Stronger Together Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/stronger-together/ Fri, 09 May 2025 09:07:10 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-gtg_favicon-32x32.png Stronger Together Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/stronger-together/ 32 32 Cableway Charity Challenge Introduces an Upcycled Medal Packed With Meaning; Meets R 1 Million Mark https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/cableway-charity-challenge-introduces-an-upcycled-medal-packed-with-meaning-meets-r-1-million-mark/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/cableway-charity-challenge-introduces-an-upcycled-medal-packed-with-meaning-meets-r-1-million-mark/#respond Fri, 09 May 2025 10:00:08 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=150680

On Sunday, climbers from all over the Cape (and beyond) will tackle Platteklip Gorge as many times as their bodies can handle for a big cause as part of the...

The post Cableway Charity Challenge Introduces an Upcycled Medal Packed With Meaning; Meets R 1 Million Mark appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>

On Sunday, climbers from all over the Cape (and beyond) will tackle Platteklip Gorge as many times as their bodies can handle for a big cause as part of the annual Cableway Charity Challenge. Massively, the pledges have already surpassed the R1 million mark. Meaningfully, there’s a new upcycled medal for racers to look forward to!

 

Cape Town, South Africa (09 May 2025) — Sunday 11 May marks a big day on the climbers’ calendar. It’s the annual Cableway Charity Challenge in which racers will tackle Platteklip Gorge as many times as they can to inflict positive change, boost pledges and don a upcycled medal packed with meaning at the end of it all.

The upcycled medal is an exciting addition to the challenge. This year, each finisher will receive a medal that’s been crafted from the retired track rope cable once used by the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company, their own piece of lasting cableway history. The track rope cable has been cut up into discs by residents of The Ark City of Refuge (a Cape Town-based organisation supporting people impacted by homelessness and unemployment).

As such, the medal is extra meaningful; representing both second chances for materials and people all while embodying notes of resilience, dignity and communal purpose.

Executive Director of TMACC, Selma Hercules says that the team wanted to share a unique token of appreciation with participants this year.

“We chose something that was a reflection of the event and of the strength of the mountain. It also was a reminder of the power of the hands of local makers that went into the making of the medals, and of the impact of the money raised on the day.”

This year, the Cableway Charity Challenge is supporting a host of causes. Pledges have already surpassed the R1 million mark. However, sights are set on matching last year’s pledges (over R1.2 million) or pledging even more.

The causes supported are:

Ubuntu Football (in which young people are mentored through sport and life-skills development), Funda Kunye (who help early childhood development in under-resourced areas), Volunteer Wildfire Services (the team who help firefighters and protect natural heritage) and Wilderness Search and Rescue (the brave network of volunteers who ensure mountain rescues are possible and accessible).

“The support we receive through the Charity Challenge helps us build stronger, more nurturing foundations for children at the most critical stage of their development,” says Funda Kunye’s Karen Temlett.

Echoes Johann Marais of WSAR, “People come to the mountain for joy and adventure…when things go wrong, we’re there, and it’s support like this that ensures we can always be.”

Even if you aren’t racing for the cause and the upcycled medal moment, you can still make a pledge to the mission here.


Sources: Supplied
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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

The post Cableway Charity Challenge Introduces an Upcycled Medal Packed With Meaning; Meets R 1 Million Mark appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>
https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/cableway-charity-challenge-introduces-an-upcycled-medal-packed-with-meaning-meets-r-1-million-mark/feed/ 0
If the Rainbow Nation Was a Degree, This Trio Earned It  https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/if-the-rainbow-nation-was-a-degree-this-trio-earned-it/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/if-the-rainbow-nation-was-a-degree-this-trio-earned-it/#respond Tue, 08 Apr 2025 07:00:45 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=148042

Three friends, each from a different South African culture (Afrikaans, Xhosa, and Indian), became part of a legal eagle trio during their studies. All lawyers now, the tight-knit friends shared...

The post If the Rainbow Nation Was a Degree, This Trio Earned It  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>

Three friends, each from a different South African culture (Afrikaans, Xhosa, and Indian), became part of a legal eagle trio during their studies. All lawyers now, the tight-knit friends shared how their different backgrounds served an important role in their friendship and successes.

