took the lead in a film, Detective Downs, and demonstrated his interview skills during the parliamentary elections, using humor to engage political figures on disability issues.
One memorable scene depicted him humorously approaching a politician outside parliament, leading to a lighthearted yet serious discussion about policies affecting the disabled community.
Kvalheim fondly recalls that encounter, “It was delightfully funny, and the rapport established has only grown since.”
During my visit, local lawmaker Silje Hjemdal engaged with the reporters, discussing various policies and her support for TV BRA’s mission.
The interaction was warm and productive, highlighting the growing recognition of TV BRA’s impact over the years.
‘Making TV in a new way’
TV BRA stands as a pioneering example, with similar initiatives emerging in Iceland and Denmark. In several countries, simplified news services exist but often lack representation from individuals with disabilities.
For the audience of TV BRA, such programming is invaluable. “This station is vital for our community because it makes news comprehensible,” stated Anne-Britt Ekerhovd, a devoted viewer.
Another audience member, Espen Giertsen, echoed this sentiment: “What sets this apart is the innovative approach to television production.”
TV BRA reporters recognize their essential role in advocating for an often-overlooked audience.
“By lifting the weight off their shoulders, we foster acceptance and empowerment within our community,” Riedel expressed passionately.
People Fixing the World – A groundbreaking TV news service
TV BRA in Norway is a unique media organization, presenting a national news show by reporters with learning disabilities or autism.
By interviewing politicians and authority figures, the station aims to hold power accountable while reshaping perceptions of people with learning disabilities.
The journalists share some of their best stories and aspirations for the future in their state-of-the-art studio.
