As SABC News celebrates 75 years on air, we look back and follow up on ordinary South Africans who became unexpected headlines for the national broadcaster.
One such story is that of 24-year-old Kaone Boikanyo, who captured the nation’s attention in 2019 with his lively, impromptu interview after a fire destroyed a shopping complex on Station Road in Mahikeng.
SABC journalist Sentleeng Lehihi and video journalist Zolani Alexander, who first interviewed Kaone nearly six years ago, recently caught up with him at his home outside Mahikeng.
It was 2019 … when a massive blaze engulfed businesses. And cameras captured a moment that soon went viral across social media platforms.
Now, nearly six years later, it all feels surreal.
Kaone Boikanyo says, “That day was just a normal day. I had just woken up and my brother said, ‘Let’s go to town together.’ When we got there, I found the place burning. I was rushing to grab clothes and stuff. The police were busy shooting… I saw myself everywhere. I couldn’t believe it. Even at school, teachers were asking me, ‘What were you saying? What was that?’”
Kaone’s popularity extended beyond social media, turning him into a local celebrity.
“I became a little bit popular… thanks to you, thanks to SABC. That year was good… even now I’m a popular guy here. Everywhere I go, they know me as ‘Mr. Bucket what what…’”
However, Kaone’s dreams faced a serious setback when he lost his mother in early 2020.
“All I wanted was to be an astronaut. While I was studying, I didn’t know where to go to pursue that here in South Africa. So now I’m just hustling. But at least I’m okay. I’m good ever since I lost my mom.”
Despite the challenges, Kaone remains hopeful and says the SABC will always have a special place in his life.
“SABC is everything. We need SABC on TV – SABC 1, 2, 3… and obviously with everyone at SABC – especially you, me… we are SABC.”
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