 

Stellenbosch, South Africa (08 April 2025) — Three friends who became something of a legal eagle trio during their studies at Stellenbosch University have something to teach all of us, and it’s not about law.

This lesson isn’t just about the power of friendships forged from different cultural backgrounds either. Instead, it lies in the experience of actively learning from these differences—which is quite different to simply knowing that the differences are there.

The three friends making up the legal eagle trio are Akhona Sandaza, Dawid Oosthuizen and Seyuran “Sey” Arran.

While studying law, a young Dawid found himself under the mentorship of second-year Akhona during orientation week. Sey soon joined in (he had been friends with Dawid in Johannesburg), and the beginning of a strong friendship between the three men began.

When they weren’t studying or simply being young together, they were learning about each other’s Afrikaans, Xhosa and Indian cultures.

They tasted different foods from one another’s worlds, learnt different expressions and attended each other’s family gatherings.

“Meeting each other’s families closed the circle,” reflected Sey.

Differences ranged beyond culture. Akhona liked the outdoors, while Dawid and Sey relished playing a game of soccer. To this point, the trio made efforts to give time to each other’s favourite activities when they could, and reach compromises when they couldn’t.

Each learnt something from the other through their great respect for what made them different. Not just acknowledgment—respect. The result? A friendship that saw them graduate in their studies and into a new level of friendship, considering each other family.

“Our friendship is a space where I feel comfortable being vulnerable. The fact that I’m different in certain ways never became an issue. We could all just be ourselves. We engage without fear or judgement. It has show me the value of close male friendships that transcend societal expectations of masculinity,’ Akhona reflects.

“The fact that all of us were so different, but had similar core values, helped us to talk through things and hold each other accountable when it mattered most…we all felt responsible for each other and ourselves,” adds Sey.

In fact, differences in viewpoint are often something they embraced. As Dawid shares of his fond memories in debating with Akhona as law students who argued different judgments:

“We don’t always agree, but we refine each other’s viewpoints. The key is staying open-minded and being willing to listen.”

Despite their careers taking them to different parts of the country, the lessons their friendship has taught them will long remain each’s North Star.

“Regardless of where life takes us, we’ll still be supporting each other and celebrate our successes. I dream of us having fulfilling careers, strong families and being there for each other in the years to come.”—Akhona Sandaza.


Sources: Stellenbosch University 
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 If the Rainbow Nation Was a Degree, This Trio Earned It  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>
https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/if-the-rainbow-nation-was-a-degree-this-trio-earned-it/feed/ 0
Funky Socks Day 2024 Surpasses Goal; Raises Nearly R1.5 Million! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/funky-socks-day-2024-surpasses-goal-raises-nearly-r1-5-million/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/funky-socks-day-2024-surpasses-goal-raises-nearly-r1-5-million/#respond Wed, 27 Nov 2024 10:00:19 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=138131

Thanks to everyone who decided to sock and roll for Funky Socks Day, nearly R1.5 million was raised to support little South Africans’ early educational journeys!   South Africa (27...

The post Funky Socks Day 2024 Surpasses Goal; Raises Nearly R1.5 Million! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>

Thanks to everyone who decided to sock and roll for Funky Socks Day, nearly R1.5 million was raised to support little South Africans’ early educational journeys!

 

South Africa (27 November 2024) — Every year, Funky Sock Day stands out on the calendar as the kind of day when something as simple as a pair of socks, stickers or both have the power to make a huge difference for vulnerable children. This year, that power was proven once again thanks to South Africa and a very successful Funky Socks Day 2024!

“Thanks to every single one of you who rocked your funky socks and bought Funky Socks Day stickers at PNA, we surpassed our goal and raised almost an incredible R.15 million—all for children in need,” praised Breadline Africa CEO, Marion Wagner.

Schools, individuals with a penchant for creative footwear and friends of change alike all donned their funkiest socks to add their support to Funky Socks Day 2024. These collective efforts saw the campaign raise a fantastic fortune of R1,464,519 which will transform the lives of little South Africans through Breadline Africa!

In even more reason to tap your toes with joy, this numbers that in excess of half a million rand more than last year was raised; AKA: Funky Socks Day support is growing!

