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 

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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.

The post How a Fortuitous Friendship Helped Change Sanele the Recycler’s Life  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

In a heartwarming tale of kindness and community, Hester Hoffmann went above and beyond to make sure that a man, new to the streets, wouldn’t have to call them home for long:

Melville, South Africa (04 March 2024) — One Saturday morning, Hester Hoffmann noticed a man wandering around a parking area in Melville. At first, she didn’t think much of his wondering and assumed he was waiting for someone. But after spotting him looking somewhat displaced a few more times, she decided to approach him. At the time, she had no idea how important that decision to go up to him would be.

Hester discovered that his name was Chris Swartz, an electrician who had found himself calling the streets home for the past few days after he had “lost everything”, as she shared.

Chris had already been through a lot in those days; including being attacked. The kind security guard had helped him then, and now it was Hester’s turn.

Reaching out to the I Love Melville community group, Hester began sharing Chris’s plight and hopes for his larger community to help him get back on his feet again.

Hester’s biggest concern was getting Chris to shelter given his condition as a diabetic and a heart condition.

Determined, she met with Chris often, organised a meeting to get him into a shelter, and rallied the community to help however they could!

The only thing standing in the way of Chris’s stay at Ons Oord was the R1,500 minimum amount. To which Hester dealt with the matter like a champion:

“At that stage [of Chris’s meeting at the shelter] I went back in and gate crashed the meeting and said to the Dominee, “Listen, I can’t commit to a R1500 pm or sign a debit order, but I can tell you that I WILL find 20 people in Melville who will be prepared to give R75 each month. Please can you help him?”

Brilliantly, the Melville community (who have been on a roll of good news recently) came together to help pay for Chris’s stay at Ons Oord!

Thanks to their pledges, Chris was accepted into Ons Oord which led to many happy tears in Melville, especially from Hester.

With Chris safe and sound at a place where he can live and work with others so long as his minimum stay fee is looked after, he now faces a new trajectory of hope.

Their story reminds us of just how powerful paying attention to someone can be, and it’s that light that can guide them home.

Sources: Submission; Hester Hoffmann

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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.

The post How Determined Hester Made Sure Chris Wouldn’t Have to Call the Streets Home appeared first on Good Things Guy.

South African piano prodigy Jason Haas has just received a surprise gift during a Drakensberg Boys Choir concert, showcasing the power of community and determination.

Johannesburg, South Africa (03 March 2024) – Jason Haas’ story of passion, perseverance, and the power of community captured the nation’s attention, and now we have the update you have all been waiting for! The 15-year-old piano prodigy’s journey from the keys of his grandmother’s piano to desperately trying to crowdfund for his own instrument, to the stage of the Drakensberg Boys Choir School embodies the essence of musical magic.

From the tender age of 4, Jason’s fingers danced across the keys of his grandmother’s old piano, captivated by the melodies that seemed to unlock a world of possibilities. With no formal training, he defied the odds and began playing complex classical pieces by ear, showcasing a raw talent that left audiences in awe.

Jason’s mother, Leanne Haas, a single parent, beams with pride as she reflects on her son’s journey. “I am extremely proud of Jason’s accomplishments and his ‘Go-getter’ attitude in life,” she shares.

Despite facing challenges and growing up without a father figure, Jason’s resilience and determination have been unwavering. Driven by his passion for music, Jason took the initiative to launch a crowdfunding campaign, aiming to acquire a secondhand baby grand piano but the donations have been very slow to trickle in.

His story caught the attention of the nation when it was featured by Good Things Guy, sparking a wave of support and goodwill.

“Desperate for a piano of his own to practice on, Jason set up a BackaBuddy account to help fund this dream. The Good Things Guy learned of his story and featured him in an article that went viral.” – Drakensberg Boys Choir.

“A Drakensberg Boys Choir family, which came across the article, was deeply moved by his story, passion and dedication to his music and decided that they could help make his dream a reality.”

But all of this was happening without Jason or Leanne knowing.

Megan Dittberner, a Drakensberg Boys Choir School mom, contacted Good Things Guy to ask us to connect them with the family in order for them to gift him the new piano, but the school wanted it to be special, so a plan was set in place.

The Bertacco family, alongside Dragonview Lodge and FLaVR SA, came together to provide Jason with a keyboard, accessories, and a memorable stay at the picturesque Champagne Valley.

