Media monitoring Africa (MMA) is proud to award The Daily Voice a GLAD[1] for its article, “KOESISTER KAMPIOEN” (09/07/2025) written by Marsha Dean. The story centres on the World Koesister Day event, where up-and-coming chefs, differently abled youth, and learners from various schools were given an opportunity to showcase their creativity and cultural pride by making innovative koesister recipes. This event marked the start of Heritage Month, and the coverage celebrates the Cape Malay culinary heritage, emphasising community, tradition, and the unifying power of food.
The article highlights the achievements of young participants such as Abduraghmaan Jassiem, a 17-year-old hospitality student, who won first place with his spekboom-infused koesister inspired by his grandmother’s recipe. The article focuses on the positive impact of cultural traditions, the nurturing of young talent, and pathways into the hospitality and tourism industry for the participants. The story also gives dignity and voice to the children and youth involved, foregrounding their skills, aspirations, and familial connections without exposing them to harm or negative portrayal.
Importantly, the article does not reveal any details that could place a child at risk. While it notes participants by first name and age in a celebratory context, it provides no sensitive or invasive personal information, especially critical in situations where the child’s best interests are paramount. This aligns with the ethical standards set out in South African law and media codes, including the Constitution (Section 28)[2] and the Children’s Act 38 of 2005[3], which place the best interests of the child at the centre of all decisions and actions concerning them. Additionally, the article adheres to the South African Press Code[4], which states that children should only be interviewed or photographed with proper consent and when it is genuinely in their best interest, with heightened caution around legal or sensitive matters.
By spotlighting youth achievement in a non-sensitive, skill-building context and facilitating broader opportunities through an eleven-month industry programme, the story goes above and beyond the basic reporting standard. It promotes respect, inclusion, and pride, and models how the media can empower children and youth within a framework of ethical journalism and the law.
Written by Tinotenda L. Bangajena.
Edited by Ntombifuthi Kubeka
[1] GLAD’s are awarded to media for reporting on children responsibly and for accessing them
[2] https://www.concourt.org.za/index.php/71-children-s-rights/section-28-children/133-section-28-children
[3] https://www.justice.gov.za/legislation/acts/2005-038%20childrensact.pdf