Last year, the funds raised helped build pre-schools and improve early childhood education and development in the Western Cape, Gauteng and the Eastern Cape.

Thanks to this year’s success, the campaign will now be able to provide 50 ECD centres (early childhood development centres) across the country and Namibia with essential classroom materials and resources. These include resources like puzzles, activity books, play dough, stationary, books, chairs, tables and even more essentials for young, growing minds.

The focus on ECD centres comes in that investing in this stage of a young person’s development is key to building a brighter future for the whole country.


Sources: Supplied
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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

The post Funky Socks Day 2024 Surpasses Goal; Raises Nearly R1.5 Million! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>
https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/funky-socks-day-2024-surpasses-goal-raises-nearly-r1-5-million/feed/ 0
Firefighters Add Fuel to the Festive Spirit for This Year’s Toy Run https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/firefighters-add-fuel-to-the-festive-spirit-for-this-years-toy-run/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/firefighters-add-fuel-to-the-festive-spirit-for-this-years-toy-run/#respond Tue, 26 Nov 2024 11:00:42 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=138016

Cape Town firefighters joined forces with bikers to make this year’s Toy Run that much more joyful; arriving with a truckload of toys for children in need!   Cape Town,...

The post Firefighters Add Fuel to the Festive Spirit for This Year’s Toy Run appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>

Cape Town firefighters joined forces with bikers to make this year’s Toy Run that much more joyful; arriving with a truckload of toys for children in need!

 

Cape Town, South Africa (26 November 2024) — Motorheads, toys in abundance and firefighters on the move. This particular combination could only mean one thing: the Toy Run Cape Town! This year’s Toy Run saw characters from all rides of life join forces at Killarney International Raceway for a massive effort to make the festive season that much more joyful for young people most in need.

As such, last Sunday was a spectacular affair as the 42nd Toy Run Cape Town was underway, and local firefighters couldn’t help but add a little fuel to the festive spirit.

The City’s Fire and Rescue Services joined the bikers in their hundreds for the big charity drive that collected thousand of toys for children in orphanages, foster homes, hospitals and safe spaces.

From the firefighters’ perspective, it was a wonderfully overwhelming display of community support, one they hope to contribute more to.

As such, the the City’s firefighters hope to sustain collection drives like this through the coming year by making Fire Stations accessible drop-off points for donations; something they kickstarted in honour of this year’s Toy Run.

“Our firefighters heeded the call and so we opened all of our fire stations this past week and asked our residents to have their children consider donating some of their old toys. And the generosity was hear-warming,” shares Mayco Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

“We loaded everything into one of our fire engines and along with a group of our firefighters, we escorted it with the procession into Killarney. Cape Town came out in numbers and while the organisers will spend the next two weeks sorting, packing and coordinating the toys to the various recipients, they are confident have have exceeded the ultimate goal which seemed so impossible at first.”

According to the City of Cape Town, as many as 16,000 toys, including plush toys, toy cars and dolls, were donated for the drive.


Sources: City of Cape Town
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 Firefighters Add Fuel to the Festive Spirit for This Year’s Toy Run appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>
https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/firefighters-add-fuel-to-the-festive-spirit-for-this-years-toy-run/feed/ 0
Muizenberg Park Gets a Playful Upgrade Thanks to New Playground https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/muizenberg-park-gets-a-playful-upgrade-thanks-to-new-playground/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/muizenberg-park-gets-a-playful-upgrade-thanks-to-new-playground/#respond Mon, 25 Nov 2024 14:00:28 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=137917

There’s a new treasure in Muizenberg Park thanks to a new playground that the community, who want to see the park thrive, made possible!   Muizenberg Park, South Africa (25...

The post Muizenberg Park Gets a Playful Upgrade Thanks to New Playground appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>

There’s a new treasure in Muizenberg Park thanks to a new playground that the community, who want to see the park thrive, made possible!

 

Muizenberg Park, South Africa (25 November 2024) — It’s been an exciting year for the Friends of Muizenberg Park who have proven that when people and purpose join forces, a lot of good can happen. From restoring a place of precious memories to the new playground their community made possible; this group have had many victories to celebrate.

Earlier this year, the Friends of Muizenberg Park community made headlines for their Stream Project—a mammoth task that aimed to restore Peck’s Stream from alien vegetation.

