Apparently, Cape Town moms are soft-spoken and wake up early to gracefully prepare homemade sourdough for their beloved families, whereas stressed-out Joburg moms need a coffee just to function. The accuracy is debatable, of course, but this video by Troy Sheperds is a cracker!

Cape Town, South Africa (11 May 2025) – Apparently, Cape Town stay-at-home moms are a lot more in touch with their calmer side than those in Johannesburg.

This is according to a hilarious video by content creator, Troy Sheperds, who impersonated moms from Cape Town versus those from Johannesburg and how they respond to their household, wifely and motherly responsibilities at what you’ll find to be very different… uhm..approaches.

In the video, he begins by impersonating a soft-spoken Cape Town mom who begins her morning by going to prepare sourdough bread for her entire family. The Johannesburg mom, on the other hand, with a rather sharp tone, goes on about running to go make a cup of coffee as soon as her alarm goes off because she just cannot function without it.

The peaceful Cape Town mom finds joy in waking up early, having a smoothie, serving her family and considers it her way of showing them love.

The stressed-out Joburg mom? She views her daily routine as being a glorified slave, lives in constant fear of her kids waking up too early and bombarding her with “mommy this, mommy that,”. She even hilariously contemplated adding a sneaky tot of tequila to her coffee because, in her own words, she’s “just off the rails!”

Troy’s hilarious impersonations are dramatic yet in some parts, surprisingly relatable, which is not an easy thing to achieve. The question now is, which mom are you? Or are you a beautiful blend of both?

Check out the video below to see the polar opposite moms navigating their roles:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by TroySheperds (@troysheperds)

Sources: Troy Sheperds 

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 Troy Shares Hilarious Impersonation of Cape Town Vs Joburg Stay-At-Home Moms appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A voice that captures the heart of South Africa: Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp joins the Good Things conversation.

Johannesburg, South Africa (30 April 2025) – Every so often, you meet someone whose energy feels like it could light up a thousand rooms. This week on Good Things with Brent Lindeque, I had the absolute joy of sitting down with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp… one of South Africa’s brightest voices, storytellers and changemakers.

Friends, she is such an amazing, beautiful dazzling light.

Elana is more than just a familiar voice on the radio or a celebrated face on our screens. She is the very spirit of vibrant South Africa, blending warmth, wisdom, wit and an unwavering commitment to uplift others in everything she does. From midmorning radio on Jacaranda FM, to her ground-breaking podcast work, to giving back through sport and education, Elana’s journey is layered with good things worth shouting about.

We spoke about her passion for podcasting… a medium where she truly shines. Her Parent & Baby Brunch has touched the lives of thousands of families, offering comfort, advice and laughter through the chaos of parenthood. Between hosting one of the country’s most-loved radio shows, managing ballet lessons, hockey practice and bedtime stories at home, Elana found the time to sit down for a very candid interview. And what makes Elana’s story such a good thing is not just the accolades or the achievements (although they are pretty phenomenal), it’s the way she carries it all… with authenticity, humility and a heart so deeply rooted in giving back. She reminded me that success means more when you lift others as you rise and that our voices, no matter how big or small, have the power to connect, heal and inspire.

If you haven’t yet, go give our full conversation a listen (or a watch below). It’s packed with laughter, life lessons and all the good things that make you believe in the beauty of this country.

Watch and listen to the episode on all our social platforms (like all of them)
New episodes drop weekly.
Powered by Nando’s. Filmed at FLAME Studios.
Stories that matter. Conversations that count.

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 Good Things with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp: Connection Through Conversation appeared first on Good Things Guy.

In a touching video, a daughter named Shaz lovingly details the extraordinary ways her mother shows up for her every single day – from waking up at the crack of dawn before Shaz gets ready for work to selling her dreadlocks to buy her a pair of shoes.

Tembisa, South Africa (11 April 2025) – A mother’s love knows no bounds. It’s no wonder that their love is described as unconditional.

Honouring her mother while capturing hearts online was Shaz, who shared a heartwarming TikTok video showcasing how her mother shows up for her in ways she cannot help but appreciate.

In a video, Shaz shares how she wakes at 4.30 am every morning to get ready for work, to find boiling water already prepared for her.

