Thanks to an old, discarded coffee machine, Lisette and Sanele, the recycler, had the fortune of crossing paths. But this was not any friendship. For Sanele, it meant having someone to believe in him and in turn, inspire him to get off the streets—which he did! All the feels:

Johannesburg, South Africa (07 March 2024) — For Sanele Tolashe, a fortuitous friendship with Lisette Datnow did not just mean having a new person to call a friend. Sanele credits Lisette as the reason his life changed, and the reason he is no longer a street recycler.

Sanele and Lisette met thanks to an old coffee machine that Lisette’s son Michael had discarded back in 2020’s early lockdown.

“Somehow it was fortuitous that I saw [Sanele] pick the machine up and he said he was going to have coffee every morning like normal people,” Lisette recalls.

Every Tuesday, Lisette, Sanele and his late friend Lucky would chat when they came by to recycle items. Lisette began helping with cardboard collections from her office.

When the community worked on an upgrade project across the road, Sanele was in on the helpful action. This led to Lisette and her friends collecting new T-shirts, industrial safety boots and gloves for him, and at the handover, he and his friends and Lisette and her friends all sat in the park and talked. People from completely different worlds, weaved together with kindness and respect.

“These were people who were down on their luck, but good, decent people,” says Lisette. 

The friendship continued from there, and Lisette learned more about Sanele’s life, slowly becoming more than a friend, but someone who encouraged him with unwavering determination.

Sanele had a good life growing up in Carletonville but shares that things changed after his father and mother died. Despite going to school, he wasn’t able to finish his diploma due to financial reasons. After he found work, things changed again when the company closed. This led him to recycling, the streets and eventually, to ‘Miss Liz” as he affectionately calls Lisette.

“That’s when my life changed, because she saw me as a person with potential to change my life around and by that she always encouraged [me] to never give up and always hope for the better,” says Sanele. 

He adds that after spending time with her, he became inspired to get off the streets.

“I packed my things and told myself I’m not gonna live the rest of my life living in the streets.”

Sanele moved in with one of his brothers and got a job as a cashier—the beginning of many more moments he is proud of.

“I was delighted and have followed his progress since,” Lisette shared, adding that they are still very mouch in touch. 

Lisette was key in rallying for Sanele to further his studies (the same momentum Liz had shown before for Sandisiwe who needed spectacles for her studies). Despite the fundraising not panning out, Sanele is now happily working at a construction company.

“I’m grateful to have met Miss Liz because without her, maybe I would still be living in the streets eating unhealthy food from the bins. That’s why I love her has my mother.” 

Lisette’s message to others is to show up with kindness, avoid being presumptuous about others’ circumstances and help where you can—even if it’s striking up a conversation or giving a recycler a colourful bin so the sorting process is easier.

“Only in South Africa can you get this type of friendship. To ask people to “BE KIND” and treat everyone with respect. You don’t know their story or their struggles. Recyclers are trying to make an honest living…if everyone can just be kind, this world would be a better place.”—Lisette Datnow. 

Sources: GTG Interview 

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Ethan Frosler joins the University Sports South Africa national side at the African Games in Ghana this month and it’s a dream turned reality!

Gqeberha, South Africa (07 March 2024) – Rising cricket star Ethan Frosler aims to keep things simple when he strides out onto the oval for the University Sports South Africa national side at the African Games in Ghana this month.

The continental showpiece takes place in Accra from March 8 to 23 and the fast-bowling all-rounder from the Bay believes an uncluttered head will stand him in good stead with bat and ball.

Frosler was one of the Madibaz students who stuck up their hands to be counted at last year’s USSA tournament.

His five-wicket haul against the University of Johannesburg, a match-winning effort, was particularly impressive.

It had been all about rising to the occasion in Cape Town for the 21-year-old.

“The week for the team was tough and we did not get the results we wanted,” Frosler admitted.

“But whenever the team needed me to step up and deliver with the ball, I just tried to give it my all.”

His efforts were recognised by the selection committee and his inclusion in the SA team ultimately left him “shocked and excited”.

“Walking to the stage I think I just smiled all the way because it meant so much to me.”

The mechanical engineering student from Gqeberha, who will be capped next month, bowled his first ball in anger for the Madibaz in 2021.

“My modus operandi at that stage was to learn from the senior players and soak up as much information as I could. This led to my game gradually maturing over the years.

“One of the biggest lessons I have learnt is that keeping it simple is better than trying to overthink and complicate things.”

Focusing on lapping up the moment and not trying to think of outcomes is the mindset he hopes will serve him well in Ghana.