This was a project dedicated both to the ecological health of the park and the sentimentality of many people, given the stream’s place in Muizenberg lore as a place of special memories.

It was a mission made successful thanks to a lot of concerted effort. Beyond the increase in value that restoration brought, it also opened the floodgates for new conservation opportunities like the Cape Flats ranger butterfly finding its place in the ecosystem and the overall value increase of the park thanks to the polished aesthetic and subsequent safety.

Now, the new park playground adds another dose of value for children and families.

Celebrated earlier this month, the little playground was welcomed by community members—many of whom made the infrastructure possible through fundraising. A special event was hosted to raise even more funds for the new playground as pancakes became tokens of value tied to the playground’s upkeep.

Now, Muizenberg Park is premised as a place for youngsters to love as much as the older folk, all while basking in the beauty of ecological richness.

Those who want to contribute to the park’s ever-unfolding happy stories are encouraged to join the Volunteer Programme!

You can join the WhatsApp group; stay up to date with what help is needed for the next mini-project, and choose what you’d like to commit to when you can.


Sources: Friends of Muizenberg Park 
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 Muizenberg Park Gets a Playful Upgrade Thanks to New Playground appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>
https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/muizenberg-park-gets-a-playful-upgrade-thanks-to-new-playground/feed/ 0
Strangers Unite to Help Adrina the Uber Driver After Car Accident https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/strangers-unite-to-help-adrina-the-uber-driver-after-car-accident/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/strangers-unite-to-help-adrina-the-uber-driver-after-car-accident/#respond Sun, 17 Nov 2024 14:00:49 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=137224

After a serious car accident seemingly caused by a truck, an Uber driver named Adrina and his passenger faced huge health complications. As Ian’s friends banded together for his support,...

The post Strangers Unite to Help Adrina the Uber Driver After Car Accident appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>

After a serious car accident seemingly caused by a truck, an Uber driver named Adrina and his passenger faced huge health complications. As Ian’s friends banded together for his support, many also took to track down his driver—a stranger to them—in an epic bid to give him a helping hand too.

 

Cape Town, South Africa (17 November 2024) — After a cement truck’s failed breaks seemingly caused a massive car accident on Kloofnek Road on 26 September (which saw 17 vehicles involved), an unlucky Uber driver and his passenger were both put in precarious positions. Ian MacFarlane lay in a coma while his driver, Adrina Phiri, faced serious injuries that have put him out of work.

But, this is not a story of despair. Instead, it’s a story where strangers and friends have decided to turn something tragic into something that can be overcome.

Ian’s Friends Rally to Support Adrina

As is often the case in times of need, friends of Ian banded together to support him. However, in a heartwarming and unanticipated turn of events, many also decided to rally support for Adrina!

The first step was tracking Adrina down, as Kirsten Pearson, a friend of Ian, tells Good Things Guy.

“Like many people, I saw the dramatic viral footage on social media [of the accident[ but didn’t know that a friend, Ian MacFarlane was the passenger in the red Kia Picanto,” she explains.

After Ian’s sister shared the news of her brother’s accident and of his coma state, Kirsten was added to a group for progress on his health condition.

“The amount of people his life has touched is so extensive that there are over 330 people on the WhatsApp group all rooting for Ian’s recovery,” says Kristen.

On the group, concerns about Ian’s Uber driver had arisen. Unfortunately, there was little information on his whereabouts or details at the time.

“A group of us set out to find him to check whether he was okay by looking at the footage of the accident. Groote Schuur has around 1,000 beds so this was no small task.”

By luck, Ian’s recovered phone helped his family piece together who Adrina was.

A Long Road Ahead Without Work

“He is lucky to be alive and has sustained serious injuries,” Kirsten says.

That fateful day has resulted in two surgeries for Adrina, including a bone graft from leg to arm. His doctor has reportedly explained that he won’t be able to drive for two years, which means two years of no work.

Greta Wilson, another member of the support group for Ian was also touched by Adrina’s situation and volunteered to start a crowdfunding campaign for him following Kirsten’s appeal.

“His arm has been secured with an external fixator. When the bone is healed these large pins will be removed in a follow-up operation. The road to recovery will be long,’ Greta adds.

