Award-winning social media kid-influencer, Kairo Forbes. Picture: Instagram.
Kairo Forbes, daughter of multi-award-winning DJ, Zinhle and the iconic late rapper, Kiernan “AKA” Forbes, has recently been at the centre of a social media storm.
Forbes was recently cast to model for local retailer, Ackermans, for their new back-to-school campaign alongside “Scandal” child actor, Khumo.
The advertisement didn’t sit well with detractors who voiced their opinions about Forbes being to “privileged” to model for the campaign.
They also said that the retailer should have rather given the opportunity to less privileged children.
Along with numerous others, Facebook user Gomolemo Moela wrote: “I'm not against Ackermans using Kairo and Khumo to advertise uniforms. But these kids are already privileged.
“They probably go to schools that don’t even wear uniforms they’re advertising ... Ackermans real customers are grandmothers from villages who swipe their SASSA cards to buy uniforms for their grandchildren ...
“Let disadvantaged kids get an opportunity to advertise... Since they are the real customers...”
Responding directly to Moela, Forbes wrote: “My opinion is, if you want your child in the industry WORK on it!”
She added that people should not expect a child with no profile or portfolio to be chosen.
Forbes said: “Be with an agency because these big brand scouts through agencies. Some come to social media, that time your profile is locked and you don’t want your child to be seen on socials.”
She added that before parents complain, they should work on their children’s crafts.
“Let’s not be entitled,” she ended.
Read the post below.
Some netizens took to the comments to criticise Forbes saying that her response was a bit to harsh.
However, others defended Forbes for dishing out great advice.
Facebook user, Ditshegofatso Perm, wrote: “I don't think it was said out of jealousy, the person who posted that, might not have known the procedure of application, I still think Kairo Forbes is somehow a little bit harsh in her response.”
Yvonne Ndlovu said: “Your response is very mature, Kairo, and also people should learn to ask how things are done rather than just blaming and complaining all the time, continuing to work hard, baby gal, and securing your future.”
Derek Chikovore posted: “You nailed it, l don't know if someone could have explained better than that, well done Kairo.”