Watch – Section 16: A powerful look at courage and resilience in South African journalism

In 2022, Daily Maverick Emilie Gambade and Malibongwe Tyilo produced and directed a film titled Section 16. The film was inspired by the findings of The Chilling, “a global research project by UNESCO and the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ), led by ICFJ’s Dr Julie Posetti and Nabeelah Shabbir with contributions by 25 international researchers”.

In an era where the credibility of the media is under scrutiny and fake news proliferates rapidly, the role of investigative journalists becomes crucial; their activity on social media often serves as a vital counter to misinformation.

Yet, the digital landscape resembles a game of cat and mouse, with journalists and online bullies clashing in a relentless struggle.

The film sheds a light on the personal experiences and remarkable contributions of four South African women journalists: Ferial Haffajee, Marianne Thamm, Pauli van Wyk, and Caryn Dolley.

It looks into the factors that shifted the conversation surrounding their published stories, the origins of the attacks they faced, and the deeply personal and brutal nature of those assaults.

Ultimately, Section 16 tells a story of hope, inspiration, resilience, and extraordinary strength.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPa4gJepD5Y

Produced and directed by: Emilie Gambade
Filmed and directed by: Malibongwe Tyilo
Musical score: Bernard Kotze