As such, this incredible group of people are raising funds to help support Adrina’s medical costs, lost income and other essential needs. Adrina even has his own support WhatsApp group now, dubbed ‘Adrina’s recovery circle of care’.

Despite the road ahead, the support along the way is proving to be immense!

In good news, Ian has woken up from the coma and is even breathing on his own with an army of friends cheering him on.

As for those who wish to support Adrina and be a part of his triumph over adversity story, donations can be made via BackaBuddy.


Sources: GTG Interview
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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

The post Strangers Unite to Help Adrina the Uber Driver After Car Accident appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>
https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/strangers-unite-to-help-adrina-the-uber-driver-after-car-accident/feed/ 0
SA Sends Love to Mia Le Roux After Withdrawal From Miss Universe https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/sa-sends-love-to-mia-le-roux-after-withdrawal-from-miss-universe/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/sa-sends-love-to-mia-le-roux-after-withdrawal-from-miss-universe/#respond Fri, 15 Nov 2024 13:00:10 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=137199

Miss South Africa Mia Le Roux’s withdrawal from the Miss Universe competition on account of health concerns came as a surprise to many. But, South Africans are rallying beside her...

The post SA Sends Love to Mia Le Roux After Withdrawal From Miss Universe appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>

Miss South Africa Mia Le Roux’s withdrawal from the Miss Universe competition on account of health concerns came as a surprise to many. But, South Africans are rallying beside her and sharing all the support and love!

 

Global (15 November 2024) — Miss South Africa Mia Le Roux quickly made her mark on Mexico in the days leading up to the 2024 Miss Universe pageant.

With grace, a killer lookbook and proudly South African energy, Miss Mia gave South Africa so much to root for before even setting a toe on the finals stage. But, in a recent statement from the Miss South Africa organisation, it has been shared that Mia has had to withdraw from the competition on account of her health.

The statement reads:

“It is with deep regret that we share the news that Mia Le Roux, Miss South Africa 2024, has had to withdraw from the Miss Universe competition due to health concerns.

Mia Le Roux expresses, “I am profoundly thankful for the unwavering support from South Africa during my time at Miss Universe. Making this decision has been incredibly challenging, knowing the dreams and hopes that have been placed upon me. However, I am deeply grateful to have the opportunity to focus on my health and recovery so that I may continue to serve my country with full strength.”

The Miss South Africa organisation additionally shared that throughout this difficult period for her, Mia has shown “incredible courage and grace.”

While many were disheartened to receive the news, what’s remarkable is just how many people have put their maturity caps on and sent love and support Mia’s way.

Some have shared that to them, Mia is “already Miss Universe” while others added that she “has made an impact already.”

“Get well soon Mia, you will always be a winner in my eyes,” one social media user shared, while others have commended her bravery for coming so far and representing a community that doesn’t always get the spotlight so beautifully. 

Even fans from other countries have rushed to share their love!

So many people have supported her decision to focus on her health, which, in our books, is an important marker of respect and kindness.

It’s so easy for people to forget that there  is a human wearing the sash, playing the sport or waving our flag high. In the world of public figures where so often people are reduced to characters, there’s something to be said about the people who envelope these moments with love instead of guilt and support instead of bullying.

We’re sending all the good energy and healing Mia’s way and hope that her decision inspires others to be brave enough to put their health first.


Sources: Miss SA; GTG 
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 SA Sends Love to Mia Le Roux After Withdrawal From Miss Universe appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>
https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/sa-sends-love-to-mia-le-roux-after-withdrawal-from-miss-universe/feed/ 0
Alison Gets the Green Light for Rehabilitation After Brain Surgery! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/alison-gets-the-green-light-for-rehabilitation-after-brain-surgery/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/alison-gets-the-green-light-for-rehabilitation-after-brain-surgery/#respond Fri, 01 Nov 2024 13:00:27 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=135734

“I am a fighter as many of you have reminded me,” said a brave Alison Botha in the first update she has personally shared following her brain surgery; a situation...

The post Alison Gets the Green Light for Rehabilitation After Brain Surgery! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>

“I am a fighter as many of you have reminded me,” said a brave Alison Botha in the first update she has personally shared following her brain surgery; a situation angels across the country have united to see her through! Here’s her update:

 

Cape Town, South Africa (01 November 2024) — Alison Botha has reminded South Africa what a fighter she is following a brain aneurysm and her subsequent brain surgery.

