From recording captivating covers of her favourite artists in her bedroom to becoming the first-ever female South African artist to be featured on the Spotify Single Programme, rising musician Lusanda is set to amplify her voice on a global scale!

Johannesburg, South Africa (28 May 2025) – Rising South African singer and songwriter Lusanda Ngcbo, who goes by the mononym Lusanda, has emerged as the first-ever female South African artist to be featured on the Spotify Single Programme with her rendition of Mad World!

Born in Durban and raised in Johannesburg, Lusanda didn’t set out to be a singer. In fact, for most of her life, the 24-year-old artist thought her future was in dance.

Her earliest memories are those filled with music and movement. In her Spotify profile, she shares about growing up dancing (a classically trained ballerina since age five), playing marimbas, and singing in choirs before eventually enrolling in choreography studies at the University of Cape Town. Music was always in the background, but it wasn’t until she started posting TikTok covers that her voice found its way to the forefront.

Lusanda initially captured the internet’s attention through a series of TikTok covers that showcased her smooth vocals and talent for merging R&B with pop, rap, and Amapiano genres.

In 2023, a particularly spontaneous upload, a cover of Outkast’s iconic song Hey Ya, signalled a new phase in her life. The video swiftly went viral, racking up millions of views in just a few weeks and attracting offers from music producers.

Spotify Single is a global initiative that provides artists with a platform to create and share original music recordings, including reimagined versions of their own songs and covers of songs they admire.

Lusanda, known for her emotionally resonant vocals, transforms Gary Jules’ version of the Tears for Fears classic into something uniquely her own and infuses Mad World with a deeply personal and distinctly South African essence.

“I wanted to add colour through my voice,” Lusanda states, and she accomplishes this with remarkable clarity and control, solidifying her position as a standout voice from the region. 

With more original music forthcoming, Lusanda is set to take the South African music scene by storm.

Sources: Spotify

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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 Lusanda Makes History with South Africa’s 1st Spotify Single! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Megan Kilian’s natural charm and “just being herself” during an audition workshop in Johannesburg wowed filmmakers, and now she’s playing a version of herself in a documentary set in a future where the worst predictions from the Paris Agreement have come true!

Mossel Bay, South Africa (28 May 2025) – At just 13 years old, Megan Kilian has landed the incredible opportunity of being selected from a group of 60 children to feature in a European science fiction documentary!

Even though she had no prior acting experience, Megan’s naturally engaging presence and spontaneity during auditions in Johannesburg made her a perfect fit for the role.

The film, titled World of Walls has been directed by Slovakian filmmaker Lucia Kasova and explores life in a near-future ecological crisis – a world where the worst predictions from the Paris Agreement have come true.

Set in a world devastated by environmental collapse, World of Walls follows the coming-of-age journey of 13-year-old children from different backgrounds. The story examines how global inaction on climate change has reshaped childhood and forced young people to confront extreme weather, resource shortages, and migration for survival.

South Africa itself became a bit of a co-star, as the production team chose the country for its real-world parallels to the film’s imagined setting, including power outages and water scarcity, elements which mirror what many scientists predict could become widespread elsewhere if global temperatures continue to rise.

Filming began in Johannesburg, where Megan attended Midstream Ridge Primary School. After her family relocated to Mossel Bay in June 2024, the production was adapted to accommodate the move, with scenes rewritten to follow her story, Curro explains.

“Since it’s a documentary, we don’t have to learn lines,” Megan says.

“We just act naturally and make up our own dialogue as we go. It’s been a lot of fun.”

The film will launch in 2026 across several European countries, including France, Belgium, Germany and the Czech Republic. The trailer has already garnered recognition at FIPADOC in France, a prestigious international documentary film festival.

Sources: Curro

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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 Cape Town Teen Stars in European Sci-Fi Documentary “World of Walls” appeared first on Good Things Guy.

In a stunning showcase of South Africa’s craftsmanship, our very own Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg wowed Miss World judges in India in a gown that celebrated the vibrancy of our nation, embodied unity, innovation, and humble strength!

