Sport Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/category/sport/ Wed, 28 May 2025 13:50:09 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-gtg_favicon-32x32.png Sport Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/category/sport/ 32 32 Jono Kruger Takes on the Comrades to Rewrite the Future for Mdantsane Kids https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/jono-kruger-comrades-future-mdantsane-kids/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/jono-kruger-comrades-future-mdantsane-kids/#respond Thu, 29 May 2025 09:00:51 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=152055

Far too many kids in the Eastern Cape are born into challenging circumstances that place them in a very disadvantaged position. Jono Kruger has made it his personal mission to...

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Far too many kids in the Eastern Cape are born into challenging circumstances that place them in a very disadvantaged position. Jono Kruger has made it his personal mission to support a cause that inspires them to learn, play, and gain the skills and motivation needed for success.

 

Mdantsane, South Africa (29 May 2025) – A significant percentage of youngsters in the Eastern Cape achieve poor results in language and mathematics, do not have access to sports equipment and have experienced some form of trauma or abuse.

It is this alarming and unfair reality, which threatens the potential and prosperity of many youth in a single province, that has inspired Jono Kruger to not only co-found Edu-Sport in East London but also support the cause in just about every way possible.

Edu-Sport is a youth empowerment organisation that provides education and sport to those who need it most. Through its Cubs Rugby Learning Academy, it provides educational and sporting opportunities to young children in the Mdantsane community of the Eastern Cape.

The academy’s primary goal is to provide a hub of excellence to children who could never afford the experience.

The Cub’s programme, in particular, is designed to ensure that the challenges these children face are addressed early on in their lives, while providing opportunities and a safe space for children to learn, play and grow.

To further fuel the initiative’s reach and impact, Jono will be running the ultimate human race, the Comrades Marathon, to raise critical funds for this life-changing work.

“We see Cubs players developing the passion, skills, knowledge, and motivation to become successful adults.

“Funds raised will contribute to the education, coaching and nutrition of the Cubs participants,” Jono says.

Every step Jono takes from the moment that the starting pistol goes off will be for the future generation.

Pledges or donations can be made on Jono’s crowdfunding campaign on Sport for Lives.


Sources: Sport for Lives | Edu-Sport
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Ntokozo Makhaza Realises Springbok Dreams, Included in Alignment Squad Camp! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/ntokozo-makhaza-springbok-dreams/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/ntokozo-makhaza-springbok-dreams/#respond Wed, 28 May 2025 14:00:05 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=152506

If anyone had told rising rugby star Ntokozo Makhaza that he would one day be included in the Springbok alignment squad camp, he would have looked at them and laughed....

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If anyone had told rising rugby star Ntokozo Makhaza that he would one day be included in the Springbok alignment squad camp, he would have looked at them and laughed. But his hard tackles and sprinting tries have propelled him forward, bringing the incredible possibility of one day wearing the green and gold for South Africa within reach!

 

Cape Town, South Africa (28 May 2025) – Hailing from the small town of Harrismith in the Free State, Ntokozo Makhaza grew up playing a lot of soccer, but that soon changed when he was introduced to rugby in primary school, probably the very best thing to happen to him!

He currently plays for the UCT Ikeys Tigers as a wing and fullback and has recently become one of South Africa’s most exciting young rugby prospects.

Makhaza was for the second time named Player of the Year as well as Backline Player of the Year in the recent Varsity Cup season. But that is just the tip of the iceberg for the young player’s promising career, as he recently was informed that he has been included in the 54-man Springbok alignment camp!

The 23-year-old admitted that receiving the news came as a surprise, and that he couldn’t help but wonder if it was legit. However, once it was confirmed, Makhaza shared that he was nervous and excited for the opportunity to level up his game.

“I was very surprised that I’m part of the camp. A bit nervous, but excited. I’m just happy and motivated to see that people are watching and monitoring varsity rugby. It inspired me to believe more that the dreams I have are possible,” Makhaza tells UCT, where he is a Bachelor of Social Science student.

In another major step in his already impressive rise, Makhaza will also join the Free State Cheetahs in July for the upcoming Currie Cup season, affording him the opportunity to contribute to rebuilding a team that’s investing in youth.

“They’re giving youngsters a chance, and I want to make the most of that,” he says.

“It’s about learning, growing, and giving my best.”

With every opportunity that comes this rugby player’s way, Makhaza’s main focus remains on soaking up everything he can at the Springbok alignment camp, something he never imagined even in his wildest dreams.