His selection has motivated him to give his cricket career a go and therefore he sees the Games as a stepping stone to bigger things.

“Receiving this sort of recognition has definitely spurred me on because it has pushed me to work [even] harder. I think I speak for all sportsmen and women when I say it’s amazing when the hard work pays off.”

With the ability to introduce variety into his bowling while producing yorkers, seemingly at will, Frosler has a knack for bowling at the back end of limited overs matches.

“But I also know that I need to find greater consistency with the new ball at the start of the innings, so those are the sorts of things I will continue to work on.”

For now, the soon-to-be graduate wants to stroke the ball to all four corners of the field while troubling the very best batsmen with his nippy deliveries at the African Games.

As simple as it gets.

Sources: Full Stop Communications

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Footprints 4 Sam recently helped makeover the Paediatric Outpatient Department at the Rahima Moosa  Mother and Child Hospital in Johannesburg.

Johannesburg, South Africa (07 March 2024) – It’s a well-known fact that the best way to feel good about yourself is to help others. Melissa and Fred Platt turned their personal tragedy into a way to touch and change lives in a positive way. Recently, they helped makeover the Rahima Moosa Paediatric Outpatient Department.

When their son Sam passed away in 2016 at just 15 and a half months, after spending his entire short life in hospital, they founded Footprints 4 Sam, a charitable trust committed to making a meaningful difference in paediatric healthcare in South Africa.

“Our goal was to ensure that his bravery and fighting spirit lives on touching hearts and lives and bringing hope, kindness, humanity and dignity into the wards of paediatric healthcare,” says the couple.

One of their most recent projects was the upgrade of the Paediatric Outpatient Department (POPD) at Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital (RMMCH) in Johannesburg. This vital department treats around 60-80 children from the local community every day, but the building was in a dire state due to poor maintenance. The walls were peeling, toilets were broken, and ceilings were collapsing.

This is where the Footprints 4 Sam team stepped in.

“What was meant to be a simple paint job to improve the surroundings ended up being close to a renovation,” recalls Melissa. “We had to scrape down the walls and replaster some of them before we could paint. We also sanded down the benches in the waiting area and made the reception more welcoming.”

A cleaning team was brought in to deep-clean the consulting rooms. The floors were stripped and sealed and the bathrooms repaired and cleaned.

“We’re also planning on adding some vibrant pictures and signage, as well as interactive play areas to keep the little ones busy while they wait to see a doctor,” says Melissa.

After two long months of hard work and dedication, the results are amazing. Dr Tyla Malherbe expressed her gratitude to Footprints 4 Sam.

“The POPD is our home away from home and now it’s a brighter and happier space for our young patients and their families, as well as for the amazing doctors who work here.”

Over the years, Footprints 4 Sam has also completed other key rooms and wards in the hospital and in the last financial year, two registrar rooms at RMMCH, a safe space for young healthcare professionals to rest and recharge in the hospital were beautifully renovated.

“We believe that supporting the well-being of patients, parents and healthcare professionals is vital. A well-rested and emotionally supported healthcare professional is better equipped to look after their young charges, and by enabling self-care, we can support improved patient outcomes,” explains Melissa.

The completed rooms offer two sleeping areas, study spaces, individual kitchenettes and a shared bathroom with a shower.

This year Footprints 4 Sam continues with its ambitious goal of realising its Dare to Dream campaign. Footprints 4 Sam has been actively working towards raising the funds needed to renovate the neonatal ICU at Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital in commemoration of the hospital’s 80 years of service. Their goal… R80 Million.

“This crumbling old lady is the only mother-and-child hospital in the country,” says Melissa. “We want to restore her to her former glory and to make a difference to the lives of the people who work here and the children who are treated here. We know that with the support of caring South Africans we can continue to grow our initiatives and touch many more lives in meaningful and tangible ways.”

How can you help? Donate your time, skills, money, and sporting abilities to leave footprints for Sam.

“Each footprint is an imprint of change in precious lives and we encourage and appeal to all donors and suppliers to choose a project that speaks to their hearts and to consider allocating their financial contributions or time to a selected project,” concludes Melissa.

For more information visit footprints4sam.org and click on the donate buttons.

Sources: Supplied

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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After a 19-year-old stunt biker went to collect takeout, he suffered a terrible accident that fractured many bones in his face. This could’ve left him with permanent damage for the rest of his life if it wasn’t for a community of Good Samaritans who made his urgent surgery possible in the nick of time!

Vereeniging, South Africa (06 March 2024) — Aidan Roos, a 19-year-old from Three Rivers, Vereeniging, and a promising stunt biker with aspirations to showcase his skills in China, suffered a life-altering accident last month.

