South African breweries have just shown Africa (and the world) that our craft beer scene is stronger than ever, bringing home a bucketload of medals from the 2025 African Beer Cup.

South Africa (28 May 2025) – South African craft brewers have plenty to celebrate after a stellar showing at the 2025 African Beer Cup, the continent’s largest beer competition.

Local breweries clinched dozens of medals across a broad range of categories, from classic lagers and ales to innovative sour beers and even mead, cementing South Africa’s prominent place in Africa’s flourishing craft beer scene.

This year’s competition featured nearly 260 brews from 14 African countries, all vying for top honours. An international panel of expert judges evaluated the entries over several days in Cape Town, ultimately awarding medals to the best beers in each category and crowning one overall champion. By the end of the awards ceremony, South African breweries had earned an impressive haul of gold, silver and bronze medals, including the prestigious “Best Beer in Africa” title for the second year running.

Leading the South African triumphs is Soul Barrel Brewing, a boutique brewery from Franschhoek, which once again clinched the Best Beer in Africa award. Soul Barrel’s Wild African Soul, a collaboration with Apiwe Nxusani-Mawela of Tolokazi Beer, was the gold medal winner in the African Speciality Beer category and also beat out every other beer in the competition to claim the overall top prize.

This unique beer blends a traditional sorghum umqombothi with a farmhouse ale and ages it for two years in wine barrels. The result is a complex, soulful brew that wowed judges.

“Winning Best Beer in Africa three times shows the world just how exciting African beer can be. Winning with a beer based on umqombothi sends a message that South Africa has a fascinating beer culture, and at Soul Barrel we aim to tell its story,” said Nick Smith, founder of Soul Barrel.

Apiwe Nxusani-Mawela added, “On behalf of Tolokazi Beer, I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition for Wild African Soul… This award is a true reflection of our dedication to crafting distinctly African beers — celebrating our heritage and embracing the richness of indigenous knowledge.”

This marks the second year in a row that a South African beer from Soul Barrel has taken the top title, making them the only brewery to have won Best Beer in Africa three times. In addition to the overall trophy, Soul Barrel picked up more medals, including gold for Ale of Origin and silver for Live Culture.

Celebrating South Africa’s Medal Haul

South African breweries of all sizes, from independent microbreweries to major beverage companies, shone across nearly every category of the African Beer Cup. In total, South African brewers brought home dozens of medals, with standout performers like Richmond Hill Brewing Company (RHBC) earning five awards from five entries.

“We are very pleased with our performance as all the beers we entered won an award,” said RHBC brewmaster Niall Cook.

Other familiar names like Afro Caribbean Brewing Company, Jack Black’s, Darling Brew, Woodstock Brewery, and Hazeldean Brewing Co. also claimed multiple medals. Big players Heineken (Sedibeng Brewery) and AB InBev joined the winner’s list too, proving excellence across the board.

The variety of styles South African breweries excelled in is striking – from classic Czech lagers and British bitters to hazy IPAs, wild ales, spiced beers and beyond.

Here’s a snapshot of the top South African wins:

(Dozens more silvers and bronzes were also awarded across styles and regions.)

From Cape Town to Gqeberha, Joburg to the Winelands, the awards spanned every corner of South Africa, highlighting the strength of our national brewing scene. Whether it was experimental fermentation or classic brewing mastery, South African brewers showed their skill, creativity and dedication.

A Brief History of the African Beer Cup

The African Beer Cup launched in 2019, founded by Lucy Corne and Shawn Duthie to recognise and celebrate excellence in African brewing. Africa had been the only continent without a continental beer competition… until this one came along.

What began with 150 beers from 11 countries has grown each year. In 2025, nearly 260 beers from 14 countries entered the competition. New categories have been added to embrace African traditions, including beers brewed with indigenous grains and mead.

Held annually in Cape Town alongside BeerEx Africa, the cup has become the continent’s most prestigious beer competition, fostering collaboration and raising the standard of brewing across Africa.

All beers are judged blind by certified professionals. Each entry is evaluated by two panels independently and judged against strict international style guidelines. Medals are only awarded if a beer meets the threshold… meaning no guaranteed golds or silvers unless the beer earns it. Every gold-medal winner moves to a “Best of Show” round, where the Best Beer in Africa is crowned.

Each year, the overall winner is awarded a specially commissioned artwork, a unique way to honour the artistry of craft beer.

This year’s success proves that South Africa is not just participating in the craft beer movement, we’re leading it. Our brewers are creating world-class beers rooted in local heritage, pushing boundaries and proving that African flavour belongs on the global stage.

Sources: African Beer Cup 

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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 South Africa Dominates 2025 African Beer Cup with Record Wins appeared first on Good Things Guy.

What do a green silk gown and a moody 1997 portrait have in common? They both just made history, putting South African art where it belongs… right at the top.