“This means she [mother] wakes up even earlier than 4.30 to make sure that everything is ready before I even start my day. Sometimes she even wakes me up before my alarm goes off and you’d think she would go back to sleep but no she stays up to make sure that I have everything that I need and on top of that accompanies me to catch a taxi to work,” Shaz shares.

Shaz also mentions an unforgettable memory of her mother going to Johannesburg only to return bald after selling her dreadlocks to get some money to buy Shaz a pair of shoes and trousers.

“I was so grateful. That’s when I realised there is nothing like a mother’s love in this world. I love her so much and I hope I continue to honour the ground that she walks on.

“I never want to see her struggle or lack anything in life. All I want is to see her happy. To see her living a life of joy and peace. She deserves nothing less after all,” Shaz says of her strong and loving single mother.

The TikTok post has garnered over 162k views and adoration from many Saffas who praised Shaz’s mother, whose loving sacrifices tugged at their hearts, prompting others to share their own cherished stories of maternal love, creating a heartwarming virtual embrace of the sacrifices and devotion of mothers.

@shammysbk10 Come to work with me Shout out to all the single parents out there #fyp#fypviral#trendingvideo#vlogging#cometoworkwithme#corporatelife#corporate#reality#relatable ♬ original sound – LLOYISO

Sources: @shammysbk10

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 Daughter’s TikTok Celebrates Single Mom’s Selfless Acts, Melting Hearts Online appeared first on Good Things Guy.

This month, 300 mothers and their newborns in KwaZulu-Natal received welcome surprises: maternity packs and heartfelt, handwritten cards from the dedicated volunteers at the Grace Factory, providing a well-supported start to their new chapter.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (19 February 2025) – The Grace Factory has started the year strong, doing the invaluable charity work they’ve been called to do: to bring ease and support in the lives of countless mommies and babies across South Africa.

The KwaZulu-Natal branch kicked off the new year by packing its first 300 maternity packs for 2025!

“We are so thankful to the wonderful community of people in KZN who have rallied together to support our cause.

“Every maternity pack was packed with love and care, and we even had volunteers making handwritten cards – making it extra special,” Grace Factory said.

Hoping to build on this momentum, The Grace Factory needs help with collecting much-needed baby blankets and clothing in sizes newborn and 0-3 months in KZN and Gauteng. This includes all babygrows, vests, leggings, jerseys, socks, beanies and booties. Gently pre-loved items are appreciated.

Since its inception, the charity, which has branches in Hillcrest, the Vaal and Johannesburg, has brought a ray of hope to thousands of anxious new mothers and babies and assisted hundreds of homes and organisations with baby goods.

If you have baby clothing, your little one has outgrown, or if you’re able to purchase a babygrow or two, you can help contribute to this worthy cause and help a less fortunate mom and her newborn better navigate probably the most vulnerable period of their lives.

Sources: The Grace Factory

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 Grace Factory Starts 2025 Strong with 300 Maternity Packs Packed with Love in KZN appeared first on Good Things Guy.

South Africa’s summer heat is a serious threat to children’s health, and experts are urging parents and caregivers to be extra vigilant.

Cape Town, South Africa (13 February 2025) – If there is one thing for certain, it is that summer in South Africa will be the heat!

With February marking the hottest month, ChildSafe South Africa, in collaboration with the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, is raising awareness about the dangers of heat-related illnesses like heatstroke and heat exhaustion.

The average temperature across the planet has been increasing steadily, making it more important than ever to remember that children are particularly vulnerable to heat-related issues.

Dr Shirani Naidoo, an emergency specialist at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital (RCWMCH), shares insights on why children are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses, the signs and symptoms to watch for, and how to prevent heatstroke.

Why Are Children More Susceptible to Heatstroke or Heat Exhaustion?

Children are more likely to suffer from heatstroke or heat exhaustion because their bodies produce more heat during physical activity than adults, and their cooling mechanisms, such as sweating, are less developed. Their higher body surface area to weight ratio increases their vulnerability to heatstroke, especially in hot and humid conditions. Children also tend to become so absorbed in play that they don’t notice when they’re overheating or need to rest.