Hyderabad, India (27 May 2025) – Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg graced the 2025 Miss World South Africa stage over the weekend and did more than just turn heads!

Her breathtaking creation by local designer Juan William Aria, which was a masterpiece that celebrated the richness of South Africa’s natural beauty and cultural soul, won judges over, giving her the World Designer Award!

The Pretoria-born model is currently in Hyderabad, India, where she is competing alongside some of the world’s most influential women to receive the coveted crown of Miss World.

According to Miss World, the award-winning dress was crafted from satin glass fabric and adorned with custom artwork and hand-embroidered motifs; the gown is a vibrant tribute to the nation’s flora. At its heart blooms the Protea, king of all flowers and national symbol of South Africa, embodying unity, innovation, and humble strength.

An overjoyed Zoalize expressed her deep gratitude to the designer, calling the gown “a celebration of who we are as a people—diverse, rooted, and proud.”

With only four days remaining until the new Miss World is announced, a hopeful Zoalize reflects on what has been an adventure of a lifetime.

“I got to share the story of all the wonderful friends and family of my project @nevertooyoungtoadvocate , giving them the light and visibility through the beauty with a purpose initiative had been fulfilling.

“I have felt empowered and supported every step of the way through everyone supporting me here in Hyderabad as well as back home. My gratitude goes out to you all, she said in a recent post.

Zoalize, you’ve already made us so proud!

We wish our current Miss World title holder the very best as she vies for the crown yet again.

Sources: Miss World | Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg 

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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 Zoalize’s Protea-Inspired Dress Wins World Designer Award at Miss World! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

South African actor Davin Beiersdorf has followed his dreams from Langebaan all the way to attending the Cannes Film Festival!

Global (26 May 2025) — Actor and model Davin Beiersdorf has come a long way from the coastal town of Langebaan in the Western Cape thanks to a commitment to following his dreams in the arts. Recently, Davin attended the Cannes Film Festival; any actor’s dream red carpet experience notorious for being the place to rub shoulders with industry legends.

Davin had attended last year’s edition too, however this time he was more prepared.

“This year was better than last year as I knew what to expect,” the young actor shared. “And, I arrived earlier during the festival.”

Davin arrived on the opening night of the ‘Mission Impossible’ premiere on his birthday (talk about a birthday to remember!). He was also personally invited to the debut of ‘Storm Rider’!

For anyone rising up in the industry, opportunities to attend iconic events like Cannes are invaluable. But for Davin, it wasn’t just about standing among giants. It was also about proudly sharing his South African heritage.

“I always have a sense of pride to say I’m from South Africa when asked where I come from,” he says. “Especially now that South Africa has some film studio development in the works that all creatives are looking forward to.”

Davin landed his first lead role in ‘I Hate Pirates’ in 2024 following his participation in theatre production school. Needless to say, Davin is certainly a budding actor to watch as South Africa’s talent continues to impress the world.

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.

The post From Langebaan to the Cannes Film Festival appeared first on Good Things Guy.

I saw aliens, explosions and emotional breakdowns (all before Monday) and now I’m bringing it all to you in this week’s Friday Five (even though it’s Saturday).

South Africa (23 May 2025) – Fridays have a kind of magic to them, don’t they? That feeling of the week winding down, of exhaling just a little deeper, and if you’re lucky, that first sip of something cold or hot as you toast yourself for surviving another five-day rollercoaster.

But around here, Friday means something extra special… it means The Friday Five.

This is your ultimate guide to the things that are bringing joy, spark and flavour into my world… and maybe they’ll do the same for yours. From the big screen to your living room screen, from fresh new tracks to cosy getaways, and of course, a little reminder that kindness costs nothing but means everything… this is the good stuff.

You see, over the years, I’ve been incredibly lucky. I get invited to movie premieres before the general public sees the trailer. I get sent screeners of series not even on local platforms yet. I’ve walked through the doors of restaurants so new they’re still printing the menu. And because of this wild job I get to call my life, I wanted a place to share it all with you.