Johannesburg, South Africa (28 May 2025) – It’s been a record-breaking season for South African art… and not just once, but twice.

Last night, a portrait painted in 1955 became the centre of attention (and applause) at a packed Strauss & Co auction in Johannesburg, where Vladimir Tretchikoff’s Lady from the Orient sold for a staggering R31.9 million. The sale set a new world record for the Russia-born South African painter ans also sparked pure celebration within the local art community.

With 89 rapid-fire bids, the drama unfolded between an anonymous telephone bidder and an in-room contender, the kind of back-and-forth you’d expect in a blockbuster film.

Auctioneer Alastair Meredith could feel the energy climbing as he called out, “We’ve breached the $1 million mark,” later adding, “The next bid is R25.2 million, which is something I have never said.” And just a few bids later, the hammer came down – history made.

Lady from the Orient, featuring Valerie Howe – a Cape Town grocer’s daughter swathed in a green silk gown – is a standout example of Tretchikoff’s signature Technicolor style. It’s bold, it’s glamorous, and it’s pure 1950s drama. The piece is part of a powerful legacy of works created after Tretchikoff moved to South Africa in 1946 and it clearly still captivates today.

But wait… there’s more.

In what can only be described as an incredible double win for South African talent, another artist from our shores recently also made history, this time on the international stage. Marlene Dumas, the iconic painter who studied Fine Arts in Cape Town, smashed the record for the highest auction sale for a living female artist this week in New York. Her 1997 painting Miss January sold for an astounding $13.6 million (that’s nearly R250 million!) toppling the previous record held by British artist Jenny Saville. What makes this moment even more special is the decades-long journey Dumas has walked. From showcasing her work in the ‘70s with little attention to becoming one of the most celebrated artists in the world, Marlene has built a career rooted in both technical mastery and emotional power.

Together, these two moments are reminders that South African art is not just alive and well… it’s thriving. It’s reaching global stages. It’s shifting the conversation. And that’s something truly worth celebrating.

What a moment for South African creativity. What a win for the world.

Sources: Strauss & Co | Marlene Dumas 

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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.

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For 15 years, social enterprise Taking Care of Business has helped thousands of single mothers start their own businesses and take their lives out of poverty, all through the power of the circular economy.

South Africa (25 May 2025) — South African social enterprise Taking Care of Business (TCB) is celebrating 15 years of impact thanks to the power of collaboration and the circular economy.

Many individual good news stories have come from the TCB programmes detailing entrepreneurs who were able to triumph over the clutches of poverty thanks to the skills and opportunities TCB offers.

TCB works by teaming up with retail partners who contribute excess or dead stock to the social enterprise. From there, that stock becomes a lifeline for impoverished people, mainly single South African mothers.

Different programmes are up for offer, namely Resell, Repair and Remake. In each programme, participants learn important life and business skills to run their own businesses!

Leveraging the circular economy in this way means that landfills are no longer a first resort for dead stock while people are uplifting in the process. Additionally, the approach to competitors acting as partners (competitor collaboration or ‘co-opetition’ has helped provide a shining example for retailers to see the efficacy of teaming up for the betterment of communities.

Having sustained this effort for 15 years and to the point where 7800 informal entrepreneurs have generated over R559 million in profits is a huge achievement not just for the founders, Tracey Chambers and Tracey Gilmore, but also for South Africa at large.

“We are proud of all we have achieved, but mostly we are grateful to all our partners for their ongoing support without which none of this would be possible, and to our participants who work hard to eradicate poverty in their families. It has been a journey that we could never have imagined when we took that first step. Making change is hard work, but it is worth it. When we take care of small businesses, people can take care of their families and live with dignity.”—Tracey Chambers.

Sources: Supplied 

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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.

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What started as a bold idea in a dusty field is now an industry shaking up South Africa’s agricultural landscape. Saffron is now being grown in South Africa!!!

Western Cape, South Africa (24 May 2025) – Every now and then, a story comes along that makes you stop, smile, and think, yes, this is the kind of innovation we need more of! That happened this week when Oranjezicht City Farm and Market shared a brilliant post about a man named Bennie Engelbrecht and his incredible local initiative… and suddenly, saffron is on everyone’s lips.

Yes, saffron. That delicate golden-red spice that feels more like treasure than seasoning.

The world’s most expensive spice is now being grown (successfully) right here in South Africa. In the dry, sun-scorched soil between Williston and Calvinia, on land that most had written off for anything other than sheep farming, a revolution is quietly blooming.

And it all started with a dream.

Back in 2013, Bennie Engelbrecht founded Saffricon, driven by an idea that might’ve sounded impossible at the time: what if South Africa could become a player in the global saffron market?