For this reason, parents and caregivers need to remind children to drink water and take breaks in shaded, cool areas—or do so on their behalf—since kids are often too focused on having fun to pay attention to these needs.

The Signs and Symptoms of Heatstroke or Heat Exhaustion

• High body temperature (40°C)
• Red, hot, and dry skin (indicating reduced sweating)
• Rapid pulse or breathing
• Fatigue or muscle cramps
• Dizziness or confusion
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Unconsciousness in extreme cases

How to Prevent Heatstroke

The World Health Organization (WHO) provides guidelines on how we can prevent heatstroke or heat exhaustion in children and infants:

• Never leave children or animals in parked vehicles for any amount of time, as temperatures can quickly become dangerously high.
• Avoid direct exposure to the sun during peak hours, seeking shade or staying indoors instead. Shade can reduce how hot you feel by more than 10°C.
• Do not cover an infant stroller or pram with dry fabric – this makes the temperature inside the carriage even hotter. Instead, use a wet, thin cloth which is kept damp to lower the temperature. Combine with a portable fan for an even greater cooling effect.
• Dress children in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers their skin, and use wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect them from the sun’s rays.
• Keep children hydrated with plenty of cool water and allow infants to breastfeed on demand.
• Any associated diarrhoea and or vomiting will cause a quicker and more severe deterioration and will need a higher fluid intake to stay safe.

ChildSafe South Africa Executive Director Zaitoon Rabaney says supervision is key.

“Keeping a close eye on children and staying vigilant for signs of heatstroke are crucial steps in ensuring children’s safety. Early detection and swift action can make all the difference in preventing severe outcomes.

“By collectively staying informed and prepared, we can safeguard our children from heat-related illnesses and ensure they stay safe and healthy during the hottest months of the year.”

Immediate Actions for Heat Exhaustion

If a child begins to show signs of heat exhaustion (a precursor to heatstroke), prompt action can prevent escalation. Parents should move them to a cool place, encourage them to drink water, and cool their bodies with damp cloths, a fan or by removing unnecessary clothing and shoes.

If symptoms persist or worsen, it may indicate the onset of heatstroke. In such cases, seek immediate medical help by calling emergency services or heading to the closest health facility.

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 Parents Urged to Protect Little Ones Against Heatstroke During the Hottest Month of The Year appeared first on Good Things Guy.

For two incredibly difficult years, a single mother in Cape Town lived in constant fear, barely sleeping, terrified that her son Melokuhle’s rare breathing condition would worsen overnight. Her prayers have finally been answered, as Melokuhle’s surgery has been scheduled, giving them both hope that he’ll get to live a healthier and happier life.

Cape Town, South Africa (11 February 2025) – A single mother in Cape Town has spent two harrowing years caring for her son, Melokuhle, who battles a rare condition that severely compromises his breathing. Often gripped by fear, she struggles to sleep, terrified he’ll have breathing difficulties during the night. She’s had to miss work every day he gets too sick as she waits for her boy to receive the surgery he desperately needs to get better.

Thanks to the incredible support from the Children’s Hospital Trust and its donors, four-year-old Melokhule will finally receive the surgery he and his mother have been waiting for to improve his health.

Two years ago, mom, Nonthuthuzelo noticed her son would snore heavily and foam at the mouth when sleeping. They visited their local clinic, where doctors prescribed medication to clear Melokuhle’s sinuses, but the problem persisted.

“At night, I have to hold him to help with his breathing,” she recalls.

According to the Children’s Hospital Trust, Nonthuthuzelo took Melokuhle back to the clinic where they were referred to a specialist at Langa Clinic, who then referred them to Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital (RCWMCH).

Specialists at the RCWMCH determined that Melokuhle’s tonsils and adenoids were enlarged and obstructing his breathing. They would need to be removed but, because his surgery was not deemed an emergency, he was placed on a waiting list.

Helpless, Nonthuthuzelo struggled for two years. Even though Melokuhle’s condition was not life-threatening, it had a huge impact on both his and his mom’s well-being.

The problems with his tonsils and adenoids have caused continual infections and Nonthuthuzelo has been constantly worried about receiving calls from her son’s school informing her of Melokuhle having a fever and needing to be fetched from school.