That place is The Friday Five… my happy little corner to gush, rave, recommend and ramble about all the lekker things worth your time.

So… let’s dive into what’s making me feel all the good things this week:

 Movies you need to see! Friday Five | Friday Five

Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning

I went to watch the new Mission Impossible last week.

But let me be completely honest… I was there for the salt-and-vinegar popcorn. And to hang out with friends. Not for the actual movie.

Mon invited me. And if you know Mon, you know… you don’t say “no” to Mon. She’s a little bit Monica from F.R.I.E.N.D.S. but with Portuguese fire, some Spanish flair and a whole lot of South African spice. We grew up together in the South. That woman would quite literally knife me for missing her call.

And this was serious. She’d lined up a babysitter and made plans (on a Saturday nogal) so when she said “Let’s go,” I just nodded and said “Yes, boss.”

I digress.

I have absolutely no clue how this franchise has managed to drag itself through 8 movies over 3 decades, racking up nearly 20 hours of runtime.

TWENTY HOURS.

Of Tom Cruise doing Tom Cruise.

It’s outrageous. It’s over the top. Implausible. And downright silly.

And yet… I had the best bladdy time.

It’s like adrenaline injected directly into your eyeballs. I found myself literally slapping my thighs and shouting, “Ag no, come on now! There’s no way it gets more hectic…”

But then it does.

And I think it’s exactly what movies are supposed to be. Escapism. A bit of ridiculousness. A visual “feast” that lets you forget about your to-do list for a few hours.

The stunts are insane. The action is relentless.

And South Africa being a main feature was so flipping lekker.

Look, they mashed up Blyde River Canyon, the Drakensberg and what felt like a sprinkle of Wild Coast in one scene, which is hella confusing for us and makes no sense geographically but it was still a beautiful nod to our gorgeous landscape. And no one will really know it’s not the same place. They’ll just think what I was thinking… that scenery was chef’s kiss.

It was a Saturday. The IMAX was packed. People were clapping, laughing and even squealing out loud. At one point, when they mentioned “Cape of Good Hope, our neighbour shouted out “YES MAN”.

I giggled.

And as the credits rolled, I walked out smiling. Full popcorn heart. Full friendship cup. Not knifed. And one hundred percent fully entertained.

Mission Impossible is a silly franchise. But it is so much fun.

Go watch it (preferably in IMAX).

Now in Cinemas.

Lilo & Stitch (Live Action Remake)

The reviews for the new live-action Lilo & Stitch are streaming in… and ja, some of them are not so lekker.

The Guardian gave it one star. Vulture tore it apart. The AV Club called it “dreadful.” Even Variety said the magic is gone.

But I disagree.

I went to the South African premiere last week, and from the second I arrived, I could tell this wasn’t your usual red carpet night. The venue was filled with the who’s who… and their little ones.

Tiny tots all in tow.

I sat in the theatre and watched the new remake in the eyes (and loudest sounds) of the kids around me. Every moment hit perfectly. Just like it did for me when I was a kid. The kids were giggling. And screaming at the screen.

The oooohhhhss. The aaaahhhhss. And the tears.

By the end, the kids were all clapping.

It made them feel something.

At its core, Lilo & Stitch is about broken people finding each other and choosing to stay. It’s messy and loud and totally imperfect. But it’s about love anyway. It’s about how family isn’t just who you’re born to, it’s who shows up and sticks around.

“Ohana means nobody gets left behind or forgotten”… and that’s the real heart of the story.

And the heart is definitely there.

Lilo & Stitch was never made to impress critics. Especially grown-up ones.

It was made for anyone who’s ever felt a little out of place. A little sad. A little lost. A little too much. It’s for the ones who need reminding that love isn’t always tidy. But when it’s real, it’s everything.

And it was made for a new generation to fall in love with the characters all over again.

So take your kids. Or go with that kid who still lives in your heart. Sit in that cinema, let your guard down and remember what it feels like to believe that no one, not even the strangest little alien, gets left behind…. or forgotten.

