Running for a reason! SPCA legend Sarah Van Heerden and her daughter Alex are dedicating the Ultimate Human Race to pavement specials.

Kloof, South Africa (29 May 2025) — The Kloof and Highway SPCA’s Sarah Van Heerden is a champion of underdogs. While you might think all shelter pets are underdogs, there are still levels to underdogship. Some dogs get adopted quickly, while others wait for months if not years, simply because they’re pavement specials or senior animals.

But Sarah and her daughter, Alex want to change the narrative around these invisible animals while giving them a boost, and they’re using the Ultimate Human Race as a means to spread their message on behalf of the entire SPCA team.

Sarah is no stranger to pushing her body to extremes for the betterment of animals. Last year, she cycled an incredible 1,600kms over a weekn in the Western Cape to raise funds for forgotten animals and managed to fundraise over R120 000 for the SPCA and its services.

How will she fare at the Comrades? Well, this is her 14th time doing it!

Sarah and Alex will run specifically for the pavement specials in an effort to support sterilisations. Sarah hopes to make 60 sterilisations possible, which will cost around R30,000.

“Every Comrades runner matters, just as every animal in our community matters,” Sarah says.

“I am a below average, untalented jogger, I am just another runner, but if my finish counts for anything, let it be a finish making a different to JUST another brown dog.”

You can support Sarah and Alex via their fundraiser, here. 

Sources: Kloof and Highway SPCA 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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

The post Mom and Daughter Dedicate Their Comrades to Pavement Specials  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

In 2022, Brittany McCormick pushed herself to learn to walk after her wheelchair broke (she has Cerebral Palsy). She aimed to tackle 100kms, and ended up walking 200kms to raise funds for children with disabilities. Years on, and Brittany’s journey has positively blossomed:

Cape Town, South Africa (28 May 2025) — In 2022, Brittany McCormick caught South Africa’s attention when she decided to walk 100kms after her wheelchair broke. Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at a young age, her wheelchair was how she moved through the world. When it broke, Brittany realised just how reliant she was on it, and how much of a game-changer raising funds for wheelchairs would be for those who desperately need them but simply don’t have the means to buy wheels of their own.

Inspired by her own struggle without her wheelchair, Brittany did an incredible thing. She set a goal to walk 100kms to raise funds for children with disabilities, and ended up walking 200kms.

Since then, Brittany has seen her journey blossom and some of her brightest dreams have come true.

In her words!

From Survival to Significance: My Journey as a Motivational Speaker

Some of you may know me from a previous feature on Good Things Guy, and for those who don’t—hello! I’m Brittany McCormick, and I believe with all my heart that a life filled with purpose is one worth fighting for. So much has changed since my last incredible moment in the spotlight, and I feel deeply honoured to share what’s unfolded in my life since becoming a motivational speaker. But before we get into the extraordinary experiences of recent years, allow me to take you back a little.

A Premature Beginning

I was born at 25 weeks—so tiny, so fragile, and with a future that felt uncertain. Doctors weren’t sure if I would survive, and even if I did, they weren’t confident I’d be able to live independently. At one year old, I was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a neurological condition that affects movement, posture, and muscle coordination. But despite that diagnosis, my parents made a life-altering decision: they would raise me to be as independent and strong as possible.

That decision shaped my life. It meant tough love, big challenges, and endless determination. But most importantly, it meant that my condition would not define my dreams.

And I cannot talk about this journey without speaking about my parents—the pillars of my life. My mom and dad have been my greatest encouragers, my unwavering support system, and my guiding lights. They’ve fought battles beside me, carried me through my lowest moments, and stood with me in every victory. They are my confidants, my teachers, and the foundation of the woman I am today. I am beyond blessed to have them in my life, along with the love and support of my sister and brothers who have also walked this journey with me every step of the way.

Schooling, Struggles and Finding My Voice

I spent many years in a special needs school, where I received support—but I also faced real challenges. Emotionally, I struggled. Academically, I wasn’t thriving. My parents eventually made the decision to homeschool me, hoping a more tailored environment would work better. But even that came with its own trials.