“If anyone would say I would be part of the Springbok alignment camp a few years back, or even at the beginning of this year, I would have looked at him and laughed.

“To me, it’s an honour and I’m privileged and humbled. I think it’s been created by the coaches and players because of the opportunity and platform they gave me. I’m humbled and excited for the opportunity,” shares a grateful Makhaza.


Sources: University of Cape Town
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Jordy Smith Does It Again With His Second Win of the Season https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/jordy-smith-does-it-again-with-his-second-win-of-the-season/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/jordy-smith-does-it-again-with-his-second-win-of-the-season/#respond Tue, 27 May 2025 12:00:55 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=152347

South African surfing star Jordy Smith has successfully claimed his second win of the season, climbing the leaderboard to claim the top spot ahead of his competition!   Australia (27...

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South African surfing star Jordy Smith has successfully claimed his second win of the season, climbing the leaderboard to claim the top spot ahead of his competition!

 

Australia (27 May 2025) — Legendary South African surfer and Durbanite Jordy Smith has claimed his second win of the World Surf League (WSL) season thanks to a smashing score at the 2025 Western Australia Margaret River Pro!

Against competitor Griffin Colapinto from the United States, Smith claimed a score of 12.00, placing the South African surfer in the first spot and 4.84 points ahead of Brazilian talent Italo Ferreira in the Championship Tour standings. It was pace and patience that stood in the surfer’s favour most during the final heat, as well as a dedication to making every wave count.

The 37-year-old surfer dedicated the win to both his family and iconic surf filmmaker Jack McCory who recently passed away.

“Jack McCoy is someone who has inspired me throughout my whole life. All his movies, his videos, his family, this is for you guys.”

There are still five events left in the Tour schedule, with hopes high that Smith will keep his winning momentum! The next round will take place in sunny California for the Lexus Trestles Pro from 9 June.

Last month, in Punta Roca, El Salvador, Smith made fans enormously proud when he secured his 7th Championship Tour Victory in a riveting and emotionally charged moment for his supporters everywhere. This was the surfer’s first victory of this kind in 8 years and marked a proud moment for the veteran.


Sources: Supplied
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Ruche Moodley Rides Through Pain in Gritty Moto3 Comeback https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/ruche-moodley-rides-through-pain-in-gritty-moto3-comeback/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/ruche-moodley-rides-through-pain-in-gritty-moto3-comeback/#respond Mon, 26 May 2025 14:30:28 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=152209

South Africa’s Ruche Moodley takes on Silverstone just weeks after undergoing surgery due to a crash; this young athlete is showing just what he is made of!   United Kingdom...

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South Africa’s Ruche Moodley takes on Silverstone just weeks after undergoing surgery due to a crash; this young athlete is showing just what he is made of!

 

United Kingdom (26 May 2025) – South Africa’s Ruche Moodley returned to the Moto3 grid with a lion-hearted performance at Silverstone, showing grit, determination, and an unwavering commitment to his dream, even as he raced through pain and penalties.

Just weeks earlier, the Gqeberha-born teen was left recovering from a dramatic crash during the Spanish Grand Prix. A mechanical failure sent him hurtling into the gravel on lap one, fracturing the radius in his dominant right arm. He underwent surgery in Barcelona, where a titanium plate and half a dozen screws were needed to patch things up. But even with his arm still bandaged, Moodley was back on the training bike, refusing to let a broken bone keep him off track for long.

“I was really frustrated not being able to race,” Moodley admitted. “From the moment I got back from hospital, I started training again. I just wanted to be ready.”

His recovery was nothing short of relentless. Between physiotherapy and fitness drills, he managed to miss only a single race, sitting out the French Grand Prix, before being medically cleared by the FIM to return for round seven at Silverstone.

“It felt great to get the all clear,” he shared before the British GP. “Watching the race from the couch was tough. I just wanted to be back on the bike.”

But racing at one of Moto3’s fastest, most physical tracks with a still-healing arm was no easy task. Add to that a double long-lap penalty carried over from the crash in Spain, and Silverstone became more than just a comeback; it was a true test of mental and physical resilience.

Moodley qualified 21st, managing both his tyres and the dull ache in his arm. In the race, he made the smart call to serve his penalties early to avoid carrying them into the next round.

“I knew I had to be cautious. If I got taken out early, those penalties would follow me,” he explained. “So I played it safe at the start, took my long laps, and just focused on finishing.”