A seemingly routine outing for takeout took a disastrous turn when he slipped on a wet floor, and his face collided with a balustrade, causing severe facial injuries that abruptly halted his dreams.

But, in an incredible turn for Aidan and his family, his broader community came together just in time to help Aidan get the urgent surgery he needs; setting him on the road to both recovery and his dreams.

A series of initial misfortunes led to Aidan being unable to get his treatment sooner. Initially, he was sent home by the hospital as they were unable to proceed with the operation due to swelling. This led to medical aid opting not to cover his plight as they only cover up to 24 hours after a trauma, according to his Aunt Lynette Smith.

Everything changed for Aidan after that. His mom, Roeline Botha expressed that it has “brought  his bright future to a standstill.”

While his mom tried other means to raise funds, Aunt Lynette took to share Aidan’s story and create a crowdfunding campaign dubbed ‘Aidan needs surgery’ on 13 February.

“We urgently need to raise R100 000 for Aidan to have surgery on his face, because the surgery needs to be done by no later than 19 February, otherwise he will be left with permanent damage for the rest of his life,” Lynette wrote.

In timing that can only be described as miraculous, funds poured in in the thousands and the initial target was met!

Thanks to this mind-blowing display of community kindness, Aidan was able to receive surgery to address the fractures in his facial bones. Considering that his face was broken in five places, this marked a pivotal moment in his journey to recovery.

With follow-up scans, MRIs, and aftercare afoot, the Good Samaritan community is still rallying for Aidan. R119,000 has been raised toward the fundraising target of R160,000, and hopes are incredibly high that the young stunt biker will have his life back soon.

Aidan’s mother, Roeline, expressed her heartfelt gratitude, stating, “From the bottom of my heart, I just want to thank everyone for their generosity, love, and support, and most of all, for everyone’s prayers.” The funds raised have already made a significant impact, securing Aidan’s chance at a healthy, normal life.

You can help Aidan and his family conquer the rest of the target via BackaBuddy!

Sources: Supplied; Zane Groenewald

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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The University of Johannesburg has announced a new scholarship, the Mpedi Neurodiversity Scholarship which will help make research in a very underserved field more accessible!

Johannesburg, South Africa (06 March 2024) — In an effort to further research in the field of Neurodiversity Studies, the University of Johannesburg has initiated its Mpedi Neurodiversity Scholarship thanks to UJ Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi and his family!

Professor Mpedi is a parent to a neurodivergent son. From his son, the professor has witnessed both the unique intelligence and systemic challenges neurodivergent people face. Knowing that learning more is the first step to creating a more fitting society, the Neurodiversity Scholarship hopes to help more students who want to explore the largely untapped topic a Master’s level, with a emphasis on the neuro-develeopmental learning needs of children and youth.

This will hopefully play an important role paving the way to a South Africa that shifts to help neurodivergent people flourish instead of them having to simply make their way through a society that by systemic design, often doesn’t consider them.

UJ shares:

“The scholarship represents more than a financial aid program. It symbolises the commitment by UJ to address global challenges in the field of neurodiversity. The scholarship aims to facilitate meaningful research that contributes to a more inclusive and understanding society.”

For Mpedi, there are many areas where the system does not serve neurodivergent people. Legal systems do not safeguard their rights enough, policies are not centred around inclusivity and nurturing environments where neurodivergent people’s perspectives and capabilities are not acknowleged enough.

For him, it is about seeing the differences that neurodivergence entails not through the lens that paints them as defective, but as a variation of the human experience.

Students have already been awarded the scholarship. Nthabiseng Molebatsi, Ntokozo Zwane, and Mohamed Mosala are all researching topics related to Down Syndrome. Each is examining different topics, including parents’ experiences in providing support and transitioning from home to school.

Sources: University of Johannesburg 

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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An incredible show of sportsmanship was placed on full display in a recent cricket match between Rondebosch Boys and Bishops.

Cape Town, South Africa (06 March 2024) – A recent school cricket match ended in a very great result for all; the draw may have been an even split, but it was the sportsmanship that was the win for the day.

Parent Tori Hoffmann contacted Good Things Guy to share a beautiful act of sportsmanship she witnessed over the weekend. She joked that having watched school cricket for the past 5 years, she still doesn’t understand the sport but there was no mistaking what took place at the end of the match.