Bennie did his homework. He spent years researching why saffron, which thrives in Mediterranean climates, hadn’t taken off here yet. What he uncovered was surprising: not only could it grow here, it could flourish. Especially in areas devastated by drought.

The Karoo, particularly the Hantam region, became the heart of this project. A place that, in the Khoi language, literally means “where the red bulbs grow.” Fitting, right?

Historically, the local economy was built around sheep. But with an eight-year drought strangling farms and leaving communities desperate, it was clear: something had to change. Saffron, it turned out, could be that change.

“This country really needs something that can turn people’s lives around,” says Bennie. “Saffron can be planted on a small piece of land and could potentially change your life.”

You only need a quarter of a hectare to start. And the potential return is as much as R250,000 per kilogram at retail. Yes, you read that right. A single kilo of this so-called “red gold” could put food on the table, fund a child’s education, or help a struggling family get back on their feet.

But it’s not just about the cash crop… it’s about the community.

Saffricon has launched an empowering Outgrower Programme, a three-year initiative designed to bring emerging and rural farmers into the saffron economy. The model includes:

• Free saffron corms (bulbs)
• Hands-on training and mentorship
• Guaranteed buyback of both threads and corms
• Fast-growing plants — flowers appear just 40 days after planting
• Job creation through labour-intensive harvesting

Add to that the fact that saffron only needs 250–300mm of water a year, compared to 500–800mm for crops like maize or wheat, and you’ve got a water-wise solution tailor-made for South Africa’s climate. And the beauty of saffron doesn’t stop at its value. Every part of the plant has a purpose. The vibrant threads are used in cooking, the petals are used in cosmetics and medicine, and the corms multiply underground, becoming the farmer’s lasting asset.

It’s a crop made for resilience. Frost-resistant. Hail-resistant. And because the valuable part is underground, it’s less vulnerable to theft, a serious challenge for many South African farmers.

Corné Liebenberg of Laeveld Agrochem, a project partner, says it best: “Saffron grows in areas where other crops fail. This is a real opportunity – not only for big farms but also for smallholders looking for something new, something with real potential.”

The global demand for saffron already outstrips supply. South Africa has the climate, the skills, and, thanks to people like Bennie, the vision. All we need now is awareness and support. Thankfully, posts like those of the Oranjezicht City Farm and Market are doing just that!

The internet loved this story as much as we did… and the comments say it all.

“Such an awe-inspiring story & a blessing for South Africa. When people work together & share knowledge they can create great things.”

“Congratulations Bennie Engelbrecht!! Phenomenal good and uplifting news. Wow, we need you multiplied infinitely. Brilliant initiative and thank you for perseverance and appetite for new innovative crops. Feel good story!!”

“This is definitely good news and a wonderful initiative that can create employment opportunities in rural areas. Great job.”

This weekend, Bennie and the Saffricon team are showcasing their beautiful, locally-grown saffron at the Oranjezicht City Farm Market in Cape Town. And if you’re in the area, go. Ask questions. See the product. Support something extraordinary that’s growing in our own backyard.

This isn’t just about spice. It’s about resilience. It’s about innovation. And most importantly, it’s about South Africans finding new ways to thrive, even when the odds are stacked against them.

Because sometimes, the most powerful things grow from the hardest ground…  and sometimes, they bloom purple.

Sources: Saffricon South Africa | Oranjezicht City Farm and Market 

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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 Saffron is Blooming in the Karoo… And So Is Hope! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Marvel and Malunghelo started with a second-hand computer and a vision. After capturing South Africa’s hearts, the NOVAR app built by the Limpopo duo now has R1 million and the tools to expand… thanks to a movement born from kindness.

Johannesburg, South Africa (20 May 2025) – Two young innovators in Limpopo are proving that determination and community spirit can change lives.

Marvel Shibambu and Malunghelo Mathonsi grew up in a small, under-resourced village in Limpopo but from that humble beginning they taught themselves to code and built NOVAR, a social-media style learning app offering free lessons, videos and news for high-school students.

Their story captured the nation’s attention after a TikTok by Cool Story Bru went viral, and South Africans rallied behind them, donating over R160,000 in crowdfunding. Now their journey has reached a thrilling new milestone. Liberty Group’s #DriveHope initiative has awarded Marvel and Malunghelo R1 million in funding to scale up NOVAR and realise their vision of free education for all.

NOVAR: An EdTech Innovation from Limpopo

NOVAR was born out of adversity and ambition. With no formal training or proper computer equipment, Marvel and Malunghelo pooled R700 saved from odd jobs to buy a second-hand PC and teach themselves programming. They built NOVAR to improve education for students like themselves, creating an app that is essentially a social-media style feed filled with educational content. Today the platform divides content into hubs… from short video lessons to news and exam guides, all curated and uploaded by the founders. In just a few months, NOVAR has been downloaded tens of thousands of times by eager learners.

