The complainant participated in a phone–in programme on Kaya FM 95.9 during which she alleges her vocation as a mind-set coach has subsequently been besmirched. Contraventions of Clauses 4(2), 12, 13 and 15(1) of the BCCSA’s Code of Conduct were argued. Clause 4(2) not applicable as the comments do not constitute hate speech. The topic was not of public importance with the result that Clauses 12 and 13 are not applicable. Complainant’s participation in the phone-in programme was to emphasise that a mind-set coach is not a motivational speaker and that these two callings are not similar. The statements that form the basis for the complaint in terms of Clause 15(1) are aimed at motivational speakers, which the complainant, on her own version, is not. Her reputation and dignity as mind-set coach were therefore not impaired. The complaint is dismissed. 

CLICK TO VIEW FULL JUDGMENT case no - 20-2017