“On Saturday, I witnessed something that I understood clearly – an “incredible act of sportsmanship by the keeper of the Bishops team,” as stated by Stephen Gersowksky on the Bishops Diocesan Facebook page. While rival school Bishops and Rondebosch Boys’ 2nd XI team were playing against each other on the Cricket A field at Rondebosch Boys High School in the Southern Suburbs, Stephen’s son (who was batting for RBHS at the time) was the recipient of the wicket keeper’s remarkable act of kindness.” – Tori Hoffmann

Stephen commented that his son was on the verge of hitting a century but at 98, he was on the final ball and only managed to get one run.

“He was on 98 not out with the last ball of the day to be bowled, hit the ball to midd off for one and turned for the second run when half way back for the second run the keeper gathered the ball and instead of removing the bails, he allowed my son to get back and get his 100” – Stephen Gersowksky

Stephen watched on as his son ran the final run, getting his 100 for the day – all thanks to the kindness and good sportsmanship of the opposing team’s wicketkeeper.

“This young man’s act should be celebrated and acknowledged as much as the 100. You are a true gentleman young man and thank you on behalf of my son and I for your act of human kindness”

Jane Vincent responded to Stephen’s comment to let him know that her son had performed this act of kindness.

“Thanks so much for acknowledging our son sportsmanship!

He is an incredible young boy that we so proud of especially his amazing sportsmanship and passion for cricket thanks and well done on 100″ – Jane Vincent

Stephen managed to capture the moment on camera and shared it on the Facebook thread here. The most heartwarming part of all was the two young men hugging at the end of the match.

Sources: Tori Hoffmann / Bishops Diocesan College

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A Grade 9 Kingswood College pupil snapped a photo in Port Alfred that’s left South Africans in awe. The heartwarming part? People loved it so much they are encouraging her to enter it into competitions!

Port Alfred, South Africa (06 March 2024) — A Grade 9 Kingswood College pupil has left South Africans in awe after she captured Mother Nature at her finest in the Eastern Cape’s Port Alfred.

Shared by her school, Siré Schoncken’s photo captures a bolt of lightning, rolling waves and a looming grey cloud on a deserted part of the beach.

Beyond the breathtaking photo, there’s heart to this story in just how encouraging South Africans were in their responses to the budding photographer’s moment in the lightning light. On social media, comments ranged from backing Siré to enter her work into a competition all the way to nods of agreement that this student has a future in photography.

Siré’s mom Desica shared that her daughter is “beyond excited about the reaction of her photo.”

Captured on a Samsung phone camera, locals can’t wait to see what this budding photographer might be capable of with professional gear.

In any creative field (especially for young creatives), encouragement can be the difference between giving your talents a go or pushing them to the side. And seeing how many strangers were so kind to a young talent made our hearts very warm today.

Sources: Kingswood College

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Artist Rizah Potgieter has been hard at work creating Mitchell’s Plain’s Longest Mural—an ode to community pride and marine life awareness.

Mitchell’s Plain, South Africa (06 March 2024) — Artists, volunteers and community members have all played their part in helping make Mitchell’s Plain’s longest mural possible.

A legacy in blue, the ‘longest mural’ (also known as the Poseidon Mural) seeks to bring a sense of beauty, calmness and awareness to Mitchell’s Plain. In an big way, its breathtaking size makes the topic of climate change and its impact on our oceans hard to ignore with sea characters on vibrant display. In even bigger ways, it stands to show people the beauty that their area can call home; cultivating a sense of community pride and responsibility.

Led by mural wizard Rizah Potgieter who was also behind another iconic mural last year (“Standing Tall”, a 22-metre high mural in Khayelitsha that captured netball player Phumza Maweni), the Posideon project was a collaborative effort that saw many people unite for its creation.

 

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A post shared by Rizah Potgieter (@prefix66)

PAINT, an artivist organisation on a mission to transform neighbourhoods and non-profit ArtBridge teamed up to ensure that Mitchell’s Plain’s Longest Mural would become something for Cape Town to be proud of. For the team, this wasn’t singularly about marine life awareness or art’s positive impact on communities, but both in unison.

Says Mikal Ernest Bell, Founder of PAINT, “The initial objective was bringing the two communities together, this will therefore be the culmination. The artwork on either side of the wall has greatly contributed in bringing about peace in these two communities that has been ravaged by crime and gang violence.”

The more we make the hard topics accessible and the more we let art bring people together, the better chance we have for a South Africa that understands that no matter where you come from or what challenges you’ve faced, you can still make an impact on our future.

Sources: Various (Linked Above) 

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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500 people, including 200 children, got the chance to have their hearing tested recently for World Hearing Day.

Atteridgeville, South Africa (06 March 2024) – The collaborative efforts of the University of Pretoria, hearX Foundation, Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and hearX Group brought about a highly successful World Hearing Day event in Atteridgeville, marking a significant milestone in community health involvement.