The school invited Jason and Leanne to one of their concerts which would take place on the 2nd of March. The Haas family agreed (and were very excited to go). It was their first time visiting the beautiful Champagne Valley and the Drakensberg Boys Choir School. In between the harmonious melodies, Jason was invited to perform alongside the choir, unaware of the extraordinary gift awaiting him.

“It was ABSOLUTELY, NOTHING SHORT OF AMAZING!” Leanne told Good Things Guy.

“I was sobbing throughout Jason’s performance. I was just the proudest mom, in that moment. Seeing my son on that stage, I knew that this was a life-changing experience for him.”

As the concert reached its crescendo, Head Boy Kayden Mulder and Grade 8 chorister Michael Dittberner unveiled the heartfelt surprise – a keyboard, specially gifted to Jason to nurture his musical journey.

The gift from the Drakensberg Boys Choir is absolutely amazing. Jason is very, very thankful. We just want to say THANK YOU to everyone who contributed to this.”

“I am so humbled and thankful to everyone for the generosity and kindness they have shown us. The Drakensberg Boys Choir community, the Bertacco family and the owners, the managers Richard and Julie, and the staff of Dragonview were amazing. Everyone was just amazing”

The Drakensberg Boys Choir School, honoured to be part of Jason’s journey, wishes him a future illuminated by the harmonies of success.

Good Things Guy cannot wait to see this story unfold and we look forward to bringing you more updates about Jason as he continues to inspire with his talent and tenacity.

Thank you, Jason, for reminding us all that dreams can and do come true!

Sources: Drakensberg Boys Choir | Interview with Leanne Haas 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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.

The post Dreams Come True for Young South African Piano Prodigy appeared first on Good Things Guy.

In incredible international news, a widow who was left a fortune has decided to donate $1 billion dollars to fund medical students’ tuition! Full story:

New York City, USA (29 February 2024) — It’s not every day that a widow receives a billionaire’s fortune. But it’s even rarer to learn that she would make the decision to donate $1 billion (over 19 billion rand) to fund medical students’ tuition. Well, in a literal wealth of good news from New York City, this is exactly what happened thanks to Dr Ruth Gottesman.

Ruth Gottesman is the widow of David ‘Sandy’ Gottesman—a billionaire who made a big part of his fortune by investing in Bershire Hathaway Inc. It is believed that this saw him quietly reach a net worth of around $3 billion in his lifetime.

When David passed away, his wife of over seven decades was reportedly left with the stock David had and instructions.

“Do whatever you think is right with it,” the instructions said as per Forbes.

93-year-old Ruth got to thinking about what she could do and found the answer in her roots. Ruth is a former professor of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, based in New York City’s Bronx. Knowing the institution and its student’s challenges well; Ruth returned to her old professional stomping ground with a once-in-a-lifetime gift: a donation that would change the futures of students in a way that has never been seen before in the United States medical school history. Ruth decided to donate the $1 billion so that medical students would have their college tuition covered. Historically, tuition at the college will now be free; and no student will have to pay tuition costs in the future either! Not to mention, all spring tuition will be reimbursed, as the college shared.

“I am profoundly grateful to Dr. Gottesman for this historic and transformational gift. I believe we can change healthcare history when we recognize that access is the path to excellence. With this gift, Dr. Gottesman will fund excellence in perpetuity and secure our foundational mission of advancing human health,” said Philip O. Ozuah, M.D., Ph.D., President and CEO of Montefiore Einstein.

Dr Gottesman has only added to her legacy of impact with this gift. While she was working at Einstein’s Children’s Evaluation and Rehabilitation Centre, she was a huge force in developing screening and help for children with learning problems. In the ’90s, she began the Adult Literacy Programme and continued her work in treating learning disabilities and, alongside David, created an institution for stem cell research.

Sources: Various (Linked Above)

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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.

The post Professor Donates $1 Billion So Students’ Tuition Will Be Free! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

What do mannequins, art, environmental activism and a passion for humanity all have in common? Artivist Natania Botha and her incredible story:

Global (26 February 2024) — Looking back on it now, artivist Natania Botha’s first important encounter with mannequins was a nuanced note of foreshadowing. Of course, she hardly knew then that one day, the humble task of dressing mannequins at a local retailer would later spark something possibly world-changing—both for the artist and the environment she’s dedicated her life to. But, no good story ever begins with a clearly paved path.