In the first personal update she has shared regarding the medical matter, Alison took the time to update South Africa on where she’s at; largely thanks to the support of angels across the country who were determined to return the hope Alison has imparted on so many of us by virtue of her spectacular strength.

For those who missed the story, Alison suffered a brain aneurysm in late September where bleeding on her brain ensued. She underwent surgery to stop the haemorrhage and underwent brain surgery to help with the fluid that had built up.

It was a lengthy period of her being in and out of consciousness; leaving Alison reliant on support to pull her through considering that she was hardly in any position to fundraise for the medical bills herself.

Alison’s legal team were the first to step up; setting up a trust fund for Alison. Soon, South Africans everywhere caught wind of the effort and wasted no time in pouring in support.

From individuals to incredible organisations like the Angel Network, South Africa was firmly behind Alison—a woman who many consider the epitome of courage, strength, and living proof that you can not only survive the unsurvivable, but help others do the same.

In her update, Alison spoke to her recovery and shared that she has been given the green light for rehabilitation! Here’s what she said, as transcribed by those close to her:

Hi, this is Alison.

It’s been a while 🙂 After a month, I am able to personally update you on my recovery this far.

I am still in hospital and starting the long journey of rehabilitation. I have been assessed by the doctors and physio therapists and have been informed that I can soon be transferred to a specialist rehabilitation centre, because of the generosity of so many selfless people. Thank you.

I can use my right arm, but unfortunately cannot sit up independently, stand or walk.

At least my sight has improved! My only brother Neale has been reduced from 9 to 3 versions of him.

I hope you approve of my new haircut, courtesy of Neale and my legal people Hannelie and Tania (I think they should stick to their day jobs). You can all vote on that later.

I am still a bit shocked. I am still nervous, and still worried about the journey ahead, but I am a fighter as so many of you have reminded me. I have been through worse, and very determined to make a full recovery.

I am thinking about you all and ask you to continue keeping me in your thoughts.

Love Alison.

You can contribute to Alison’s BackaBuddy, here. 


Sources: Alison Botha
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 Alison Gets the Green Light for Rehabilitation After Brain Surgery! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>
https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/alison-gets-the-green-light-for-rehabilitation-after-brain-surgery/feed/ 0
Car Guard’s Heartfelt Hospital Visit Shows True South African Kindness https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/car-guards-heartfelt-hospital-visit-shows-true-south-african-kindness/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/car-guards-heartfelt-hospital-visit-shows-true-south-african-kindness/#comments Mon, 07 Oct 2024 03:31:36 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=132766

South Africans have an extraordinary way of turning small acts of kindness into life-changing moments, and a car guard’s unexpected hospital visit is a shining example of just how deeply...

The post Car Guard’s Heartfelt Hospital Visit Shows True South African Kindness appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>

South Africans have an extraordinary way of turning small acts of kindness into life-changing moments, and a car guard’s unexpected hospital visit is a shining example of just how deeply we care for one another.

 

Johannesburg, South Africa (07 October 2024) – South Africans are inherently kind, aren’t we? Beneath the daily hustle and bustle, we have a nation brimming with warmth, kindness, and a heart that never stops giving. No matter the challenges, we somehow find ways to uplift one another, offering small acts of humanity that ripple out into much bigger things. And here’s a perfect story that highlights that very spirit.

Marian Gray-Wilson shared a story on social media that beautifully encapsulates this sense of community. It’s a simple yet heartwarming story about a car guard named Guy – or “Gee” as some call him – who noticed one of his regular “customers” wasn’t around and decided to check in on him. But this wasn’t just any check-in; it was an extraordinary act of kindness.

In South Africa, car guards play an essential role in everyday life, especially in shopping centres and busy parking areas. They keep an eye on vehicles while their owners are away, ensuring safety in exchange for a small tip or gesture of appreciation. Beyond providing a valuable service, the car guard role also helps create employment in a country facing harrowing unemployment rates. Though often seen as informal work, it offers a lifeline to many, helping them support their families and become part of the community. In many cases, like Guy’s, these bonds go beyond a transaction, leading to incredible acts of humanity.