That finish came in 20th place, an impressive result considering he was racing with limited strength, numbness in his arm, and no prior race rhythm after weeks off the track.

“That felt like the longest race of my life,” Moodley admitted. “I lost feeling in my arm towards the end, but I kept my head down. I was just counting down the laps.”

With his Silverstone return behind him, Ruche is focused on regaining full strength before heading to Aragon in two weeks.

“This race was about proving to myself that I can bounce back. I’ll be stronger at Aragon,” he said with quiet confidence.

Still only 18, Moodley’s resilience has earned him growing admiration both at home and on the world stage. One thing is certain: Ruche isn’t just chasing podiums; he’s proving that the South African heart belongs on the global grid.


Sources: Double Apex
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Bayanda Walaza Blazes to New Heights: Teen Sensation Shatters 100m Record in Zagreb! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/bayanda-walaza-shatters-100m-record-zagreb/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/bayanda-walaza-shatters-100m-record-zagreb/#respond Mon, 26 May 2025 08:00:23 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=152129

Oh, he didn’t just run, he soared! Sprinting teen sensation Bayanda Walaza didn’t just win the 100m race at the Boris Hankezovic Memorial in Zagreb; he smashed his own national...

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Oh, he didn’t just run, he soared! Sprinting teen sensation Bayanda Walaza didn’t just win the 100m race at the Boris Hankezovic Memorial in Zagreb; he smashed his own national junior record while setting a new one that will certainly be hard to beat!

 

Sports Park Mladost, Zagreb (26 May 2025) – I think it’s safe to say that sprinting teen sensation Bayanda Walaza is solidifying his position as a global force and breaking history with every race he runs!

In a stunning display of raw power and undeniable talent, this past Saturday, Walaza powerfully shattered yet another record at the Boris Hankezovic Memorial in Zagreb, clocking in at 9.94 seconds in the 100m!

Not only is this the fourth fastest time ever recorded by a South African and a new national junior record, but it also marks the breaking of his very own national U20 record of 9.99, which he set in Tshwane in March.

Walaza finished well clear of German sprinter Owen Ansah, who took second place in Zagreb in 10.20, EWN reports.

The incredible feat comes after the incredible gold win at the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China, in which Walaza was a part of the team that delivered a world-leading time of 37.61 seconds in the men’s 4x100m relay.

This 19-year-old athlete has been on a meteoric rise since he first caught our attention last year when he made the 2024 SA Olympic team, where he went on to clinch silver in the 4×100 metres relay race. He further won gold in the U20 World Athletics Champs and has shattered just about every record in his midst!

Walaza’s success on the international stage provides an inspiring example of how talent can be cultivated and dreams can be realised. With every race, Bayanda Walaza isn’t just running; he’s breaking history and signalling a thrilling future for South African sprinting!


Sources: World Athletics
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Celebrated Road Race to Take the Streets of Tshwane Soon https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/celebrated-road-race-to-take-the-streets-of-tshwane-soon/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/celebrated-road-race-to-take-the-streets-of-tshwane-soon/#respond Mon, 26 May 2025 06:30:38 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=152063

It’s almost time for the Tshwane chapter of the SPAR Women’s Challenge; now in its 28th year!   Tshwane, South Africa (26 May 2025) — It’s almost time to hit...

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It’s almost time for the Tshwane chapter of the SPAR Women’s Challenge; now in its 28th year!

 

Tshwane, South Africa (26 May 2025) — It’s almost time to hit the road as part of a sea of solidarity thanks to one of South Africa’s most celebrated road race events run by women, for women, the SPAR Women’s Challenge!

The Tshwane chapter of the race is just around the corner come Saturday, 2 August and will invite scores of runners to challenge themselves under this year’s theme, #Twenty20Thrive.

This is the 28th year of the Women’s Challenge Tshwane, which has become an entire movement championing women as Divisional Marketing Director Ralph Rajagopaul highlights.

“Our continued involvement stems from a deep-rooted belief in the power of women and the profound impact a united community can have,’ Ralph adds. “This year, with our #Twenty20Thrive theme, we aim to encourage every participant to embrace their journey towards empowerment and health, and we are incredibly proud to kick off by supporting vital causes in the Tshwane community.”

As always, the celebrated road race will see the streets taken over in pink as participants tackle 5km and 10km stretches. There will also be prizes, the opportunity to compete in the Grand Prix event, and a whole lot of camaraderie to soak in as runners put one foot in front of the other to mobilise the fight against Gender-Based Violence and step towards accessible women’s empowerment.