A Backstory Beginning in Brits

A teenager in her hometown of Brits, Natania moved into the ‘real world’ quickly after life’s responsibilities thrust her into the workforce. She had to leave school behind and pick up a job, which meant finishing up her education at night. Said job happened to be at Woolworths, where Natania first met her future canvases—mannequins.

Natania notes a connection to the objects we so often take at surface value. For her, they were and are a “symbolic reflection of the human form.” Not only would they eventually become an imperative part of her craft, but her time at the retailer taught her a unique appreciation for a key seed: visual representation.

Says Natania, “The act of transforming store displays became a canvas for my creativity, laying the groundwork for future endeavours.”

At 19, Natania left Brits behind to make her way to the big city—Pretoria. This was her leap into a new world, a corporate world where once again, inklings of the future presented themselves in subtle ways.

Working in sales as a manager, she was afforded the opportunity to travel and connect her to different ways of life and experiences of humanity, another key seed.

With these two key experiences seeded in her soul, a walk on the beach in Durban’s bluff would plant the third pivotal seed moment and the one that catapulted everything into action.

The Impact Years

“As I strolled along the beach, I was confronted with a distressing sight—the shoreline blanketed in plastic waste,” Natania recalls of the life-changing moment in 2017.

An immediate resolve was spurred in her to address the environmental crisis in front of her, and so she initiated all her might to mobilise resources and citizens and raise awareness.

Natania’s efforts mattered. In fact, they became a movement big enough to earn her recognition from the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA), followed by her later appointment as the Head of Membership.

Her role as an environmental and social change activist had taken form, and soon her touch began to weave its way all over the country and into rooms with global communities of environmental doers and thinkers.

Natania became a voice for South Africa when she represented us at the Africa Youth Conference in 2018 and a crafter of the future when she helped launch the Sustainable Development Goals Classroom.

By 2020, she had sculpted her position in South Africa’s green entrepreneurship support through Indalo Inclusive. Here, she was the brain behind important building blocks for programmes, including a collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) focused on capturing on-the-ground environmental initiatives.

Her accomplishments in environmental spheres grew—she was one of the Mail & Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans and one of 12 Leading Women in CSI in 2021 among others—but these are only glimpses of the mark she’s made when it comes to both social and environmental upliftment.

Come 2022, Natania embarked on another massive journey to document the impacts of climate change for the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Climate Promise. This odyssey took her across the country as far as the Richtersveld, where she spent time documenting and filming the wonders and woes of South Africa.

While she affectionately notes it was not a journey for the faint of heart, it certainly brought about an unending appreciation for South Africa’s diverse landscape.

“The stars at night look so different when you do a cat scan of the universe,” she adds.

Putting the Art in Earth

With her role as an environmental thinker and leader imprinted on South Africa, Natania began thinking about different ways to share the messages guiding her path.

Connecting the dots between visual strength, humanity, the environment and her 2022 adventure, she became enthralled to water her passion for art—the ultimate medium for such multifaceted experiences.

Her voice and experiences married in the form of mosaic mannequins sculptured to the sounds of classical piano. One became 40, and 40 became her first collection—’Reflections of Resilience’.

Much like South Africa’s people and landscapes, the differences in the works —right down to the tiniest mosaic tile—unite them as a collective symphony Natania explains as her heart laid bare. Individually, there are broken pieces like tired parts of a heart working endlessly to restore nature and humanity. But together, they are visual resilience.

Her mannequin masterpieces—a kaleidoscope of colours and textures—you might’ve guessed, are fused with meaning. If you pay attention, you’ll find odes to David Bowie and William Yeats. But mostly, you’ll find an ode to the Earth, present even in her material choices.

“The very materials I utilise reflect a deliberate choice to counter the detrimental impacts of fast fashion…mannequins play a pivotal role in perpetuating this cycle,” the artivist explains, adding that by incorporating antiques like tea cups, vases and plates sourced from around the world and locally, she is able to breathe life into what would’ve otherwise ended up in landfills. 

‘The opus of the collection—The Last Correspondent’—stood as a plea to world leaders for transformation in eco and social justice—just as the mannequins had been transformed. Fittingly, it was presented to the United Nations upon completion.

But, Reflections of Resilience is also a call to all of us.

