The Legacy of Saint FM is ending.

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce a major shift in the story of Saint FM, St Helena’s beloved radio station. Over the weekend, the station’s founder, Mike Olsson, was hospitalized for the second time in a week. On Monday, November 4th, he returned home with devastating news: he has only weeks left to live. True to his dedication and transparent approach, Mike requested that this announcement be made to listeners of Saint FM, the very community he cherished and devoted much of his life to serving.

To understand the gravity of this moment, one must look back on the incredible journey of Saint FM. The station was born to create an independent voice for St Helena—a place where news, culture, and conversation could flourish. From the first broadcast, the passion and relentless drive transformed Saint FM from a fledgling operation into a cornerstone of island life. It became the go-to source for daily news, music, talk shows, and community updates.

Mike is one of the only remaining founders of Saint FM. He dedicated years along with the loyalty of permanant staff and the station volunteers presenters and contributors that work long hours to ensuring that the station not only survived but thrived, despite the logistical challenges that come with running a media outlet on a remote island. His legacy extends beyond broadcasting; it embodies community connection, resilience, and the importance of having an independent platform for news and expression.

The unwelcome announcement came on the morning of November 4th, after receiving his prognosis, Mike asked that his terminal illness be publicly shared on Saint FM. This difficult announcement was made today, reflecting his commitment to openness and the trust he shared with listeners. In light of this heart-breaking development, the remaining staff and the director of Saint FM convened to discuss the station’s future. It was concluded, with deep regret, that operations must come to an end.

Saint FM will close its doors and cease broadcasting on Friday, November 8th at 4 pm. Until then, the team will continue to share news and updates as they come. However, there will be no daily News bulletin for the remainder of the week.

For those who wish to share news or messages during these final days, please reach out via email at **@he*****.sh or call 22660. The team remains committed to keeping the lines open for the community as long as possible.

The decision to end Saint FM’s broadcasting was not made lightly. Every discussion led to the same inevitable conclusion, despite its emotional toll on everyone involved. The Saint FM staff, knowing how cherished the station is, deeply regrets this outcome but understands the circumstances that have made it unavoidable.

To the loyal listeners who tuned in day after day, thank you. Your support has been the bedrock of Saint FM’s success. The station may be closing, but the impact it has made will echo through the island’s history. Mike Olsson’s legacy, marked by courage and unwavering dedication, will continue to inspire all who knew him or were touched by the station’s broadcasts.

As Saint FM signs off for the last time, we do so with immense gratitude for the community that sustained us and with deep respect for the man who made it all possible.