Now in Cinemas.

Series to keep your eye on Friday Five | Friday Five

Sirens (Netflix)

A psychological thriller with all the right ingredients: mystery, a lavish seaside estate, complicated family dynamics, and secrets bubbling just under the surface.

It’s about a scrappy sister digging into her sibling’s unsettling relationship with a billionaire boss. But what unfolds is more than a drama. It’s a tense, layered, slow-burn story that sucks you in and doesn’t let go.

It’s CRAZY but totally addictive. And it’ll keep you guessing till the very last episode. Highly recommend for your next binge.

Now on Netflix.

Nine Perfect Strangers – Season 2

We’re back. But this time, Masha’s “wellness retreat” has moved to the Bavarian Alps. Sounds peaceful? Think again.

This season throws nine new characters into the deep end… some of them family, which means their baggage didn’t even need to be packed, it came along automatically. It’s moody. Tense. Introspective.

The first episode doesn’t explode with drama but trust me, the slow simmer makes it even juicier.

Nicole Kidman is hauntingly good. The cinematography is breathtaking. And the plot is deliciously twisted.

Now on Hulu and Disney+.

Music you need to hear Friday Five | Friday Five

Benson Boone – “Momma Song”

A quiet, powerful love letter to his parents that sneaks up on you with all the feels. It’s tender. Raw. And if you’ve ever had a moment of gratitude for your mom or dad, this one will have you in full snot-and-tears mode.

Reneé Rapp – “Leave Me Alone”

Bold. Brash. Brilliant. Reneé is unapologetically herself and this track is pure rebellious perfection. If you’re in a mood to scream-sing in the car, this is your anthem.

Skunk Anansie – “Shame”

YES, millennial me is screaming. The 90s rock gods are back with a new album and their first single? Glorious. It’s like picking up a diary from 2002 but with 2025 wisdom. Heavy guitar, raw emotion, iconic vocals. Go listen.

Places to go Friday Five | Friday Five

Dullstroom – Mpumalanga’s Hidden Gem

Just a couple of hours from Joburg (depending on how many padstals you stop at), Dullstroom feels like you’ve left the noise behind and stepped into a storybook. Think crackling fires, misty mornings, handmade pies, friendly faces and a main road that’s charming in the way that only small towns can be.

It’s the kind of place where your phone signal weakens, but your connection to everything else strengthens.

Here’s what makes Dullstroom worth the trip… especially in winter:

Birds of Prey & Rehabilitation Centre

One of the absolute must-visits. This centre is home to owls, eagles, falcons and other majestic creatures who are either being cared for or rehabilitated after injury. It’s more than just a viewing experience, it’s educational and moving. Watching these powerful birds fly again is an emotional reminder of how recovery is possible… even with broken wings.

The Whisky Bar at Wild About Whisky

Dullstroom is home to the largest whisky collection in the Southern Hemisphere. Yes, you read that right. Whether you’re a seasoned sipper or someone who still says “ew” when you smell it, the tastings are well-curated, informative and weirdly fun. Bonus: they do whisky and chocolate pairings!

Food, Glorious Food

This little town punches way above its weight when it comes to food. Some local favourites:

Harrie’s Pancakes: You cannot come to Dullstroom and not eat here. It’s a rite of passage. Try the cinnamon sugar classic or go wild with the trout and cream cheese.

The Mayfly: Cosy pub vibes, great atmosphere, and proper winter comfort food.

Art of Food: A small, seasonal menu with big, bold flavours. Perfect for date night.

Fly Fishing Capital of South Africa

Even if you’re not into fishing, there’s something calming about standing by the water and watching others do it. If you do want to give it a go, there are loads of places offering gear and quick tutorials. You don’t need to be a pro, just bring patience and maybe a flask of something warm.

