The media plays a powerful role in amplifying children’s stories showcasing their potential and inspiring their peers. Such reporting can break stereotypes, empower young people and amplify the incredible capabilities of the youth. In a world where young voices are often overlooked, celebrating the remarkable achievements of the youth has become important.
Media Monitoring Africa (MMA) awards a GLAD[1] to Cape Times for its inspiring and responsible coverage of Stacey Fru’s achievements. The article, “SA literary prodigy achieves academic excellence with seven distinctions” (17/01/2025) shows an ideal narrative about a young achiever.
This article was written by Nicola Daniels, reports on 17-year-old Stacey Fru’s amazing academic performance, shining a light on her seven distinctions in the 2024 matric exams alongside her literary and advocacy work. The article presents Stacey as a young role model to the youth by reflecting on how she conquered academic obstacles, jugging her many passions and curating productive study habits. It also highlights her perseverance as she became the youngest author to have her work accepted as part of the primary school curriculum after writing her first book “Smell Cats” at the age of seven.
Cape Times demonstrates responsible journalism by giving Stacey’s voice a platform to shine. Her insights about overcoming academic challenges, balancing diverse passions and developing effective study techniques position her as a compelling role model. She was quoted saying, “at first, I was a little disappointed. Out of all the subjects I thought French would be the subject I got a distinction, nonetheless happy with all results”.
By portraying Stacey as a multifaceted person, the reporting upholds the rights of children. Instead of using clichés, it highlights her unique qualities as an author, activist, and accomplished student. This strategy emphasises children’s right to participation and hearing, upholding both Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)[2], which South Africa adopted in 1995, and Section 28.2 of the Bill of Rights[3].
MMA praises Cape Times for crafting a story that honours the accomplishments of young people. By portraying Stacey’s journey as an authentic tale of tenacity, creativity and academic success, the article encourages readers to also aim high.
We encourage Cape Times to keep producing stories that uplift and genuinely represent children’s experiences and achievements.
Written by Nthabiseng Mahlangu
Edited by Ntombifuthi Kubeka
[1] GLAD- represent good practice, where the media has promoted the rights and welfare of children
[2] UNCRC- https://www.unicef.org/child-rights-convention/convention-text-childrens-version