The tipping point came when popular content creator Cool Story Bru shared their story. Within days, donations flooded in, crowdfunding quickly surpassed R120,000 and climbed to over R160,000.

@coolstorybru_ These two South African men from a rural village in Limpopo have invented a game-changing app @Shibambu Marvel @Malunghelo 1Drop #southafrica #tiktoksouthafrica ♬ original sound – Cool Story Bru!

As Malunghelo reflected on this outpouring of support.

“We were stunned by how strangers believed in us,” says Malunghelo. “It’s not just about the money – it’s about knowing that our country believes in our vision.”

That national faith is now being amplified by corporate South Africa through Liberty’s #DriveHope.

#DriveHope: Liberty’s Grassroots Initiative

So, what is #DriveHope? Something that we (at Good Things Guy) are incredibly proud to be part of. We have been there since the start of 2019 when Liberty’s digital marketing executive Karen Denny came across a heart-rending Facebook post from a woman in need. Inspired by Jeremy Mansfield’s Christmas Wish campaign, Denny and her colleagues began granting small wishes within Liberty for struggling employees and neighbours. When COVID-19 struck, the programme opened to the public, allowing anyone in crisis to be nominated for help.

Five years on, #DriveHope has grown into a nationwide movement of compassion. To date it has contributed over R3.4 million in ‘random acts of care’ across the country. Through this platform, Liberty has funded everything from medical costs to food parcels, helping thousands of families, students and entrepreneurs.

The NOVAR funding is a perfect fit… it combines Liberty’s commitment to financial empowerment with education and youth development.

“A key purpose of Liberty is to uplift communities and support local innovators,” says a Liberty spokesperson, Rindy Janse Van Rensburg. “Marvel and Malunghelo are shining examples of South African grit and creativity. Through #DriveHope we are thrilled to empower their vision for NOVAR. This is more than just a donation, we are offering mentorship and long-term partnership to ensure their success.”

But Liberty’s support for NOVAR has indeed gone far beyond money. Rindy explains that the people within the #DriveHope group really go above and beyond.

“Amelia Beattie had the vision, heart and determination to believe in Novar and the team behind it. She is set to guiding, guarding, and journeying with Novar to ensure it reaches the vision that Marvel and Malunghelo have for Novar and education in South African communities, utilising all available resources. In partnership with IBM and the Department of Education, among many other partners who stepped forward, Novar has a powerful team in South Africa, backing them every step of the way.”

The company has opened its doors wide for the young developers. Among the extra gifts and resources provided are:

• Office space at Liberty’s Braamfontein campus: Marvel and Malunghelo now have a desk and meeting room in Johannesburg’s innovation hub, giving them reliable internet and a professional work environment.
• Business mentoring and resources: The pair have been connected with Liberty mentors and SME coaches to develop a sustainable business plan, refine their app’s features, and navigate issues like data costs and partnerships.
• Brand-new Windows laptops: Each co-founder received a powerful new laptop. (Their original computer, the R700 one, served them well, but these fresh devices will help them code faster and add new features to the app.)
• A Checkers voucher to celebrate: To mark the occasion, Liberty gifted the friends a big grocery voucher so they could enjoy a meal and rest amid their hectic schedules.
• Phones for Marvel’s sisters: Seeing that Marvel’s two younger sisters love learning too, the #DriveHope team surprised the family by buying them smartphones so they can use NOVAR themselves.
• Birthday book set for Malunghelo’s daughter: When the team learned that Malunghelo’s little girl is a voracious reader, they arranged a set of educational storybooks as a birthday gift, nurturing her curiosity.

These personal touches reflect #DriveHope’s ethos: helping not just an idea but the people behind it and those they care about.

When Marvel thinks back on the past weeks, his eyes fill with gratitude. “We are overwhelmed,” he says, “to see how people from all over South Africa, and Liberty too, have embraced our dream. We started NOVAR to help learners, and now our country is helping us. Education should never be a privilege; it should be a right.”

His co-founder smiles in agreement: “With this support, we can focus on improving the app full-time. We have so many ideas, more lessons, live tutoring, better downloads. This is just the beginning.”

Even the #DriveHope team members are touched.

As Rindy recalls: “Meeting Marvel and Malunghelo was deeply inspiring. They didn’t ask for handouts, they asked for help in spreading knowledge. We felt proud to provide more than funding. I still remember handing Marvel his new laptop and feeling the weight of what it meant. We made sure his sisters got phones so they wouldn’t miss any content, and we packed a set of books for Malunghelo’s daughter. It reminded us that giving hope is personal, and every small act can change a life.”

Marvel and Malunghelo’s story is proof of what can happen when a community (from TikTok followers to corporate initiatives) rallies behind young innovators. After all the challenges they have overcome, these two friends now carry the hopes of thousands of learners.

