Next Radio has crowned Lukas Blacc as the winner of The Next Big Voice 2026 at the grand finale held on April 23, 2026, bringing to a close a nationwide talent search that has spotlighted the next generation of radio talent in Uganda.
Launched in March, The Next Big Voice was built on a clear vision: to open up the industry and give young people a real chance to be seen, heard, and developed. The call invited aspiring presenters across the country to submit 30-second audition videos, drawing hundreds of entries from individuals eager to step into the media space.
From this pool, a select group was invited to Next Media Park for physical auditions, where creativity, confidence, and on-air presence were put to the test. The process then narrowed to a top 10, who advanced into a focused training experience that combined mentorship, practical sessions, and direct exposure to the demands of live broadcasting. Industry professionals, including Mark Agaba, Canary Mugume, Porsha Aloyo, and Ronnie McVex, guided the participants through this phase, shaping both skill and mindset.
As the competition progressed, contestants were challenged through real broadcast scenarios, testing their adaptability, delivery, and ability to connect with audiences. The final four — Lucas Blacc, Hannah Arinaitwe, Atim Jane Nyirata, and Cophi Samuels — delivered standout performances at the grand finale, each reflecting growth and readiness for the industry.
Lukas Blacc emerged as the winner, standing out for his consistency, originality, and strong on-air presence. His journey through the competition showed both talent and growth, along with a clear ability to engage audiences. With a background as an artist, he brings a unique perspective to radio, shaped by a deep connection to Uganda’s music culture and youth expression.
His win marks the beginning of a new chapter, as he steps into the Next Media ecosystem to further develop his craft and contribute to shaping the sound of audiovisual radio.
The Next Big Voice created impact at scale. Participants gained exposure, hands-on experience, and mentorship that will continue to shape their paths in media. For many, the platform offered clarity, confidence, and access that may have previously felt out of reach.
The initiative reflects Next Media’s ongoing commitment to building talent from the ground up. By creating space for discovery and growth, the platform continues to contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic media industry in Uganda, where opportunity is accessible, and potential is given room to grow.