She’s missed countless days of work caring for him, facing mounting financial pressure and the fear of losing her job.

Eventually, the strain almost became too much to bear and Nonthuthuzelo even considered sending him to KwaZulu-Natal to live with her mother. But then, the call came that Melokuhle’s surgery had been scheduled!

Finally getting to breathe a sigh of relief, Nonthuthuzelo is incredibly grateful for the hope that the Children’s Hospital Trust has offered her and Melokuhle.

With Melokuhle scheduled to undergo the surgery soon, his mom is overcome with emotion as she reflects on the hard journey they’ve endured but is also filled with hope that he will finally have a chance to get better, attend school and live a full life.

Sources: Children’s Hospital Trust

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 Brave Melokuhle Finally Gets the Surgery He Needs After 2 Years Of Breathing Troubles appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The State of South Africa’s Fathers 2024 report reveals challenges and a changing landscape of fatherhood in the country.

South Africa (10 February 2025) – Children deserve to grow up with both parents actively involved in their care, milestones, and interests as they navigate each stage of their development. Unfortunately, this is a dream for many children who aren’t in traditional family setups, as the reality of positive fatherhood and present fathers remains a disheartening challenge in many South African households.

A new report, the State of South Africa’s Fathers 2024 (SOSAF 2024), gives us important information about fathers in South Africa. It looks at what roles fathers play, the problems they face, and how fatherhood is changing.

In 2023, only 35.6% of South African children lived with their biological fathers in the same household, while 40.3% lived with other men, like stepfathers or uncles.

The report was put together by several organisations, including Equimundo, Stellenbosch University, the University of Cape Town, Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) and Sonke Gender Justice. These groups say this research is key to making good policies about fathers.

Changes in fatherhood identities

The traditional idea of fathers as just the “provider” has changed. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that fathers are taking on more caregiving.

Often, mothers are doing both – providing and caring – which can be very difficult. Experts say that a father’s financial situation greatly affects how involved he can be. Poverty and unemployment make it hard, and there’s also the expectation that women do most of the parenting.

UCT co-editor of SOSAF 2024, Dr Mandisa Malinga, says that what stood out for her was the role that economic stability plays in determining men’s parenting and involvement in their children’s lives.

“Though most of the men whose voices are represented in the report express a desire to be a present father, their socio-economic status serves as a barrier. The prevalence of poverty and unemployment in the country has an impact, as does the gendered expectation of positioning women as the ones who must do the actual parenting work.

“This highlights the importance of shining a light on how fostering close, caregiving relationships with their children can enrich men’s lives and expand their identities as fathers, and as men,” shares Malinga.

The recognition of social fathers in South Africa

The report also shows that many children live with men who aren’t their biological fathers (i.e. grandfathers, uncles etc), noting that these “social fathers” can be very important in a child’s life. They can be caregivers, mentors, and role models.

“This finding is crucial because it challenges the traditional notion of fatherhood being solely tied to biological connections and emphasises the importance of recognising and supporting the diverse forms of fatherhood that exist in South Africa,” says Dr Wessel van den Berg, Senior Advocacy Officer at Equimundo and co-editor of SOSAF.

He adds that children benefit from the care of any man who helps them grow and be healthy.

The impact of caring fatherhood on children

The report also highlights that fathers’ poor involvement in care has profound implications for South African children.

When fathers aren’t involved, children can struggle. They may have money problems, do poorly in school, or have mental health issues. They may also lack emotional support. That’s why it’s important to encourage positive fatherhood and make sure children have good male role models.

Experts say we need to change how we think about manhood. We need to tell stories about men who are strong, caring, and involved. They also stress the need to focus on who is actually involved in a child’s life, not just whether they are the biological father. Social fathers, like grandfathers, uncles, or even teachers, can make a big difference.

There is also the need for more social programmes that teach boys and young men about caregiving and emotional responsibility.

Engaging fathers in ways that meet their unique needs

According to Dr Onyinye Nwaneri, the Managing Director of Sesame Workshop South Africa, interventions aimed at addressing the country’s low levels of fathers’ involvement in parenting and caregiving must recognise that men have distinct needs.