Cabin Culture & Cosy Stays

Part of Dullstroom’s charm lies in its cabins, cottages and cosy stays. Many places come with fireplaces, mountain views and deep baths made for wine and long chats. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, family, or solo explorer, there’s something incredibly therapeutic about waking up to soft mist rolling across the hills.

Shops That Still Feel Personal

Walk along the main road and you’ll find bookstores, antique shops, delis and little stores selling everything from handmade crafts to local cheeses. Every shopkeeper has a story. Take time to listen.

And the Weather?

Cold. Often rainy. Sometimes frosty. And completely perfect for woolly jerseys, beanies, boardgames and fireside chats. In a world constantly telling us to go faster, Dullstroom whispers: slow down.

One more thing

People are struggling.

Your neighbour.
That friend you haven’t chatted to lately.
The acquaintance you are connected with on social media.

People are going through the most, fighting massive things (sometimes feeling alone) and just not saying anything.

It’s that first rule of fight club. We’re not supposed to talk about it

Our inbox is a flood of both heartwarming stories and heartbreaking cries for help. And every single one reminds me just how important it is to show up for each other.

I’ve been lucky. This platform has created a beautiful network of helpers. Real-life heroes who are there for each other.

We connect people to support, to stories, to hope.

The truth is donor fatigue is real. Compassion can feel heavy when the need is endless. And it is endless.

But it’s not hopeless.

So this post is just a reminder to please keep being gentle with the world. Be kinder to everyone you meet. Including yourself. Check in on your people. Offer a smile. Share what you can… whether it’s a message, a meal or a moment of your time.

And if you are reading this, and it all feels too heavy, then I want to say that I am sorry. I want to remind you that you are not alone. Have faith that a better tomorrow will come. Hold on. And keep telling yourself that “you’ve got this”.

I am rooting for you.

Okay. Love you. Bye.

Sources: Good Things with Brent Lindeque 

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 Friday Five Is Here: And It’s Full of Movies, Music And Magic Moments appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Who has to worry about Jolene when there’s a tractor named Betsie on the scene? A hilarious ‘interview’ revealed a love triangle we hope other spouses of farmers can’t relate to.

Somewhere on a Farm, South Africa (23 May 2025) — “I know men ‘aren’t allowed to cry, but there were times when she pulled me through the drought. When I was weak she was strong for me.” You’d be forgiven for thinking these to be the words of a doting partner, and in some ways you’d be right… if said partner was a farmer and if the ‘she’ was a tractor named Betsie. A hilarious advert recently played up a farmer’s true love triangle, and we’re not sure if it’s going to increase tractor sales or cause a series of ‘we need to talk’ moments.

In the advert, a farmer named Gerrie sits down with his wife to talk about love. However, things start to take a turn for the comedic when the audience realises he’s talking about his love for Betsie the tractor, while his wife thinks his loving words are about her.

“I can’t imagine life on the farm without her,” could’ve been a great way to show love to your wife Gerrie, but it just had to be about Betsie, didn’t it?

Watch: Never Mind Jolene When Betsie’s at the Scene

If this ad is relatable to those married to farmers, let us know in the comments (and please let us know how you deal!)

Meanwhile, in other videos that made us giggle this week, an American tried his first Grand-Pa in a bid to relieve a headache. Unfortunately for him, the local pain reliever might’ve given him a whole new flavour of headache in what has become a public service announcement not to try your first Grand-Pa in the powder format, without water and or if you’re not built like a South African. Have a watch, here.

Sources: John Deere; Facebook 

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 Watch: A South African Farmer’s Hilarious Love Triangle  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

For the first time, learners from a special needs school in Brackenfell took to the stage at the 15th Shakespeare Schools Festival held in Cape Town over the weekend.

Cape Town, South Africa (22 May 2025) — The crowd cheered after the Paarl School for the Neural Disabled performance of an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the District Six Homecoming Centre. Performers included learners with physical disabilities, cerebral palsy and learning disabilities.

For many of the learners, it was their first time performing on “a real stage”, and some had not been to a theatre before.

“When you’re physically disabled, it’s very difficult for your family to take you places [like this],” explained Alet Marais, the head of the intermediate phase at the school.