As Malunghelo puts it: “We were just two boys with a dream in a village, and look at how our country has come together to back us.”

Their journey is a powerful reminder that good news and kindness are contagious. It shows that, in South Africa, talent and hard work can be lifted by collective belief. With Liberty and #DriveHope by their side, the future of NOVAR looks brighter than ever.

As Rindy concludes, “I am so privileged to #DriveHope, I can’t tell you how much it inspires me. I really hope this motivates other South Africans to do good to those around them. We need to be the change the world needs to see in the world.” 

This emotional chapter celebrates community, collaboration and the endless potential of South Africa’s youth. And it leaves all of us more hopeful than ever.

Sources: Information compiled from Good Things Guy interviews and reports on the NOVAR app and Liberty’s #DriveHope programme, supplemented by direct quotes from the NOVAR founders and programme representatives.

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 TikTok, a Dream And Now R1 Million Boost: NOVAR App’s Journey Inspires a Nation appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Forget Wagyu in Tokyo or Tomahawks in Texas…  two South African spots have just carved their names into steak history!

South Africa (16 May 2025) – South Africa is on fire with pride this week as two local steakhouses have cracked the 2025 World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants list.

Stellenbosch’s acclaimed VUUR took 87th place, and Johannesburg’s butcher-to-table The Blockman landed at 97th. It’s a thrilling achievement that has chefs, diners and the whole country beaming. After all, being ranked alongside the world’s very best is a hugely exciting vote of confidence in our home-grown talent.

VUUR (Stellenbosch)

Perched at Remhoogte Wine Estate in the Winelands, VUUR (Afrikaans for “fire”) lives up to its name with theatre-style open-fire cooking. Chef-owner Shaun Scrooby is a self-taught fire-master who uses up to six different types of wood to smoke, char and flame-roast each dish. The team crafts a seasonal seven-course menu showcasing the best local meats, seafood and veg, and every course is cooked on the spot and served at the table with stories from the chefs. Scrooby himself sums it up: “Fire cooking is still the name of the game.” No wonder VUUR – once a cozy old stable under a giant oak – has been hailed as Africa’s top meat destination.

Fun fact: VUUR’s new “Goose Island” outpost sits on a tiny dam island reachable by a little bridge, named for the Egyptian geese that used to live there.

The Blockman (Johannesburg)

In leafy Parkhurst, The Blockman is a steak lover’s paradise built around whole-animal butchery. Owner-chef Vassilios (Basil) Holiasmenos is both a trained chef and a butcher, and his philosophy is refreshingly simple and honest: “source ethically, butcher in-house, cook over coals and let the meat speak for itself.” Prime South African beef is all cut and aged on-site. From thick, dry-aged rib-eyes to lesser-known heritage breeds… and diners can even choose their steak from a big glass-fronted ageing room.

Each cut is cooked over wood coals and served with only salt and a touch of fat, letting the natural flavour shine. The Blockman’s menu also features clever seasonal sides (think ember-roasted carrots, bone-marrow bread and crisp salads) and a proudly South African wine list. It’s a warm, convivial space, exposed brick, glowing candlelight and gentle music, where the primal thrill of steak takes centre stage.

These nods on the global list are huge news for South Africa’s food scene. Not only does it shine a spotlight on our chefs and farms, it shows the world that South African steak and hospitality belong on the international stage. Both VUUR and The Blockman use local ingredients and time-honoured techniques, proving that innovation and quality are alive and well here.

Diners nationwide are celebrating. Many have already jumped online to book a table and taste the magic for themselves. It’s a joyous reminder that every braai and grill session is part of a proud culinary tradition.

Congratulations to Shaun, Basil (and all the teams) for this sizzling achievement. We couldn’t be more thrilled for you!

Sources: World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurant’s list 

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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.

The post SA’s Sizzling Success: Two Local Steak Spots Named Among World’s Best! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Savvy with Samke season two has been filled with deeply motivational conversations, inspiring not only Profmed clients but general viewers, too! The team is excited about the release of the season finale today.

South Africa (15 May 2025) – Powerful and inspiring conversations were the focus in Season 2 of Profmed’s “Savvy with Samke”; season finale viewers will get to learn valuable lessons about the dos and don’ts of social media. The final episode of Savvy with Samke, released today, focuses on how to build a standout digital identity while avoiding common pitfalls.

Social media lawyer Emma Sadleir and marketing expert Asha Singh share the opportunities and risks of online footprints and how to make smart social media decisions. In an age where almost everything revolves around social media, having the best tools in your personal kit will help you reach new heights.

Much like Emma and Asha’s insights into personal social media skills, season 2 has been an incredible addition to Profmed’s portfolio of support for viewers and professionals alike. With all eight episodes now out, it is evident that the conversations have hit home for South African professionals.