Still, I had a dream. I wanted to be a motivational speaker. I wanted to use my voice to inspire others, to tell people that they can do hard things, of beating the odds—just like I had been doing my whole life.

Eventually, I enrolled in a public speaking course. That course didn’t just teach me how to speak—it taught me how to believe in myself. I learned how to share my story with power, clarity, and confidence. I discovered my message. And most of all, I discovered my purpose.

The 200km Breakthrough

Then came a test of resilience unlike any other. My wheelchair broke, and suddenly, a crucial tool I relied on every day was gone. But rather than retreat in defeat, I leaned into the moment. I launched a campaign—not only to raise funds for a new wheelchair, but to give back to the community that had always supported me.

I set a goal to walk 100 kilometers. It was ambitious. It was bold. And it was bigger than just me. Step by step, day by day, I pushed myself through pain and perseverance. And six months later, I had walked 200 kilometers.

The campaign caught the attention of people across the country. I was featured in the press and on various media platforms. What started as a crisis turned into a national message of hope, showing what’s possible when faith meets effort.

Doors Begin to Open

Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to speak at events, churches, and organisations across South Africa. I’ve spoken for the Growth Credo team, Ladies of All Nations South Africa, Life Streams International Church, Rock Mining Components, and the Insure Group. I’ve also shared my message through interviews on platforms like The Red Corner Show, Tina Talks, and Creative Space.

Radio stations like Radio Pulpit and CCFM have featured my story. I was blessed to be the August 2024 cover woman for Joy Magazine and was also featured in Karoo Sisters online magazine. Podcasts like The Different Way of Seeing and The Qotivated Podcast welcomed me to speak about my journey and my faith.

It hasn’t stopped there. I’ve had the honor of being invited by organizations such as the Subrena Love Foundation, Joy Magazine’s partners, and even networks of women in business. And all of this—every single opportunity—has grown from the seeds of a dream I refused to let go of.

The Heart Behind the Hustle

Let me be clear: chasing your dreams is not easy. There are days when it feels impossible. There are days when people don’t believe in you, or you don’t believe in yourself. But I’m here to tell you it’s worth it.

It’s worth every tear, every late night, every unanswered message, every “no,” and every moment of doubt. Because when you keep showing up, and when you trust God to open doors that no person can close, your life begins to reflect His glory.

I’m still growing, learning, and reaching for more. But one thing I know for sure is that I’m committed to being a motivation both on and off the stage—whether I’m speaking to a crowd of hundreds or encouraging someone one-on-one. Every interaction matters. Every life matters.

What’s Next?

My journey is far from over. I still have so much I want to do, so many people I want to reach. I hope to continue sharing my story, not just as a testimony of survival, but as a testament to the power of hope, purpose, and faith.

I want people to know that life’s hardest challenges can become the foundation for your greatest victories.

To anyone reading this who feels stuck, uncertain, or discouraged—I see you. I’ve been there. But if I’ve learned anything on this journey, it’s this: You are stronger than you know. And your story isn’t over yet.
Keep walking.

Sources: Brittany McCormick

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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

The post From Survival to Significance: Brittany McCormick’s Inspiring Journey  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A kind petrol attendant named Nelson recently helped grandmother Gail out of quite the pickle after she started having tyre troubles along the highway!

Meadowdale, South Africa (26 May 2025) — In late April, grandmother Gail Erwee found herself in a pickle.

Driving along the highway with her 6-year-old grandson, Gail noticed that something wasn’t right with her car’s wheel. It had started making a noise, and soon, the smell of rubber raised Gail’s alarm bells. But, because of her grandson being in the car, she decided it best not to stop along the highway and push forward to get to a garage to sort out her tyre.

Gail managed to get to a petrol station in Meadowdale. It was a relief that she’d been able to get to some place safer than the highway, but it also begged the question, ‘What to do now?’.