A prized set of pieces, art patrons, collectors or retail stores who wish to acquire the private collection would not just be supporting an incredible story come together at last but be part of supporting a new one, one that might just change the world.

Reflections of Resilience will be exhibited at Calisto’s Restaurants (Gillview, Goldreef City and Silverstar Casino) where dining spaces will also enjoy their role in transformation as they become immersive art galleries.

• Calisto’s – Gold Reef City – March, 1st – starting at 18:00 pm
• Calisto’s – Silverstar Casino – March, 7th, Starting time: 18:00 pm – This event is a dine-in experience, you can find out more here.
• Calisto’s – Gillview, the week of the 29th of March 2024.

Sources: GTG Interview 

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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.

The post Mannequins Might Change the World: Artivist Natania Botha’s Story appeared first on Good Things Guy.

After a community in Kenton-on-Sea lost a precious teenager, they united to help her family and friends heal in a way Jade would’ve adored. Through Beads for Jade, they have been able to provide grief counselling, community support, and an incredible way to honour Jade’s impactful life:

Kenton-on-Sea, South Africa (23 February 2024) — On 01 January, a small coastal town in the Eastern Cape experienced one of the toughest things any community will go through. A beacon of light named Jade, lost her life at just 16 years old after she was knocked over by a car while crossing the road.

As community member Warren Gibson tells Good Things Guy:

“She was a shining light in the community, it’s affected all of us as she was loved by everyone.

“Jade was loud and friendly. Caring and honest. Kind and helpful. Incredibly creative and hard-working and spent hours beading her own range of necklaces. She was the first at any charity event/fundraiser/community upliftment opportunity.”

When incidents like this shatter a close-knit community, it can be so incredibly tough to put the pieces back together. But, as Warren shares, this community have found a way in a very literal sense.

Jade used to make her own beaded jewellery and sell it in shops like the one Warren and his wife have (where Jade also used to work). Continuing what Jade started, friends of hers began their healing process by beading and being together. All in her honour, bead by bead and piece by piece, they have managed to put together beautiful necklaces while piecing their collective hearts together again.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Beads for Jade (@beadsforjade)

One Saturday, teenagers and adults sat making the necklaces. Soon, it became a weekly thing. Making these pieces of jewellery has honoured Jade in a way her friends are sure she would’ve adored. And by selling them, the makers have been able to provide grief counselling for her family and friends.

Where grief often has a way of isolating us, Beads for Jade is a reminder as to why coming together matters so much.

Sources: Website Submission

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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.

The post Beads for Jade Honour the Bright Life of a Community’s Beacon  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

An unexpected but oh-so heartwarming moment happened in the life of baby bull Phabeni after an ellie mom and daughter duo welcomed him in a way the HERD team never expected:

South Africa (22 February 2024) — Phabeni, the baby elephant orphan, recently experienced a big and unexpected highlight in his new life with HERD—the Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development team.

An oh-so heartwarming moment happened for Phabeni, HERD founder Adine Roode and elephant care-taker, Tigere after an ellie mom and her daughter essentially ‘adopted’ the baby ellie who is still finding his way as the newcomer to the herd.

Phabeni was rescued and brought to HERD’s care in November when he was only 4 months old. Since then, he has experienced a few wonderful, trunk trumpeting moments like putting on weight and meeting members of his new family.

But the recent highlight for the baby came when he was introduced to ellie mom Setombe and her daughter Klaserie.

Setombe, the oldest elephant and ‘head disciplinarian’ is known for not taking on baby elephants, though she is very protective and close with her Kaserie. If we think of Setombe as the head principal at school and Phabeni as the mischievous new child, the moment shared between them becomes even more special.

Captured on video, little Phabeni initially fed on female Lundi who is now comfortable with the baby bull. But towards the end of the video, where he tries his luck by suckling on Klaserie (who wasn’t sure how to feed properly), Setombe steps in, and something incredible happens.

Setombe let Phabeni suckle and welcomed the little one in a way the team had never seen from her before. Further, Kalserie was also determined to have time with Phabeni, marking the genesis of a most unexpected bond between the Ellie mom and daughter duo and the bull.

“Never did we think that Setombe would take to a new orphan in this way. Setombe followed Phabeni everywhere, even reversing to catch up to him. Setombe has never welcomed new babies like this and has always been purely hyper-focused on her own daughter in terms of bonding and protecting…this was a window to a new world for us. One that we were so excited to continue looking through,” shares Adine.