There are 3 Entry Types:

  • 5km Entry
  • 10km Entry (with valid ASA license)
  • 10km Entry (requiring temporary ASA license)

Details:

When: Saturday, 2 August at 2 pm

Where: SuperSport Park, Centurion

How: Find out more details or enter, here.


Sources: SPAR
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Ironman Spotlight: Naor Lombard Tops the Podium at SA Lifesaving Champs! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/ironman-spotlight-naor-lombard-tops-the-podium-at-sa-lifesaving-champs/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/ironman-spotlight-naor-lombard-tops-the-podium-at-sa-lifesaving-champs/#respond Sun, 25 May 2025 12:00:28 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=152013

Naor Lombard claimed the honour of being the highest point scorer in the Open Men’s division at the 2025 South African Lifesaving Championships all while defending his title as the...

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Naor Lombard claimed the honour of being the highest point scorer in the Open Men’s division at the 2025 South African Lifesaving Championships all while defending his title as the Ironman.

 

Gqeberha, South Africa (25 May 2025) — At just 20-years-old, Naor Lombard has realised a lifelong goal after he earned his place as the highest point scorer in the Open Men’s division at the 2025 South African Lifesaving Championships.

This was a season-best performance for the Clifton Surf Lifesaving Club and National Team athlete, and one that’s come after dedicated training that included a full racing season in Australia.

“Being the highest point scorer has always been a goal of mine,” shared Naor. “I’m stoked with the result—but even more so with how much I’ve improved over the season.”

A standout moment saw Naor defend his title in the premier Ironman event. The Ironman event is notorious for the challenge it presents both physically and mentally.

However, as Naor explains, the real difficulty lies not in the racing but in the training.

Not one to refrain from giving others their flowers, Naor spotlighted the efforts of his Clifton teammates.

“Clifton is like family. The senior boys had this energy that felt electric—we pushed harder for each other, especially in the team events. I was racing even harder for the team than I was individually.”

Other athletes he celebrated included Amica de Jager who recently made an incredible comeback.

Noar and Amica

“Amica is such a dedicated athlete and a positive person—it’s always special to share a podium with someone like that, especially when we’re representing the same club and sponsor.”

Looking ahead, Naor will continue to navigate life as a student-athlete; undertaking an elite training schedule, part-time work and his studies.

The champ is also gearing up for biggies like the Coolangatta Gold, which also happens to be his favourite event.

His advice to others is wise beyond his years:

“The biggest lessons come from your losses. Review your races. Figure out what went wrong. And always stay clear of distractions. Fun doesn’t have to come at the cost of your goals.”


Sources: Christina Mallion 
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Mthi Mthimkulu Shares Insights into Record-Breaking SA Relay Triumph in China! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/mthi-mthimkulu-sprints-record-breaking-relay/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/mthi-mthimkulu-sprints-record-breaking-relay/#respond Fri, 23 May 2025 12:00:52 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=151987

Mthi Mthimkhulu, a blazing 400m athlete from the University of the Free State (UFS), just proved that dreams do come true on the world stage after sprinting with heart at...

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Mthi Mthimkhulu, a blazing 400m athlete from the University of the Free State (UFS), just proved that dreams do come true on the world stage after sprinting with heart at the World Athletics Relays in China, helping South Africa make some serious history!

 

Guangzhou, China (23 May 2025) – He set out to make his mark in a historic event for South African athletics, and Mthi Mthimkhulu did just that.

Earlier this month, the standout 400m athlete from the University of the Free State (UFS) recently represented South Africa as a key player in both the men’s and mixed 4x400m relay teams at the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China.

According to UFS, Mthimkhulu competed in the SA men’s 4x400m relay heat alongside teammates Udeme Okon, Lythe Pillay, and Zakithi Nene on Saturday, 10 May. Together, they absolutely owned the track, clocking a world-leading time of 3:00.00 in the first heat!

The following day, Mthimkulu participated in the mixed 4x400m relay, where the team finished in fifth place.

And in a truly epic final, the men’s 4x400m relay team stormed to victory in a mind-blowing 2:57.50, not only winning gold but also shattering the South African record set at the Paris 2024 Olympics!

Mthimkhulu’s selection for the South African relay teams was based on his impressive ranking, as he is currently ranked in the top six in South Africa, UFS states.

