We live in a world where artificial intelligence increasingly permeates every element in our lives. Through the massive spread of disinformation online, the public and the media landscape face enormous challenges, now more than ever. The story of the KAS Comic Book follows a young investigative journalist, Afi, her mentor, Oesi, and her friend - a computer genius - Kojo, on a dangerous mission to expose corruption. While risking their careers and safety, they uncover a disinformation campaign fuelled by artificial intelligence and fight together to protect the truth!
With this comic book, the KAS Media Africa Programme seeks to portray the changes in the media wrought by technology – both good and bad. This story is important for the work of journalists not only in Africa, but across the world and highlights how we use AI to tell important stories, but also, how dangerous it can be if it goes unchecked.
Hendrik Sittig, Director, KAS Media Programme for Sub-Saharan Africa:
“Since the trust in media is continuously decreasing, we use media literacy as an important tool to strengthen the credibility of the media. Therefore, this comic book is for everyone - no matter the age or profession – and aims to bring awareness about the threats against democracy, especially in the age of AI.”
Ryan Pedro (Author)
Ryan Pedro, born in 1993, is a South African poet and screenwriter. His debut poetry collection, Pienk ceramic-hondjies, was published in 2020 and delves into themes of identity, race, class, and education. The collection is known for its use of shifting Afrikaans language, capturing the complexities of growing up in rural South Africa. In 2017, some of his poems were included in Nuwe Stemme 6, an anthology that highlights emerging Afrikaans writers. Pedro has also worked as a screenwriter, contributing to South African television series such as Suidooster, Sousie, and Wyfie. His poetry collection won the UJ Debut Prize in 2021, recognizing his impact on contemporary Afrikaans literature.
Careshia Esperanza (Illustrator)
Careshia Esperanza is a fine artist and illustrator creating in her studio in Cape Town, South Africa. With over 11 years of experience in illustration, she is expanding her footprint in the art world. Her work spans digital illustration, painting, and sculpture. She aims to infuse humor and playfulness into her art, finding joy in the creative process.
She has collaborated with renowned names such as ASICS, Ogilvy, Anglo-American, SANRAL, Rain, and others, who have praised her creativity in bringing their projects to life. She has also been recognized with awards from prestigious South African design accolades like Pendoring, Assegaai, Loeries, and Bookmark for her collaboration with Distell."
