Vivek Sanil, popularly known as RJ Vicky, is a name that echoes across the UAE’s radio waves every morning. From humble beginnings in India to becoming one of the most loved radio personalities in Dubai, his journey is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
The Beginning of a Dream
It all started with music. Vivek’s day would begin and end with the radio playing Hindi retro songs. These melodies became a part of his daily life, shaping his love for sound and rhythm. Over time, his friends began noticing something unique about him, his voice. They often told him it had something special, something made for radio. That encouragement lit the spark.
He took a leap and auditioned at All India Radio. That step marked the beginning of his radio journey. It was not just a job for him, it was a calling.
Facing Rejections, Embracing the Hustle
Like many others trying to break into private radio stations, Vivek faced multiple rejections. Transitioning from a government setup like All India Radio to private players was not easy. There were closed doors and disheartening moments. But what set him apart was his attitude, he never stopped knocking.
Eventually, he secured a spot at Radio City in Nagpur, then moved to the Mumbai station. Each move brought new challenges, but also new lessons. And then, in 2009, he took a bold step that would change his life forever. He moved to Dubai.
A Life Changing Moment on Air
One of the most touching stories from Vivek’s career happened live on air. A listener called in, heartbroken. His family had lost their home in a building fire in Sharjah. While narrating this on air, something unexpected happened. A manager from City Max Hotel, who was tuned in, immediately offered the family a hotel room with breakfast for an entire month.
That moment was more than just radio, it was humanity in action. It reminded Vivek why he chose this path. The ability to connect, to create change, and to spread positivity became his mission.
Mastering the Mic in Dubai
Today, Vivek is a prime presenter at Talk 100.3 in Dubai. After spending over 15 years in music radio, shifting to a talk radio format gave his work a whole new depth. His current role involves much more than playing songs. He interacts with government officials, industry experts, celebrities, and most importantly, everyday listeners.
Whether it is discussing trending news, raising awareness about social issues, or simply sharing laughs with listeners, Vivek brings energy and authenticity to every show.
Behind the Scenes: A Habit of Preparation
What makes Vivek so effective on air? It is his discipline. He believes in preparing and planning every show. That preparation gives him the confidence and flexibility to be spontaneous, engaging, and fun when the mic goes live. The framework is ready, so he can play around, improvise, and enjoy the moment without losing direction.
He treats each broadcast as if it could be his last, giving his complete effort every time. That mindset keeps the quality of his content consistently high.
Living with Purpose
Vivek’s story is not just about being a radio presenter. It is about living a purposeful life. He wants to be on the radio till his last breath, not because of fame or awards, but because he genuinely loves what he does. It brings him joy, and it helps others. That is fulfillment for him.
He advises people to define success in their own terms. “You do not have to work for a company that claims to be number one. Make your work number one,” he often says. This philosophy has helped him stay grounded and focused throughout his career.
Lessons from Vivek’s Journey
Vivek’s story holds valuable lessons for anyone chasing a dream
- Believe in your uniqueness. Your voice, literal or metaphorical, can create change.
- Be persistent. Rejections are part of the journey. What matters is showing up every day.
- Prepare then perform. Structure gives you the freedom to be creative.
- Use your platform. Whatever your job is, find ways to help others.
- Love what you do. When you enjoy the process, success becomes a byproduct.
Vision for the Future
Vivek’s vision is not tied to awards, fame, or ratings. He wants to be remembered as someone who loved his job deeply and used it to inspire others. He hopes that his journey encourages people to explore what they truly enjoy and to keep going until they reach their version of excellence.
Whether you are a college student figuring out your future or a professional looking to switch gears, Vivek’s story is proof that passion, when matched with persistence, can lead to remarkable outcomes.
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