The championships in Guangzhou proved to be a landmark event, with South Africa securing double gold medals in both the men’s 4x100m and 4x400m relays, while the women’s 4x400m team claimed a bronze medal.

All four South African teams advanced to the finals of their respective events, earning automatic qualification for the World Athletics Championships scheduled to be held in Tokyo in September 2025!

For Mthimkhulu, this wasn’t just a win, it was a triumph for South African athletics.

He humbly credits a large part of his success to his athletics coach, Thomas Jonda.

“If it wasn’t for him, I don’t believe I would have been in this position I am in today,” he said, adding that their commitment and belief as a two-man team helped them achieve these accolades together.


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

 

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Chess Prodigy Bulelani Gets Closer to Realising His Dreams Of Becoming a Grandmaster! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/chess-prodigy-bulelani-dreams-grandmaster/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/chess-prodigy-bulelani-dreams-grandmaster/#respond Fri, 23 May 2025 11:00:13 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=151935

What began as a childhood pastime at the tender age of four has been groomed into a competitive passion for Bulelani Stephen, propelling him to become a professional chess player...

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What began as a childhood pastime at the tender age of four has been groomed into a competitive passion for Bulelani Stephen, propelling him to become a professional chess player who is set to make SA very proud.

 

Johannesburg, South Africa (23 May 2025) – Chess is a game of patience, calculation, pattern recognition, identifying strategic patterns and making sound choices under pressure, often with limited time. It’s not for everyone, but for 16-year-old Bulelani Stephen, it is everything!

He started chess as a leisure sport when he was just four years old, before falling into a competitively driven love with it and has since worked his way up to becoming a professional chess player.

With the help of his school, chess coaches, parents and siblings, chess is no longer just a fun pass time for the Prestige College learner, it is a lifestyle and a career he is steadily pursuing.

This driven board master has obtained national colours since he was 14. He has now, after an impressive run at the South African Junior Closed Chess Championship in Cape Town last month, been presented with the opportunities to represent South Africa this year at the Fide World Cadet Chess Championship, the African Youth Chess Championship and the Commonwealth Chess Championship.

These global chess tournaments are more than just competitions for Bulelani, they are crucial steps toward his ultimate goal of becoming an International Chess Grandmaster someday.

However, one hurdle stands in his way.

“I have to sponsor myself financially for all these events and cannot do it without your help,” he says.

To help fund his audacious chess dreams, Bulelani has launched a BackaBuddy campaign, appealing for support to help him seize these life-changing opportunities.

To support his ascent in the world of chess, visit Bulelani’s crowdfunding page here.


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

 

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Professor to Run Comrades for ‘Missing Middle Students’ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/professor-to-run-comrades-for-missing-middle-students/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/professor-to-run-comrades-for-missing-middle-students/#respond Fri, 23 May 2025 09:00:41 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=151939

Many bright and talented students are left behind as they do not qualify for government funding, but also can’t afford higher education fees in their own capacity. In an effort...

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Many bright and talented students are left behind as they do not qualify for government funding, but also can’t afford higher education fees in their own capacity. In an effort to support these ‘Missing Middle Students’, one professor is running the Comrades to raise funds!

 

Pretoria, South Africa (23 May 2025) — Professor André Ganswindt, Director of the Mammal Research Institute at the University of Pretoria will soon join runners from across the country at the upcoming Comrades Marathon. However, his reasons for running the phenomenal race are slightly different to most people’s driving factors. Prof Ganswindt is running with ‘missing middle students’ in mind, a gap that continues to grow in the struggling economy of South Africa.

‘Missing middle students’ as a term refers to those who are not in such a state of poverty that they can qualify for certain funding boosts (say, from the government or various trusts) but are not wealthy enough to afford university fees in a personal capacity either.

Prof Ganswindt hopes to run in support of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal’s Scholarship Fund which provides financial assistance to academically strong learners who’d otherwise struggle to complete their education due to funding.

A respected wildlife researcher who has dedicated his life to protecting wildlife and empowering students, Prof Ganswindt knows the power that cracking a door open can have not just for a talented individual, but for a greater Africa.

Having mentored the next generation of researchers in our continent as the holder of the Oppenheimer Chair for Emerging African Scientists in Non-Invasive Wildlife Research, the Prof knows well that the more learners who access opportunities, the better our chances of a brighter future are.

You can support the Prof’s campaign here.


Sources: TuksAlumni; BackaBuddy 
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.

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