She says:

“This includes addressing high rates of violence, depression, and substance abuse that may be linked to harmful norms around masculinity. This includes addressing high rates of violence, depression, and substance abuse that may be linked to harmful norms around masculinity. There needs to be a focus on building equitable gender norms in childhood to promote healthier decision-making later in life by ensuring boys’ and young men’s access to mentors who endorse equitable gender norms and model healthy behaviour.

To be effective, we must speak directly to men and boys when designing male engagement programmes and evaluating their effects. Public education campaigns, workplace policies that support work-life balance, and community programmes that promote the value of caregiving by both parents can help to encourage a cultural shift towards shared caregiving responsibilities between men and women.”

Transforming childhood in South Africa

The state of fathers in South Africa has a profound impact on young children. Experiencing men as caring, trustworthy role models who are forces for good in children’s lives can positively shape the outlook of generations.

When fathers are involved, it’s good for everyone. Children do better in school, have better social skills, and are less likely to experience violence. Fathers themselves have better relationships, improved mental health, and more financial stability. By making involved fatherhood the norm, we can create a better future for South African families.

As experts push for changes like shared parental leave -which would make it easier for fathers to be involved- the report hopes to start conversations about fatherhood and influence policies that support families and children.

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 Report Reveals Key Insights into The Changing Face Of Fatherhood And Caregiving appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Imagine a child’s world filled with love, security, and all their needs met. That’s the vision driving Give a Child a Family Africa (GCF). For over 30 years, this remarkable charity has been a beacon of hope for vulnerable children and families in KZN and beyond.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (31 January 2025) – Every child deserves to be raised and grow up in a warm and loving home where all their needs are met, and love is something they receive in abundance. Not just a picture-perfect ideal – it’s what every little one should truly get to experience and is a principle that the Give a Child a Family child protection charity firmly stands for.

Imagine walking into a home with no furniture, no food, and no sense of security. This is the heartbreaking reality for many families in need. But thanks to Give a Child a Family Africa (GCF), hope is being restored, one household at a time.

For over three decades, GCF has been a beacon of light for vulnerable children and families in Margate and Port Shepstone in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. Their mission is to ensure that every child grows up in a loving, secure family, not in an institution.

One of GCF’s dedicated community workers opened up about walking into homes with absolutely nothing in them but the desperation in struggling parents’ eyes.

“But when we step in, we don’t just offer help; we offer hope. We give them the tools to build a better future for their children,” she shares.

How GCF’s programmes are changing the narrative

Through their Parenting 4 Life programme, they provide crucial support to families battling unimaginable challenges, from unemployment and violence to disabilities and single parenthood.

Partnering with local “war rooms,” GCF identifies at-risk families and empowers them with essential services, from ID documents and social grants to counselling and parenting skills.

Once their immediate needs are addressed, they join GCF’s parenting training and support groups, learning valuable skills to create a safe, nurturing home for their children.

With funding secured for 100 families, GCF’s Parenting 4 Life programme is not just transforming lives—it’s breaking cycles of hardship and paving the way for a brighter future.

At its core, GCF believes that strong families create strong communities. When families are supported, children thrive. And when children thrive, the world becomes a better place.

Through their relentless commitment, GCF is not only changing individual lives but shaping a generation that will grow up with the love, security, and opportunities they deserve. Because every child deserves a family. And thanks to GCF, more children are getting that chance every single day!

For more information on GCF, call 039 317 2761 or email info@gcf.org.za.

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 How ‘Give a Child a Family’ Charity Changes Lives One Family at a Time appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Grace Factory recently celebrated distributing an incredible 3,100 maternity packs across six provinces! This translates to over 3,100 mothers – many navigating challenging circumstances – receiving vital support when they needed it most!

South Africa (20 January 2025) – Many expectant mothers preparing for the overwhelmingly unexpected journey of motherhood were provided with some much-needed comfort and support from a group of kind people who understand the various challenges they face, particularly when it comes to providing for themselves, their families and the little life inside them ready to enter the world.

The Grace Factory, last year, achieved the incredible feat of reaching six provinces and distributing an impressive 3,100 maternity packs and 105 clothing packs across its branches in the country.