It was at the same petrol station that this question was answered when she encountered the warmth of a petrol attendant named Nelson Ratabane.

Nelson didn’t just have a friendly smile or comfort to offer Gail. Instead, he ended up becoming her knight in green and blue armour.

“Nelson Ratabane, a friendly pump attendant came to my rescue and and assured me that there is no need to wait for help and was prepared to change the flat tyre thus saving us time and money,” Gail tells Good Things Guy.

Thanks to Nelson’s act of kindness, Gail’s tyre troubles were swiftly resolved, and the pickle she was in had become a fond memory.

“I would have had to wait at least half an hour for my husband to come and help me,” Gail reflects. “[Nelson] is an asset to his company and the community.”

People like Nelson remind us that help and hope can find us in the form of strangers. A few minutes of our time, a little stretch of going out of our way, and we might just save someone else’s day.

Sources: Email Submission 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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

The post Petrol Attendant Helps Grandmother in a Pickle!  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

South Africa’s own “Katniss Everdeen” archer Neve Quail has a shot at competing in the European Youth Cup!

Durban, South Africa (19 May 2025) — A fun evening at Scouts attempting to achieve an Archery badge changed Neve Quail’s life forever. Today, 17-year-old Neve is a skilled archer ranked first in her age group and as the second-highest female recurve archer in South Africa. With multiple records, National colours and podium moments under her belt, Neve’s well on her way to becoming an Olympian. Not to mention, she also has a shot at a huge opportunity ahead of her that would serve her greatly in getting there, the European Youth Cup.

This is an inspiring achievement for any young athlete. However, it’s also an extra special one for the Type 1 Diabetes community.

Neve and her family learned that she had Type 1 Diabetes at just 6 years old. Unlike Type 2 Diabetes, Type 1 is not chalked down to one’s lifestyle. Instead, it is a chronic auto-immune condition often diagnosed early on in life. The pancreas stops insulin production, which means that one essentially has to fill in for the organ (read: a life of maintenance and insulin injections).

Neve is one of those impressive people who, as her mom Heidi shares, has not let her condition stand in her way (even though we’re sure it very well could).

Despite all her training and talent, it’s also her mental fortitude that has led Neve to her big opportunity at the European Youth Cup, an opportunity she’s hoping South Africa will help her see through.

Along with her Team SA counterparts, Neve’s competition at the European Youth Cup could offer a massive boost in how she ranks worldwide, ultimately influencing her participation in events like the World Games and the Youth Olympics.

The South African National Archery Association’s budgetary constraints have meant that the archers need to pay their way.

As Heidi Quail explains, the family are not in a position to pay for Neve’s opportunity. As such, they are holding thumbs that if a lot of people come together to give what they can, Neve could get to make South Africa proud and show the world what her arrows are made of.

You can support Neve’s crowdfund, here. 

Sources: Email Submission 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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

The post Archer Neve Nabs Shot at European Youth Cup  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

After a three-year hiatus from competitive lifesaving, 25 year old Amica de Jager has made a sensational return to the sport, claiming a prestigious title at the 2025 National Lifesaving Championships!

South Africa (14 May 2025) — Competitive lifesaving recently welcomed the triumphant return of Amica de Jager following a three-year hiatus from the sport.

Amica, a renowned open water swimmer, delivered a remarkable all-round performance across both Pool and Surf events, securing gold medals in the Run Swim Run, Surf Swim, Board Rescue, and Tube Rescue. She also placed second in the Iron event and delivered strong top-eight finishes in both Board and Surfski disciplines and claimed the prestigious Victrix Ludorum title at the 2025 National Lifesaving Championships! 

For Amica, her comeback meant the world to her.

“I was very nervous coming back after such a long break, but I couldn’t have asked for a better Nationals. I loved every second of it,” the champ shares.

The six-day competition showcased her versatility and endurance, including a standout performance in the pool where she achieved personal bests, OPEX (Operation Excellence) times, and helped her club, Clifton Lifesaving, dominate the relay events, winning three out of four.

