Latin voices, local stories: Denisse Herrera Brings ‘Alo Aotearoa’ to Free FM

Denisse Herrera is the host of a brand-new Free FM radio show and podcast, Alo Aotearoa. In this Q&A, Denisse gives us some background on her career in Ecuador and her hopes for the show.

  • Please tell us a little about your journalist life back in Ecuador.

I am an Ecuadorian journalist who has worked from the ground, covering some of the most significant social movements in recent years, highlighting the struggles of Indigenous communities. I have accompanied the voices of women survivors of violence in a region marked by gender inequality and harsh realities.

My work also seeks to amplify the voices of sexual and gender-diverse communities, minorities, and grassroots movements. I studied journalism in Argentina and have worked with international media. I have also reported from Colombia and Venezuela. My roots are in Ecuador, but my journalism has always carried the heart of Latin America.

  • What brought you to Aotearoa and Hamilton?

Those who know me well know that, since I was a child, I was lost in Tolkien’s world. His work marked a very important chapter in my life, and I always dreamed of visiting the land of Frodo Baggins.

Life brought my partner into my path — the son of a Kiwi and an Ecuadorian — and, without planning it, love led me here. Sometimes, dreams find us in the most unexpected ways.

  • The team at Free FM are excited to have you join their lineup of shows. How did you make a connection with them, and what are your aspirations for Alo Aotearoa?

I believe in local journalism and in the power of people’s voices. That’s how I’ve built my career—by listening, accompanying, and telling stories from the ground. During these years in New Zealand, I’ve dedicated myself to observing and understanding what’s happening here. My community calls me, and I see communication as a noble form of service.

My greatest desire is to be a bridge between the Latin community and New Zealand — and vice versa — because this island is deeply generous, and it’s an honour to hold a microphone and share valueble information.

  • How can people connect with you? 

Check out my Instagram page here. For more on Alo Aotearoa, see our Instagram page here.