Just imagine that. That over 3,000 mothers – most of whom are probably navigating a challenging journey, received support not just in the form of diapers and baby essentials. But, also in the remarkable form of human compassion from strangers who came by to see them during their most vulnerable state, surrounding them with love – a moment that will easily stay in their hearts and unforgettable maternity stories.

The charity’s 200 volunteers visited 42 public hospitals, clinics and organisations, working tirelessly to help many vulnerable mommies and babies.

Reflecting on a successful year of providing both practical support and emotional encouragement to these mothers, Grace Factory thanked its supporters and expressed an excitement for the year ahead:

“None of this would have been possible without the generosity of our donors, sponsors and volunteers. We are deeply grateful for your continued support and look forward to an impactful 2025.”

Sources: The Grace Factory

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 More Than 3,000 Mothers Receive Support and Compassion from Grace Factory appeared first on Good Things Guy.

In today’s digital age, it’s essential to equip children with the knowledge and skills to navigate the online world safely. While the internet offers countless opportunities for learning, creativity, and connection, it also presents potential risks.

South Africa (04 December 2024) – As much as many parents would love to keep their children phoneless and offline for as long as they possibly can, the truth is we’re living in a time where it’s almost crucial that they have some kind of digital device to keep in touch when you’re not around them or to do research for a school assignment.

As your child grows, they are likely to spend more and more time online. There are so many positive things about being online, such as staying connected with friends and family, pursuing interests, and being part of communities. However, it is not always a safe and positive experience for children, UNICEF South Africa reports.

The organisation, which is dedicated to helping children reach their full potential, has shared five important ways you can keep your child safe in the virtual world.

1. Set some rules

According to UNICEF, it’s important to encourage an open dialogue between you and your child about who they communicate with, and how and who can see what they post online.

Explain the concept of a digital footprint (pictures, videos, comments, things they share with others) and encourage them to be mindful of their online actions.

Also, teach them to speak up if they have experienced anything upsetting, uncomfortable or scary by confiding in you or a trusted adult immediately.

2. Use technology to protect them

Keeping your little one’s device up to date with the latest software and privacy settings are on and configured is key! This helps minimise data collection so that people don’t see any information that you don’t want them to see.

Keep webcams covered when not in use. For younger children, tools such as parental controls like safe search can help keep online experiences positive.

Also, be cautious of free online resources, including educational ones. If your child is asked to provide a photo or their full name, be sure it is a trusted website.

3. Spend time with them online

Create opportunities for your child to have safe and positive online interactions with friends, family and you. Connecting with others is a great way for you to model kindness and empathy in online interactions.

Help your child recognise and avoid misinformation and disinformation, age-inappropriate content and content that can potentially cause anxiety or harm. Introduce them to trustworthy sources of information.

Children can be exposed to advertising that may promote unhealthy foods, gender stereotypes or age-inappropriate material. Help them to recognise online ads and use the opportunity to explore together what is wrong with some of the negative messaging you see.

4. Model healthy online habits

Children are like sponges, mimicking a lot of what the adults around them do, therefore practice what you preach by demonstrating responsible online behaviour and being mindful of what you share online about your child, including their photos and videos.

Kindness and empathy are important in the virtual world, too, so encourage your child to support friends and family by sending positive messages or emojis.

Stay attentive if your child appears distressed or is hiding their online activities. Assure them that any abuse or harassment they experience is not their fault, and they should feel comfortable discussing it rather than keeping it a secret.

If they have classes online, encourage them to be respectful of others and to be mindful of what can be seen on camera to maintain privacy.

5. Let them have fun and express themselves

Using the internet can be a fantastic way for your children to be imaginative, gain knowledge, voice their opinions, and advocate for causes they care about.

Inspire your child to use online resources that encourage physical activity, like exercise videos for kids and interactive video games that get them moving.

Remember to balance online activities with an active lifestyle and offline recreation for a healthy balance in all aspects of life.

By following these guidelines, you can empower your child to navigate the digital world with confidence and safety.

Sources: UNICEF South Africa

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 Navigating the Digital World: How to Keep Your Child Safe Online appeared first on Good Things Guy.