“Just when you think you know someone, they turn around and surprise you.”

In other good news for the baby bull, he is also earning a new nickname ‘Big Boy Phabeni’ after his recent weigh-in saw him at 157 kilograms, a big jump from his initial 122 kilograms and even January’s 136kgs!

Watch: The Full Special Moment Between Phabeni and the Ellies

Sources: Adine Roode

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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.

The post Phabeni the Orphan ‘Adopted’ By Ellie Mom and Daughter Duo! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

When a midlife crisis turns into a learner’s lifeline! Dalan Holton’s brave swim to fund a special scholarship at KES has surpassed its goal!

Cape Town, South Africa (16 February 2024) — Dalan Holton’s 50th birthday gift was inspired in many ways. Partly by a midlife crisis, but mostly by what education unlocks and the desire to honour an amazing young man whose legacy lives on in a special scholarship.

Combining all of these notes of inspiration, Dalan decided to push himself to do something most wouldn’t have at the top of their birthday lists—a frosty swim from Robben Island to the mainland (Blouberg) to raise funds for a scholarship at King Edward VII School (KES).

A KES Alumni himself, Dalan hoped that his upcoming 50th would splash hope into the lives of a learner who needed it; with the funds set to fuel the Daniel Lopes Memorial Scholarship.

A special scholarship inspired by an even more special person, the scholarship honours Daniel Lopes, who lost his life at just 12 years old. Daniel is described to have been an excellent student and young man. Now, his legacy is a beam of hope for others. A matter close to home, Dalan had been good friends with Daniel’s father since their days at KES; adding another element of the feels to his brave endeavour.

Just two and a bit days ago, Dalan’s campaign had not yet reached its target, despite the big dive drawing closer by the hour. However, in a massive stroke of goodwill, community members were as inspired by Dalan’s effort as Dalan was inspired by what the scholarship could mean for someone.  As such, not only has the fundraising goal of R50 000 been reached—which will cover half the tuition for a financially distressed learner at KES for the duration of their high school career—but the goal has also been surpassed at R64,977.29!

For Dalan, this has certainly made his birthday wish to turn a “seemingly crazy 50-year-old’s midlife crisis into a lifeline for young minds” true, and his community couldn’t be prouder.

Sources: BackaBuddy 

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The post Dalan’s Swim for a Special Scholarship Surpasses Fundraising Goal! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

5 dogs who were part of a group rescued from the Cambodian dog meat trade have made it safely to Cape Town thanks to animal heroes FOUR PAWS and TEARS. Now, the next part of the mission hopes to safely home them!

Cape Town, South Africa (16 February 2024)—Global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS in collaboration With TEARS Animal Rescue have done something awesome in the space of international rescues. Thanks to their team-up, a heartwarming mission is giving 5 dogs a chance at life and love in Cape Town after they were rescued from the Cambodian dog meat trade.

Gamora, Shadow, Falcon, Drax, and Maximoff are part of the 61 dogs that safely arrived at Cape Town International Airport on Valentine’s Day. The hope now is that they will each find their loving forever homes with the help of the TEARS Adoption Team!

These dogs were part of a group of 61 who, in 2021 had their lives saved from some of the most tragic circumstances. Per FOUR PAWS, a minivan had been carrying the live animals to a slaughterhouse in Cambodia; almost a year after authorities had banned the trade of dog meat. Local authorities luckily intercepted the vehicle, and soon called on FOUR PAWS to assist with the rescued animals.

“This was an exceptional case due to the situation on site. Adoptions of stray animals do not have a long tradition in Southeast Asia and are only slowly establishing themselves,” says the organisation.

“In the case of the 61 dogs seized in Cambodia, only 31 have found a new home locally. To ensure that the animals quickly find a loving home after their traumatic experiences, FOUR PAWS through its offices globally decided to place these animals in those countries as an exception. Some of them went to Switzerland and the United States.”

In more good news, all the other dogs have found their new homes. Now, it’s the last five’s turn.

“These five dogs are ambassadors for dogs who remain in those circumstances, and for other dogs in South Africa and globally that are subjected to cruelty. FOUR PAWS remain commited to implement humane and sustainable dog and cat population management programs in South Africa where we support communities and partners to participate in our stray animal management solutions,” adds Fiona Miles, FOUR PAWS Director in South Africa.