Known for her ability to straddle two elite sporting codes, the Velocity Trade Ambassador continues to chase excellence in both open water swimming and lifesaving.

“Lifesaving and swimming go hand in hand,” Amica says. “One is individual, the other is team-based — and together they make me a stronger, more complete athlete.”

However, Amica’s campaign was not without its challenges, both physical and emotional, but through strategic recovery techniques including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, consistent rest, and the valuable experience gained from the Western Cape’s Rescue Sport Series, she found her stride.

“The biggest hurdle was believing I could return to form. But the series gave me the confidence and preparation I needed.”

Looking ahead, Amica has her sights set on international waters. She will compete at the Blu Smooth Kromme Descent, before representing South Africa at the 22nd World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. 

Later this year, she plans to race on the World Aquatics Open Water World Cup circuit, and hopes to be re-selected for the South African Lifesaving team set to compete at the International Surf Rescue Challenge in New Zealand.

A role model for young athletes, Amica shares the following advice:

“I want young athletes, especially girls, to know that anything is possible. Don’t let others define your limits. Compete hard, love your competition, and make friends along the way — that’s what makes sport truly special.”

Sources: Supplied—Christina Mallion

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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

The post Amica de Jager’s Makes a Golden Return to Lifesaving! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A micro-film is spotlighting the Black Mambas, a fierce group of women who work in the Kruger to protect our wildlife.

Kruger National Park, South Africa (13 May 2025) — They’re the boots on the ground when trouble strikes. The snare removers who save wild lives, and the women showing young girls that there is more than enough room at the table for women to protect the future of our natural heritage. The Black Mambas are legendary in more ways than one, and now a new micro-film is giving us a glimpse into the mind of a Mamba!

The Black Mambas, an all-female anti-poaching unit formed in 2013, have been a longstanding source of inspiration to their communities. These fearless women have defied initial scepticism, operating without firearms to protect wildlife, and have successfully saved numerous animals from the deadly snares of poachers.

Some of their team have gone on to earn incredible acknowledgements, like Sergeant Nkateko Letti Mzimba, who won the Conservation ‘Oscar’ for Best Field Ranger in Africa, while the team as a whole have supported countless efforts of good for conservation, from their daily doings as rangers to educational awareness for the next generation. 

The micro-film by Wisani Ngwenya puts two Black Mambas into the spotlight: Leitah Mkhabela (Black Mambas Supervisor) and Malongani Naledi (a Crime Prevention Unit Sergeant).

In a short but impactful clip, the two women share what led them to the Black Mambas, what challenges they face and an insight into their brave mindsets.

As Leitah shares, the greater mission of the Mambas is to make the Greater Kruger a harder place for poachers to poach. She was inspired to join the unit after learning of its male-dominated underpinnings and wanted to be one of the trailblazing women protecting animals!

Malongani was drawn to the Mambas because of the rhinos. She didn’t just want to be any hero, but rather one who protects the precious species.

Of course, this is a field of challenges. It’s dangerous, demanding and not for the faint of heart. The Mambas shared that consistent challenges range from elephants chasing them to finding animals trapped in snares. But, as both explain, they are trained for it all.

What was incredible to watch, was the passion both Mambas spoke with, and the humility. These are women who are contributing to a better future for our wildlife every day—through their hands-on work for wildlife, the education initiatives via the Bush Babies Programme and by inspiring more women to break the glass ceiling. Yet, they were remarkably humble in the way that all good leaders are. Indeed, not all heroes wear capes; some (in this case) wear camouflage.

“Being a Black Mamba, it means I’m unique and I’m beautiful. And I’m a woman; I’m a mother. I have a little girl and she shares with me the love or the motherhood with the animals…so that makes me a Mother of the Earth.”—Leitah Mkhabela.

