Media Monitoring Africa (MMA) awards a GLAD[1] to Daily Sun for its thoughtful and empowering coverage of 11-year-old Kgatoentle Dube, a victim of bullying who has turned her painful experiences into a force for good. The article, “Little Kgatoentle takes bullying by the horns!” (14/11/2025), written by Daily Sun reporter Aaron Dube, portrays Kgatoentle not as a victim but as a confident advocate determined to help other children facing similar struggles.
The story details how Kgatoentle, from Klipgat in the Northwest, was frequently teased and body-shamed by her peers taunted for her eyes and physical appearance which deeply affected her self-esteem. Instead of allowing the cruelty to define her, she channelled her experience into empowerment. Crowned Little Miss Township South Africa 2025 and Miss Charity Ambassador, Kgatoentle now campaigns against bullying and uses her voice to encourage other children to love themselves and speak out against abuse. The article captures her message of resilience, self-acceptance, and kindness, highlighting that “children can achieve great things when they believe in themselves.”
Importantly, Daily Sun presents Kgatoentle’s narrative in a sensitive and responsible manner. The journalist gives the child a platform to share her perspective in her own words, showing her agency, while avoiding exploitative details about her trauma. When the article mentions her 13-year-old friend who sadly took her own life due to bullying, it does so with compassion and without revealing identifying details or sensationalising the tragedy. By balancing honesty with care, the story raises public awareness about bullying and mental health without putting any child at risk of further harm.
MMA commends Daily Sun for aligning its reporting with key child-rights frameworks. Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child[2] affirms that children have the right to freely express their views in matters that affect them, while Article 16[3] guarantees their right to privacy and dignity. By portraying Kgatoentle as a survivor, advocate, and role model, the article demonstrates that ethical reporting can both protect and empower children. It also aligns with Section 28 of South Africa’s Constitution[4], which states that a child’s best interests are of paramount importance in every matter concerning them.
MMA applauds Daily Sun for responsible journalism that highlights the strength, voice, and leadership of children. Such coverage contributes to changing public perceptions of childhood from one of vulnerability alone, to one of resilience, courage, and influence. MMA encourages Daily Sun to continue amplifying children’s voices and reporting on their experiences with the same sensitivity, integrity, and hope.
Written by Nthabiseng Mahlangu
Edited by Ntombifuthi Kubeka
[1] GLADs-are awarded to media for reporting on children responsibly and for protecting their best interests
[2] Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child- Accessed at: https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-mechanisms/instruments/convention-rights-child
[3] Article 16 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child- Accessed at: https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-mechanisms/instruments/convention-rights-child
[4] Section 28 of South Africa’s Constitution: Accessed at: https://www.concourt.org.za/index.php/71-children-s-rights/section-28-children/133-section-28-children