In line with this, Beautiful News has dedicated itself to unearthing the inspiring and uplifting stories of lesser-known individuals throughout the country, capturing the diverse set of voices and uniqueness of South Africa that reflects our people’s remarkable and enduring spirit.
The aim is to provide a source of positive and authentic news stories with the messaging ‒ ‘Together we are better’, which embodies the selflessness, entrepreneurial courage, and the human kindness that brings us together.
The content Beautiful News received and that was shared by the public has spread across social media, in video format, showcasing the goodness of the communities and the people around us in our country.
There are hundreds of stories that have embodied the profound impact that has helped unfamiliar individuals who are striving to make a positive impact to spread their messages of hope. The uptake from the South Africa public indicates that this is just the type of news the public wants.
Comments teacher Kate Rodrigues from St Johns College, “I just want to say thank you for the Beautiful News. As a Grade 6 and 7 class, we often watch your videos and get the boys to write their own responses to the news...It has such a positive impact on their happiness and the day…Thank you for keeping their thoughts positive!”
Similarly, Beautiful News South Africa has impacted more than 300 lives by showcasing the strengths and talent, and identifying the impact in the sports arena, arts and culture, conservation, human rights, education, social entrepreneurship, community upliftment, or how they have overcome adversity, broken stereotypes, become a pioneer or women of excellence.
Beautiful News has shown itself to be a platform where story subjects are given recognition, support and encouragement through the audience’s engagement and generosity.
Richard Monisi, the blind runner who has completed 12 Comrades Marathons received backing to compete in his next half marathon as well as additional financial support for his family.
La-eequah Jansen, the 12-year-old sprinter who got her start racing barefoot, has been approached by a number of athletics clubs wanting to work with her. The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls has also shown an interest in La-eequah attending the school.
Tracey Derrick, the photographer who documented her journey to recovery from breast cancer, was so encouraged by the feedback received after her Beautiful News story, that she has decided to create a book about her journey.
Mandisi Sindo, the founder of Shack Theatre, received offers of funding to construct a new theatre space after his story was featured on Beautiful News.
Buhle Sithela of Sunshine Cinema has been selected for the Red Bull Amaphiko Academy – a launch pad for grassroots social entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their communities.
Ben Moyo, a photographer, was about to throw in the towel, but when he saw his video was featured as one of the main films at the Mercedes-Benz South Africa Fashion Week in Cape Town, it drove him to continue doing what he loves and gave him the validation he needed to continue to pursue his dreams.
The Pangolin Men of the Tikki Hywood Trust attracted international attention and interest including offers of help from individuals and major organisations such as United for Wildlife and The International Union for Conservation of Nature.
The founder of Ginkgo, well-known photographer and filmmaker Adrian Steirn extends his thanks to the community by saying, “Beautiful News has showcased the inspirational moments of ordinary people doing extraordinary things, establishing us at the forefront and in the presence of the minds of South Africans, thereby demonstrating the power of positivity to our people.”
Steirn previously created the 21 Icons series, inspired by Nelson Mandela, which profiled the iconic individuals who led the nation’s journey to democracy and helped to unite its communities. The Beautiful News timeslot (4.14pm) recognises the moment Nelson Mandela was released from prison on 11 February 1990.
The experience of creating the 21 Icons project made it clear that South Africa has an abundance of people whose untold stories are worthy of celebration. Beautiful News was born of a desire to share them, thereby generating positive conversations about people who show generosity and kindness towards their neighbours, symbolise triumph over adversity or provide inspiration within their communities.
Steirn concludes, “We would like to pay homage to the public and thank you all for the feedback received thus far and for keeping the Beautiful News stories alive.
In the future, Beautiful News will continue releasing one short film at 4.14pm daily.
For more information visit www.beautifulnews.co.za and connect on Facebook and Instagram.