Watch: Micro-film Gives a Glimpse Into the Mind of a Mamba

Sources: YouTube; GTG 

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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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When Jay-Lee’s primary school shut its doors for good, many farm children like her were faced with uncertainty. But something incredible happened in the nick of time. And without it, Jay-Lee may never have become the young adult on her way to becoming a teacher!

Overberg, South Africa (01 May 2025) — At just 18 years old, Jay-Lee is an inspiring example of resilience, ambition, and quiet determination. Born and raised on Diepgat Farm, she has one older and one younger brother and lives with her family in the close-knit farming community she has always called home.

Jay-Lee had attended the local government school, Diepgat Primary. However, when she was 12, Diepgat Primary officially closed due to funding issues.

Just like that, the educational future of many children from nearby farms, including Jay-Lee, was left anxiously uncertain.

However, it did not last long, thanks to NPO, the Pebbles Project, which stepped in and established the Pebbles Academy. The Pebbles Academy is an independent school providing quality education to children from Grade R to Grade 7 from around 40 neighbouring farms, including Diepgat. For many young learners, the Academy has been a lifeline. For Jay-Lee, it quickly became more than just a school and, rather, a second home.

“It was amazing,” she reflects. “The staff at the Academy were always so friendly. And even to this day, they are willing to help us where they can.”

There were teachers at the Academy who left a deep impression on Jay-Lee. Their passion for education and their care for the learners sparked something in her, something that would end up shaping the dreams she had for her future.

“They made me want to be a teacher. I saw how they inspired us, and I want to do the same for others.”

After finishing high school (in the top five of her class, no less), Jay-Lee was accepted to university but had to postpone her studies due to financial challenges. Instead, she made the decision to work and save for her studies, taking a job as a hospitality host at a local winery.

“It was out of my comfort zone,” she admits. “I’ve never found it easy to speak up or interact with people. But just a few months in, I feel more confident and see this as preparation for becoming a teacher,” a positive Jay-Lee adds.

Her family couldn’t be prouder. “My parents sometimes feel disheartened that they can’t always support me financially in the way they wish they could. But their love and encouragement have never once wavered.”

When asked what Pebbles Project means to her, Jay-Lee speaks with quiet conviction:

“Without Pebbles, I honestly wouldn’t be where I am now. When Diepgat Primary closed, they were there. No one expected it, and no one knew what to do, but Pebbles did. They came to save us.”

The Pebbles Project team is immensely proud of Jay-Lee’s perseverance and strength, sharing that they know she will go on to achieve her dream of becoming a teacher and ultimately inspire the next generation just as she was once inspired.

Sources: Email Submission 

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

The post She Once Lost Her School. Now, Jay-Lee Dreams of Being a Teacher appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Never mind dodging potholes, We Love Bloem chose a different route, fixing the problems. Thanks to this community, over 50 potholes saw the end of the road.

Bloemfontein, South Africa (29 April 2025) — While most of us would be forgiven for dodging potholes, a community in Bloemfontein chose a different route—fixing the problems. Thanks to We Love Bloem, more than 50 potholes have been repaired to the relief of drivers everywhere.

Love Mangaung (We Love Bloem) is a newbie within the Love Cities Network who has wasted no time in rallying people to roll up their sleeves. Whether it’s been reclaiming their roads from a storm of potholes or getting involved in a neighbourhood clean-up, this is a group to learn from!

The Love Cities movement is a powerful non-profit initiative founded by Matt Hogarty, who also started Love Howick NPC. Observing Love Howick’s success over the years, it only made sense to make the circle bigger and spread the love further to other parts of South Africa. To this point, Love Cities now has partners all over the country and acts as their lighthouse for guidance in rebuilding their cities, inspiring active citizenship and, ultimately, seeing possibilities where others see only problems.

The storm of more than 50 potholes conquered on 26 April is a testament to what Love Cities stands for and has certainly given the people of Bloem over 50 reasons to be inspired by the power of people coming together.

Meanwhile, in more news, where potholes saw the last of their reign of havoc, people in Bedfordview are being encouraged to adopt potholes.

