Young Greek Australian Journalist Uses Art and Words to Tackle Tough Topics, Wins National Awards

Thirteen-year-old Greek-Australian cartoonist and middle school student Madison Eve has a powerful message for the world: young people need to speak out. And she's leading by example.

For the second year running, Madison has won News Corp Australia's Kids News Junior Journalist Newsroom competition, claiming both the Junior Journalist of the Year and News Reporter of the Year titles.

Madison's striking articles and illustrations tackle complex issues head-on, depicting the crises of domestic violence, excessive screen time, and the rising cost of living. Her work combines insightful reporting with compelling visuals, making these important topics accessible and engaging for a young audience. "I believe young people should speak out and stand up against all forms of violence," Madison passionately stated. This commitment to social justice shines through in her award-winning portfolio.

Her family hails from Crete, and she credits the COVID-19 lockdowns with sparking her passion for writing and drawing. She cites renowned Australian cartoonists Mark Knight and Michael Leunig as major influences on her artistic style. Madison's younger siblings, 11-year-old Alexandra and 9-year-old George, also contributed to the Kids News project and received recognition for their efforts. This family affair highlights the power of young voices and the importance of encouraging the next generation to engage with the world around them.

News Corp Australia’s Community Ambassador, Penny Fowler, praised Madison's creativity and her dedication to addressing important social issues.