The team celebrated over 80,000 views just on the season trailer, and the rest of the episodes keep growing daily. This season explored subjects that matter most to professionals, including:

• The hidden pressure behind professional success and how to protect your wellbeing.
• Real stories of surviving illness, loss, and financial strain, and the tools that helped.
• Reclaiming your sense of self while raising a family and managing career goals.
• From classism to gender discrimination and unpacking what still holds professionals back.
• Should you stay or go? The emotional and practical realities of the emigration decision.
• How to own your online reputation wisely.

Samke Mhlongo, an award-winning wealth coach and best-selling author, and co-host Charmaine ‘Miss Chaz’ Dube, a dynamic conversationalist and seasoned tech professional, kept guests and audiences engaged throughout the season and have reaffirmed the importance of having these conversations in the first place.

In the professional world, it can often feel like discussing some of the struggles faced in the working environment is taboo, but not anymore! Mental wellness, typical life challenges, and so much more affect us beyond home life, so it is vital to talk about how to balance it all out.

If you missed any of the episodes, you can catch up on all of them on the Profmed YouTube channel.

Sources: Profmed

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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 Profmed’s Season 2 of Savvy with Samke Has Been A Hit With Professionals appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Two young men from a tiny Limpopo village just reminded South Africa what’s possible when passion, purpose and a second-hand computer collide. We sat down with the founders of NOVAR.

Limpopo, South Africa (12 May 2025) – In early May, a heartwarming story from Limpopo captured the nation’s attention. An educational app called NOVAR, developed by two self-taught friends, went viral after a TikTok video by the popular account Cool Story Bru showcased their journey. What happened next was nothing short of inspiring. South Africans rallied together, donating over R160,000 to help the young developers grow their dream.

We sat down with the founders of NOVAR to unpack what their app is all about and what’s happened since their overnight fame.

@coolstorybru_ These two South African men from a rural village in Limpopo have invented a game-changing app @Shibambu Marvel @Malunghelo 1Drop #southafrica #tiktoksouthafrica ♬ original sound – Cool Story Bru!

Marvel Shibambu and Malunghelo Mathonsi grew up as best friends in Gumbani, a small, under-resourced village in Limpopo. With no formal training in coding and no proper equipment, they shared a bold vision: to improve education for students like themselves.

“We didn’t even have a computer at first,” Marvel recalls. “We saved up just R700 to buy a second-hand PC and started learning to code from YouTube videos.”

Against all odds, the duo taught themselves programming from scratch and built an app they named NOVAR, aimed at providing free learning resources to high schoolers across South Africa. In just a few months, NOVAR has been downloaded tens of thousands of times by eager learners, proving that their hard work is paying off.

The turning point came when Cool Story Bru, a Cape Town-based content creator known for highlighting uplifting South African stories, shared Marvel and Malunghelo’s journey. The response was instantaneous.

“I actually cannot believe this is happening – we have raised 80,000 rand in 24 hours for the NOVAR app gents!” exclaimed the content creator in a follow-up update.

Donations poured in from across the country as people were moved by the friends’ determination. Within days, the founders’ crowdfunding campaign surpassed R120,000… and it’s now well over R160,000. These funds, they say, will be used to make the app completely free for all learners and to improve the platform’s offerings.

“We were stunned by how strangers believed in us,” says Malunghelo. “It’s not just about the money – it’s about knowing that our country believes in our vision. That encouragement fuels us to work even harder.”

The friends have even begun speaking with potential partners who could help take NOVAR to the next level. Buoyed by the nation’s enthusiasm, they are more motivated than ever to keep improving South African education one download at a time.

@shibambumarvel1Best time to be a learner I guess. let’s get as many people in to the NOVAR app. amazing announcements coming up this week♬ Clouds – Aitan A.I.

What exactly is the NOVAR App? Despite the viral buzz, NOVAR itself remains humble in its current form. Essentially a social media-style feed filled with educational content that Marvel and Malunghelo curate and upload themselves.

“Think of it like an educational community platform,” Marvel explains. “We have different sections for learners to explore.”

The duo say that the app’s interface is divided into several hubs and features. From “short lessons” to news and events.

“Right now, we upload most of the content ourselves,” Marvel says. “We pull together useful videos or create our own mini-lessons to share. It’s all about making learning fun and accessible.”

Some features are still basic, but the founders have big plans to enrich the content as their user base grows.

South Africa is incredibly fortunate to have a wide range of free educational tools available to learners. From national platforms to grassroots innovations, there’s a growing ecosystem of support. NOVAR joins this inspiring list. Not to compete but to contribute.

Speaking with the NOVAR founders, one thing is abundantly clear: their passion for education is infectious. These self-taught developers have faced down many challenges… from unreliable internet to an ageing second-hand computer, yet they never gave up.