Some learners decorated their wheelchairs with flowers. Others dressed in whimsical costumes and wore makeup. The auditorium echoed with laughter and cheers throughout the performance, which ended with a standing ovation.

Marais says that because learners struggle with reading and writing, they chose not to use Elizabethan English in the play.

The performing group was made up of 24 learners, seven of whom use wheelchairs. They were assisted by seven teachers and three aides who helped the learners.

Marais says that getting in and out of the theatre with wheelchairs was a challenge which the school solved with mobile ramps.

The 15th Shakespeare Schools Festival runs until 31 May at the District Six Homecoming Centre, with performances by more than 45 drama groups.

The festival aims to bring together children from different communities to perform adapted Shakespeare plays and to improve language, learning and social skills through the performing arts.

Sources: GroundUp

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 Learners with Disabilities Steal the Show at Shakespeare Festival appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A South African staple versus an American with a headache. Recently, a South African-in-training put a Grand-Pa to the test. And we all know who won…

South Africa (20 May 2025) — It’s hard to fathom that most of the world beyond South Africa doesn’t instinctively raid their cupboards for a Grand-Pa when a headache or hangover strikes. But, in case you didn’t know, the pain relief staple is actually a South African brand (which is probably why your foreign co-workers keep looking at you weirdly when you ask them for a grandpa whilst clutching your head in pain, wondering what an elderly man could possibly do to help).

In a recent hilarious video, American Addi Logan decided to put Grand-Pa to the test.

You might recognise Addi from another hit video that depicted his review of South African desserts! While Addi’s dessert taste test saw South African treats (at least most of them) pass with flying colours, the same couldn’t be said for the pain-reliever.

Armed with a glass of water and a look of concern in his eyes, Addi embarked a little too bravely with the powder version of the product. He shared that his wife doesn’t take her doses with water (a true South African), before proceeding to attempt his own dose water-free.

Now, nobody has ever accused Grand-Pas of tasting like icing sugar. So it wasn’t unusual for Addi’s face to morph into a look of disgust when he threw the powder into the back of his throat (we couldn’t help but laugh —someone help this man!).

He then attempted to infuse it with water, which, once again, left his face morphing and South Africans trying not to laugh.

Watch And Try Not to Laugh: American Puts Grand-Pa to the Test

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by uSbari Addi (@usbari.addi)

Needless to say, this might be the American’s last shot at looking to Grand-Pa for relief. However, several South Africans raced to the comment section to defend the staple, with some suggesting Coca-Cola as the key factor and others expressing that “This is how Home Affairs knows you’re not ready [to be a South African].”

Sources: Addi Logan

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South African comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout is training for his first-ever Comrades. And, he’s learnt a lot from the utility of the word ‘tapering’ when you don’t know what else to say to the wise sages of Comrades past who seem to relish in acting as vague as a fortune cookie of fear and advice. Watch Schalk’s hilarious take on it all:

South Africa (18 May 2025) — South African comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout is among the many rookie racers preparing to take on the upcoming Comrades Marathon for the very first time. And, amid the many lessons Schalk has learned (like how far 80kms actually is and why the word ‘tapering’ is a fast ticket to sounding like you know what you’re talking about in a group of runners), he’s also interacted with the ‘Comrades Fortune Cookies’.

A Comrades ‘Fortune Cookie’ is someone who has completed the race and proceeds to give a rookie runner vague, alarming, and somewhat riddled advice, including (but not limited to) “After halfway, you find out who you truly are.”

Schalk recently made some updates on his training, with a video dedicated entirely to the ‘Comrades Fortune Cookies’ and their scary warnings.

“They will make it their mission to put the fear of God in you. They’ll go, ‘oh is it your first Comrades?’ and you go, ‘yeah no it’s my first one, I’m very excited’. And they’ll go (with an expression as if they’ve just seen a ghost), “I remember my first one… good luck, that’s all I can say. Good luck. And then they run into a bush and disappear forever,” remarks Schalk. 