The five dogs are the only ones still searching for homes, and hopes are high that Cape Town will give them exactly that. They have all received a clean bill of health but will be kept in quarantine between 7-14 days as part of the standard travel regulations for dogs travelling between countries. The TEARS kennel can be contacted on 021 785 4482!

As for Four PAWS, the organisation has been pivotal in making the ban happen after working closely together with the Cambodian government since 2018, and continues the fight to end the dog and cat meat trades for good in many ways, like:

• Supporting political lobbying and engagement in our target countries [Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam] and internationally
• Improving public perceptions at both national [target countries] and international levels
• Working with international and national health and veterinary authorities to highlight the public health risk posed by the dog meat trade
• Supporting local organisations through their Southeast Asia Partnership Program who are working tirelessly to end trafficking in their communities
• Working with the tourism industry in and outside destination countries to identify and highlight the risks that the dog and cat meat trade poses to travellers and local communities
• Implementing humane and sustainable dog and cat population management programmes in Southeast Asia and supporting veterinary training wherever possible to ensure the success of such programmes

You can show your support to end the dog and cat meat trade here.

Sources: Supplied; FOUR Paws 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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.

The post 5 Dogs Rescued From Cambodian Dog Meat Trade Land in Cape Town! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Not your everyday midlife crisis, Dalan Holton’s Robben Island crossing swim in celebration of his 50th hopes to fund the Daniel Lopes Memorial Scholarship at KES for a student facing financial hardships!

Sandton, South Africa (13 February 2024) — Upon approaching the ‘Big 50’, KES Alumnus Dalan Holton from Morningside started thinking about what he could do that would make the milestone birthday that much more significant than a midlife crisis. Soon, the idea of charging through frosty waters to fund something as important as someone else’s education began swimming through his mind.

For some, a midlife crisis might mean fast cars or embarking on adventures you’d always dreamed of. For Dalan, it means combining adrenaline with heart, which is exactly why he has signed up to tackle a frosty swim from Robben Island to Blouberg!

“Now, before you question my sanity, let me assure you there’s a method to my madness,” says Dalan. 

“This aquatic adventure isn’t just about proving that I’ve still got it at 50. It’s about something much bigger. I’m raising funds on BackaBuddy for the Daniel Lopes Memorial Scholarship.”

When Dalan was at KES (King Edward VII School), he forged a lasting friendship with Antonio Lopes, with whom he swam, graduated and remained friends long after their school days.

When Antonio’s son, Daniel, tragically passed away when he was just 12 years old on account of a freak accident in December 2018, it left a huge void in the hearts of those who knew him.

One big way Daniel was honoured was through the founding of the Daniel Lopes Memorial Scholarship.  Daniel was someone who excelled in academics and sports during his time at school, and paying his life tribute through a hugely significant scholarship was only fitting.

Given Dalan’s close connection to the family, it only made sense for him to raise funds for the KES scholarship. As to why he chose this frosty swim, Dalan shares that it is symbolic.

“[The frosty swim is] a journey of endurance, hope and remembrance, much like the journey of the students this scholarship will support.” 

R39,800.74 has been raised already, with an ultimate goal of R50 000 which will cover 50% of KES tuition fees for the entire high school career of a student.

“Your donation can help turn this seemingly crazy 50-year-old’s midlife crisis into a lifeline for young minds dreaming of a brighter future,” Dalan adds. 

With just under two days to go until his swim on February 15, Dalan draws closer and closer to the 7.5 kilometres in waters known to challenge even the toughest swimmers. Dalan has been hard at work training under the guidance of his coach, Cyndi Starr, and has prepared alongside training partners Andy Johnson and Suzette Prinsloo to get to the point where he is ready to dive into action.

He also hopes that the challenge will inspire his 5-year-old daughter to help others and follow her passion.

In a note of advice that can resonate with all of us, Dalan shares:

“Be active and push yourself. Find something you love and then excel at it, stretching yourself but finding joy in the process every step of the way. If you can find a way for the thing you love and are good at to add value to other people’s lives—do that!” 

You can find Dalan’s campaign here. 

Sources: Supplied

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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.

The post KES Alumnus to Celebrate 50th With a Frosty Swim for Education appeared first on Good Things Guy.