“There were nights we felt stuck or frustrated,” Marvel admits. “But then we’d remember why we started this. We want to help even one kid get a better education. That kept us going.”

Now, with thousands of users and an entire country cheering them on, the duo is looking ahead. They plan to expand NOVAR’s content library, bring on qualified educators and mentors and refine the app’s technology.

“This is just the beginning,” Malunghelo smiles. “We have so many ideas… from adding more subjects and exam prep tools to maybe one day offering live tutoring. The support we’ve received makes us believe all of it is possible.”

For Marvel and Malunghelo, it all comes down to a simple belief.

“Education should never be a privilege; it should be a right,” Marvel says.

Their journey shows what’s possible when innovation meets determination. The app might not transform the education system overnight but it has already brought hope and excitement to students and supporters alike.

Perhaps the greatest lesson from NOVAR’s rise is the reminder that good news can bring people together. At a time when South Africa’s challenges often make headlines, this story of two young men from rural Limpopo, armed with nothing but a dream and a donated computer, has inspired a nation to rally behind them. It’s a story of community, possibility and the power of believing in something good. South Africans have opened their hearts (and wallets) to back Marvel and Malunghelo’s vision. And in turn, these founders are paying it forward by empowering the next generation of learners.

That’s the kind of positive cycle we can all celebrate.

@shibambumarvel1NOVAR: A Revolution Born in the Heart of Limpopo NOVAR is more than just an app—it is a dream, a purpose, and a promise born in the humble village of Gumbani in Malamulele, Limpopo. It was co-founded by Shibambu Mikhongelo Marvel and Malunghelo Mathonsi, two extraordinary young men shaped by their environment but driven by a vision far greater than their circumstances. Growing up in a rural village, Mikhongelo Marvel knew hardship intimately. His school had cracked chalkboards, no science labs, and no stable access to internet or technology. But his spirit was unshakable. He rose above, becoming not only a top learner at his school, but one of the brightest minds in his district and province. Yet, even as he excelled, he watched his classmates fall behind—not because they lacked potential, but because they lacked opportunity. Haunted by the inequality he witnessed, Marvel made himself a quiet promise: no child should ever be left behind simply because of where they were born. NOVAR is the fulfillment of that promise. It’s his way of rewriting not just his own past, but the story of thousands of learners across South Africa. By his side stands Malunghelo Mathonsi, a self-taught software developer with a heart as big as his dreams. From the same dusty village paths, Malunghelo taught himself to code using borrowed devices and public Wi-Fi spots. His love for technology was fueled by one thing: the desire to solve problems that matter. Together, these two visionaries became co-founders of NOVAR. NOVAR is an innovative, online learning platform built to give every learner—no matter their background—access to world-class education. With zero funding, no presence yet on iOS due to limited resources, and against all odds, NOVAR has already crossed 35,000+ downloads on the Google Play Store. The app is being used by over 5,000 active learners daily, many of whom rely on it as their lifeline to learning. But beyond numbers, NOVAR is a movement. A symbol of what can happen when resilience meets purpose. When rural dreams refuse to be silenced. When two village boys dare to believe that they can build a global education giant—from nothing but hope, grit, and faith. Marvel sees NOVAR as more than a business. To him, it’s redemption. It’s healing. It’s a love letter to every forgotten learner, every dusty classroom, and every teacher who tried their best with too little. It’s about giving today’s learners the future he once wished for himself. The journey is just beginning. NOVAR is not just changing education—it’s changing lives.♬ Ordinary – Alex Warren

Sources: Interview with Marvel Shibambu and Malunghelo Mathonsi 

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 From Limpopo to the Nation’s Heart: The Viral Education App Built on R700 And Hope! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Before the crowds cheered and the jerseys were worn with pride, it was Champion Moms who saw greatness long before the world did.

South Africa (11 May 2025) – While stadiums roared and rivalries ignited across the pitch this weekend, Carling Black Label did something different. Just ahead of one of South Africa’s biggest football moments, the brand took a step back from the goals and glory to pay tribute to the women behind the scenes… the mothers who raised champions.

This Mother’s Day, Carling released a powerful new video across its digital platforms, turning the spotlight onto the hearts and homes where true greatness begins. As part of its ongoing Champion Moms initiative, the brand partnered with two players from Soweto’s iconic football clubs, Mduduzi Shabalala and Thalente Mbatha, to honour their mums in a way that’s deeply personal and incredibly moving.

Before Mduduzi wore the Amakhosi jersey, he was a young kid with a ball and a dream. His mother remembers how that dream first began to show itself.

“We bought him so many shoes. But there were always holes in them,” she recalls. “That’s how we knew — wherever he was, he was playing football. That’s where it all began.”