Drawing over 500 community members, including over 200 young children who received hearing screenings, the event underscored the critical necessity for accessible ear and hearing care. It also showcased the power of collaborative effort in addressing global health challenges.

Prof De Wet Swanepoel from the University of Pretoria, alongside Tersia de Kock from the hearX Foundation, set the stage with insightful addresses that emphasized the importance of healthy hearing and its foundational role in fostering communication, relationships, and overall quality of life. The high participation rate mirrored WHO’s concerning estimates that one in five people are currently affected by hearing loss, a figure expected to rise to one in four by 2050. This stark reality underscores the urgency of scaling up ear and hearing care services globally, especially in underserved communities like Atteridgeville.

The University of Pretoria students, supported by volunteers from the hearX Group, were instrumental in the day’s success, providing screenings that not only identified those with potential hearing loss but also offered a gateway to further care and support. This initiative not only served as an educational platform for the students involved but also as a testament to the impactful outcomes that can be achieved through the synergy of academic knowledge and practical application.

Tucker Bbosa from CHAI illuminated the significance of the new partnership project aimed at integrating hearing screenings in early childhood development centres, highlighting the critical role of early detection in mitigating the long-term effects of hearing loss. This initiative, among others presented during the day, illustrates a forward-thinking approach to healthcare, where prevention and early intervention are prioritised.

The event centred on the theme “Changing Mindsets” with the aimed to dismantle the stigma around hearing aids and promote a more inclusive understanding of hearing care. In highlighting the reluctance commonly linked with hearing aids and comparing it to the more readily accepted use of glasses, the speakers advocated for a shift in perception that recognises hearing aids as essential tools for enhancing life quality.

The involvement of key stakeholders, including representatives from the Department of Education, the Department of Health, and the Kalafong Hospital Audiology Department, further emphasized the collaborative approach to healthcare advocacy and service provision. Their presence was not just ceremonial but a pledge of ongoing support and commitment to hearing health initiatives.

Reflecting on the event’s success, it was evident that the concerted efforts of the University of Pretoria, hearX Foundation, CHAI, and the hearX Group have not only raised awareness about the importance of ear and hearing care but also laid the groundwork for sustainable health interventions in the community. The overwhelming turnout and the proactive engagement of the community members served as a powerful reminder of the latent demand for such essential health services.

Looking to the future, the Atteridgeville event on World Hearing Day has set a benchmark for community-driven health initiatives, proving that with the right partnerships and community involvement, it’s possible to overcome the barriers to accessible healthcare. This model of collaboration, education, and action provides a blueprint for addressing not only hearing health but also other pressing global health challenges, demonstrating that change is possible when communities, professionals, and organisations unite towards a common goal.

Sources: UP – Supplied

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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The Penguin-Pals Project is going to help so many penguins get the help they need thanks to Betty’s Bay residents who have volunteered to transport penguins to rescue facilities! Not only will they be playing a helpful role as penguin ‘Uber drivers’, but they’ll also be saving rescue staff a lot of time.

Betty’s Bay, South Africa (06 March 2024) — The Southern African Foundation For The Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) is getting a helping hand from the Betty’s Bay community thanks to residents who have volunteered their time to be part of the Penguin-Pals Project!

SANCCOB is responsible for rescuing and rehabilitating many of South Africa’s seabirds. But, there are only so many staff members. Journeys to assist penguins in need often mean many hours on the road, which in turn leaves staff members unable to help other seabirds while trekking these distances.

As Tim Elliot of the Betty’s Bay Conservancy (BBC) shares:

“Up until now SANCCOB have had no option but to send one of their own staff from Betty’s Bay all the way in to Tableview, in Cape Town, in the event of an injured or sick penguin or other seabird. Everyone at the Stony Point Nature Reserve has enough on their plate without sitting in a vehicle for the three hour plus round trip.” 

This is where the Betty’s Bay community have decided to help lighten the load of responsibility. As part of BBC’s Penguin-Pals Project, residents have offered to share their time and transport any struggling seabirds to Somerset West—a big chunk of the distance that will undoubtedly help staff members save on time and transport expenses.

Training was underway in late February for the Penguin-Pals’ volunteers.

“There was a lot of enthusiasm and excitement at the prospect of being involved and being able to help constructively,” adds Tim. 

This initiative displays not only how a little help can go a long way (quite literally), but also sets the path for future Penguin-Pals Projects outside of Betty’s Bay! Word at the colony is, SANCCOB may also need some volunteers in Gordons Bay too, so don’t be afraid to spread the word!

Sources: Betty’s Bay Conservancy

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