The comedian even hilariously compared these sages to Dumbledore from Harry Potter, who never really let the kid know what was actually going on but made sure to give vague warnings at a whim.

Watch: People Who Have Done the Comrades Before, Please Stop Scaring Us

Sources: Schalk Bezuidenhout 

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Thuso Mbedu has gone from breakout star in Mzansi to one of the most exciting names in Hollywood and her journey is only just getting started.

Globe (18 May 2025) – From the quiet streets of Pietermaritzburg to the dazzling lights of Hollywood, Thuso Mbedu story is nothing short of inspirational.

Now, the Emmy-nominated and award-winning actress is gearing up for her next big adventure, starring as Aleah in HBO’s upcoming crime drama series Task. She’ll be acting alongside a powerhouse cast: Mark Ruffalo, Emilia Jones, Tom Pelphrey and Silvia Dionicio. As news of her new role breaks, fans and media back home have erupted with joy, declaring themselves “proudly South African” and celebrating every step of her success.

Mbedu’s rise has been extraordinary. Raised by her grandmother in Pietermaritzburg after losing both parents at a young age, she dreamed of telling stories on stage and screen. After earning her acting diploma at Wits University, she broke into South African television and quickly became a household name. But her true breakthrough came in 2021 when she was cast as Cora in Barry Jenkins’s The Underground Railroad. In doing so, Mbedu made history as the first South African to lead an American television series. Her fearless performance as an enslaved woman seeking freedom earned her rave reviews and multiple awards, including an Independent Spirit Award and Gotham Award for Best Actress. It was a moment of collective pride for South Africa, with local media praising her as someone “taking the world by storm with her bubbly personality and thespian excellence,” showcasing to the world the talent emerging from Mzansi.

The love and support from home has been overwhelming. When Mbedu promoted The Underground Railroad, she was moved to tears by fans’ reactions.

Taking to Instagram to thank her countrymen, she wrote: “My fellow South Africans! Y’all showed up and showed off with the love. Thank you, thank you, thank you guys… Thank you, I love you SA.”

Social media quickly filled with messages of admiration. One fan commented, “From the day I saw you… I knew you would go far.” Another wrote, “We love you Queen Thuso… Upwards and onwards… Thank you for making us proud!”

Local press marvelled at Mbedu’s humility and celebrated her as a South African trailblazer, even headlining that “Mzansi [is] brimming with pride” over her international success.

Her next milestone was equally stirring. In 2022, Mbedu made her big-screen debut as Nawi in The Woman King, a historical epic about the Dahomey Amazons, starring Viola Davis. Filming partly in South Africa, The Woman King brought global attention to the region’s rich heritage. Mbedu described debuting the film in South Africa as “moving,” and the national response was immense. During her press tour in Johannesburg, she told local media how blessed she felt by the country’s support. Again her fans answered with enthusiasm commenting on her posts that she was “making us proud” and showering her with blessings.

Even international icons took notice. After Mbedu’s appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Ellen praised her to Oprah Winfrey, saying: “I can’t tell you how amazing you are… you’re incredible.”

All these accomplishments have painted a moving picture of talent and tenacity. As one South African music and culture page put it, “South African pride!”. A sentiment echoed by media outlets and countless fans. Today, Mbedu stands on the cusp of her next big chapter. In Task, set in the suburbs of Philadelphia, she’ll play a key role in a tense FBI drama from the creators of Mare of Easttown. With Ruffalo as the lead FBI agent and Mbedu in the ensemble, Task promises to be another major showcase for her skills. The series is slated for September 2025 and already has South Africans counting the days with pride and excitement.

Thuso’s story is still being written, but one thing is clear… from that little girl in Pietermaritzburg to an actress on the world stage, her journey has filled South Africa with pride. She has overcome every hurdle with grace and grit, and as she takes on Task and whatever comes next, a whole nation is cheering for her! Onward and upward.

Sources: Thuso Mbedu | HBO Max 

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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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