For Thalente’s mother, her son’s journey was marked by a name that carried meaning from the very beginning.

“When they asked me what I would name him, I just said Thalente,” she says. “I don’t know why. I think it was my way of manifesting that he would be talented.”

These reflections form part of a heartfelt digital tribute that blends quiet, personal moments with words that resonate across generations. In one scene, Mduduzi surprises his mother at home:

“What are you doing here?” she asks.

“I came to visit you,” he replies.

Her response is brief but full of history.

“Thank you so much for everything you have done for the family. I love you.”

“I love you very much,” Mduduzi answers.

A similar moment unfolds between Thalente and his mother.

“Is it really you?” she asks with disbelief. “I am very proud of you and the person you have become.”

To which he replies: “You are my champion too, Ma. I love you.”

You can watch the emotional video below:

The content piece is part of the broader Champion Moms campaign, which invites South Africans to reflect on the most impactful advice or encouragement they’ve received from their mothers. Throughout the week, selected messages from fans will appear on digital billboards across the country, turning everyday public spaces into living love letters.

Kerryn Greenleaf, Brand Director for Carling Black Label, explains the campaign’s purpose: “We live in a country where mothers are the first teachers, the first believers, the first protectors. This campaign isn’t about football glory, it’s about the unseen work of mothering, and the words that keep us going long after we leave home.”

In the final moments of the video, respected commentator Baba Mthethwa delivers a closing line that echoes well beyond the screen.

“A mother’s love is unrivalled. End of the story.”

This Mother’s Day, Carling Black Label reminds South Africans that greatness begins at home — and that every champion we know was raised by one.

To share your own #ChampionMom words, visit Carling Black Label’s social media pages.

Sources: Carling Black Label 

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 Champion Moms: The Real Heroes Behind South Africa’s Football Stars! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

When life pushed Ethan and his mom to the edge, a small shelter in the Western Cape pulled them back with open arms and a whole lot of love.

Western Cape, South Africa (10 May 2025) – Sometimes a story wraps itself around your heart and won’t let go. This is one of those stories.

It starts in a family shelter in Somerset West, an incredible shelter in the Western Cape that supports single parents and couples with children. But this isn’t just a story about shelter… it’s a story about resilience, about hope stitched together by community and about a young man named Ethan who’s preparing to represent South Africa on a global stage.

Ethan and his mom, Michelle, have been living at the Somerset West Night Shelter’s Family Shelter for a while. Life hasn’t been easy. Michelle has been navigating ongoing health challenges, which have made full-time work near impossible. She’s still waiting for approval on a disability grant but that hasn’t stopped her from giving her all. She helps wherever she can in the shelter, especially in the kitchen, showing up for her community with a quiet strength that often goes unseen.

Her son, Ethan, is the kind of young person who makes you believe in a brighter future. With the support of the shelter and the incredible team at MPower Learning Centre, he’s currently completing his GED, a huge step toward self-sufficiency and building a life beyond survival.

Marlene, who leads the MPower team, first met Ethan two years ago and instantly felt a deep connection. She’s never charged a cent for his private education. Let that sink in. Not a cent. Because sometimes love looks like a textbook and a maths lesson and showing up, week after week, to remind a young person that they matter.

But Ethan’s story doesn’t stop at the classroom door. He’s also part of a group called Yes Ya Yebo through the Imibala Trust Foundation, an initiative that celebrates South African culture through storytelling, music, and dance. And now Ethan is preparing to board a plane to the United Kingdom and Scotland to represent South Africa – to sing, to dance and to tell stories that reflect where he comes from. It’s a dream so big and so beautiful that it makes you pause.

“This journey means a lot to me,” Ethan wrote. “And I look forward to every moment.”

He’s already raised funds to cover his passport and visa and the community is rallying to help him with a few essentials, clothes (he’s growing like a Boeing!) and small travel needs. The shelter is suggesting mall vouchers or direct donations to help make this adventure possible.

Since 1988, the Somerset West Night Shelter has been offering far more than a warm bed. They’ve created space for healing, for growth, for new beginnings. Their work now includes skills training, transport, education, health support, baby care and coaching, all tailored to help individuals find a fresh start and a sustainable future.

As they put it: “We are like an extended family for the time that they need it most.”

And that’s exactly what Ethan and Michelle have found, a family that believes in them. A community that champions second chances. And a team that is offering support and building futures.

Ethan’s journey is only just beginning, but it already speaks volumes: that even through hardship, with the right people in your corner, anything is possible.

If you’d like to help Ethan take this next step, reach out to the Somerset West Night Shelter. Every voucher, every small donation and every bit of encouragement adds up to something powerful.

Sources: Somerset West Night Shelter 

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 The Power of One Community: How a Family Shelter is Changing Lives! appeared first on Good Things Guy.