Samantha, the granddaughter of 84-year-old Gavin, often took her grandpa shopping at Karaglen, where they parked on the Woolies side. Guy always greeted them with enthusiasm and warmth despite knowing they didn’t always have cash to tip him. In place of a few coins, Samantha would occasionally buy him a loaf of bread or a drink – that small gesture became a symbol of their growing bond.

Unfortunately, Gavin fell ill and was admitted to Edenvale hospital. On Samantha’s next visit to the shops, she was alone, and Guy immediately noticed. He asked where Gavin was, and she told him that her grandpa was in the hospital.

What happened next was completely unexpected.

Guy didn’t just express his concern—he and his wife went to visit Gavin in the hospital! It’s the kind of story that leaves you speechless, a simple loaf of bread and a few kind words blossoming into something far greater.

Samantha shared her thoughts: “He is the most amazing human being. When he asked me on Tuesday what ward Gramps is in, I had no idea he was planning on going to visit him. Just awesome.”

This beautiful gesture sparked an emotional response on social media.

One comment read, “I had a proper cry when Sam told me this story,” while another added, “So moving, many great car guards out there. Love this story!” Yet another follower wrote, “He really is a good things Guy. Well done, Guy, for showing compassion for others. May you be blessed with good things in your future.”

It’s not just about what’s in your wallet—it’s about the heart behind the exchange. And even though we’re often distracted by our own busy lives, moments like these remind us just how much kindness and connection matter.

South Africa is a place where even the smallest gestures, like a loaf of bread or a visit to a hospital, can lead to the biggest acts of humanity.


Sources: Marian Gray-Wilson 
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 Car Guard’s Heartfelt Hospital Visit Shows True South African Kindness appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>
https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/car-guards-heartfelt-hospital-visit-shows-true-south-african-kindness/feed/ 1
National Cupcake Day Bakes Massive Change Worth Millions! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/national-cupcake-day-bakes-massive-change-worth-millions/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/national-cupcake-day-bakes-massive-change-worth-millions/#respond Wed, 02 Oct 2024 10:00:08 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=132375

This year’s National Cupcake Day did not disappoint! Our nation’s sweetest mission saw bakers unite from all over South Africa to bake massive changes into the lives of children fighting...

The post National Cupcake Day Bakes Massive Change Worth Millions! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>

This year’s National Cupcake Day did not disappoint! Our nation’s sweetest mission saw bakers unite from all over South Africa to bake massive changes into the lives of children fighting cancer. Together, they raised over R 2million:

 

South Africa (02 October 2024) — National Cupcake Day has come and gone once again, leaving behind a sweet legacy and massive change for children fighting cancer in South Africa.

In exceptional news for this year’s cupcake mission, a whopping R2,326,347 million has been raised thanks to all those who participated—from South African decorating savants to baking wizards, rookies in the kitchen, professional pastry legends and all those who came out to support the cause.

Underway this past weekend on 28 September, malls across South Africa lit up with cupcake delights of all shades, colours and flavours. 70 malls took part in the challenge, while thousands of bakers took part.

The funds they helped raise head off to help Cupcakes of Hope, an NPC and PBO that provides assistance and support to families and children fighting cancer. If the name wasn’t enough of an indicator, Cupcakes of Hope does a lot of their incredible work (they’ve assisted more than 10,000 patients in the past 20 years) through cupcake-centric fundraising efforts, year-round.

Their efforts help support everything from covering medical bills to other essential needs like nappies and nutrition.

In even more good news, this year’s National Cupcake Day outdid last year’s number of funds raised (R2,278,525), meaning that awareness and support for childhood cancer are spreading far and wide like icing on a massive cake of local love!

As Cupcakes of Hope aptly puts it:

Mother Teresa said: “We can’t all do great things, but we can do little things with great LOVE”. And that is what Cupcakes of HOPE is all about. Thank you for helping us spread Cupcake LOVE all across South Africa.”


Sources: Cupcakes of Hope 
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 National Cupcake Day Bakes Massive Change Worth Millions! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

]]>
https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/national-cupcake-day-bakes-massive-change-worth-millions/feed/ 0