Through non-profit Better Bedfordview (who have repaired over 847 potholes since their launch in 2022), people can adopt a pothole of their choice, make a donation to the organisation that will do something about it, and ultimately make their suburb a better place to be.

You can find out more about We Love Bloem here and Better Bedfordview here.

Sources: We Love Bloem; Love Cities 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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

The post We Love Bloem Wins Against More Than 50 Potholes  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

In just a day, a new forest came to be thanks to Greenpop’s 2025 Reforest Fest and the many proud planters who made the little forest possible.

Platbos Forest Reserve, South Africa (25 April 2025) — After the final songs played and the last of festival-goers packed up their tents and headed home from the Platbos Forest Reserve, a forest of 5,000 freshly planted trees proudly remains.

A four-day celebration of community and change through community, the 14th Reforest Fest stood firmly in its reputation as an occasion where hope for the future is infectious.

Here, seasoned eco-warriors and rookie green thumbs from all walks of life unite every year with shovels and shared philosophies. With music to keep the momentum going and workshops to weave high spirits, festival-attendees relished in the magic at the continent’s southernmost forest.

 

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“We came together with 1000 active citizens, crew and volunteers this weekend to get active for the environment, planting 5000 trees in one day,” the Greenpop team shared. 

“Meaningful connections were forged, and our perspectives broadened, leaving us with memories which will echo far beyond the festival grounds.” 

What is Reforest Fest?

Since 2011, Greenpop’s Reforest Fest has grown and grown to become a leading tree-planting festival in Africa. Greenpop is an Environmental conservation organisation that began with a humble goal of planting 1,000 trees in a single month back in the 2010s. This seed of a goal has positively flourished to the point where the team have planted well over 250 000 trees to-date. 

With entertainment and moments for connection aplenty at the fedtivld (this year, the Ubuntu Stage came alive with culture and wisdom), the Reforest festival is more than just an opportunity to plant new trees—it’s a portal to understanding the essence that is  joy in helpful harmony with nature.

To some, it might just be 5000 new trees. But as Greenpop’s team put it beautifully, “[It’s] 5,000 more reasons to believe in the power of collective action.”

Sources: Greenpop; GTG 

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Karoline Hanks will soon turn Chapman’s Peak into her own Everest Challenge as she attempts to tackle Chappies a whopping fourteen times to support a community project bettering and beautifying Noordhoek!

Cape Town, South Africa (22 April 2025) — Karoline Hanks is bringing Everest to Cape Town—at least, in essence. While the intrepid local certainly won’t be importing the snow-topped marvel Southward anytime soon (especially not in this economy), she will be emulating the challenge of summiting Everest’s magnificent height (8,849m) in the pursuit of a better and more beautiful Noordhoek.

To turn her time on Chappies into an occasion worthy of a flag on Mount Everest, Karoline is planning to ascend and descend the peak a whopping fourteen times this July.

This effort is the ossification of her love for Project Noordhoeked—a non-profit community project founded by Karoline.

The project serves both individuals and the community, supporting employment while keeping Noordhoek green, tidy, and gorgeous.

The team that make up Project Noordhoeked care for the area in all sorts of ways; including building boardwalks and infrastructure like benches out of eco bricks (and maintaining them); landscaping gardens at Noordhoek Beach, maintaining Kakapo (the famed wire whale), clearing invasive plant species, collecting litter and managing an ever-expanding compost centre with waste from the local eateries.

Karoline’s Chappies’ moment, then, is a bold commitment to funding the project’s future endeavours and its longevity.

In a statement shared as part of her crowdfunding campaing, Karoline shared:

“I intend raising funds to ensure the continuity of our project, and in focusing attention on clearing the ever-growing Rooikrans forest on the slopes of Chapman’s Peak, which is where the Everesting Challenge is to be attempted.” 

Though the summits are still months away, support for the effort has already begun. You can contribute to the Everesting Challenge, here. 

Sources: 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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