What happens when someone who’s always worked in the background is asked to step into the spotlight? If you’re Darian Smith, you use that light to illuminate the path for others.

South Africa (28 May 2025) – For 25 years, Darian Smith has quietly walked a path few are brave enough to take. A path lined with sacrifice, service and silent victories. He’s never chased awards, applause or accolades. In fact, when he found out he was being honoured with the Humanitarian Award at the Annual Pllum Awards recently, his first instinct was to decline it.

Yes, really.

You see, for Darian, serving others has never been about recognition. His work has always been driven by purpose, not platforms. And yet, standing on that stage, with his son beside him, Darian came to realise something deeply important: sometimes the good needs a microphone too.

“I’ve believed and lived the understanding that our true rewards are not here on earth,” he shared, “but await us in heaven… I genuinely questioned whether I should accept the award at all.”

That reflection, that internal wrestle, became the heart of a message the world needed to hear.

Because for too long, we’ve been told that true humility is invisible. That to do good, we must do it quietly. But as Darian so eloquently pointed out, how can the next generation believe in kindness if they can’t see it?

“Would you rather the newspapers keep feeding the public stories of doom and gloom?” he asked, recalling a painful memory when someone told him he didn’t deserve to be featured two weeks in a row. “Would you prefer that, than seeing stories of hope, upliftment, empowerment, and light?”

That comment stayed with him. And in a world where gangster culture, quick cash and empty fame often steal the spotlight, Darian’s story is a reminder that our children deserve better role models. Real ones. Ones who serve, uplift and quietly change the world without needing the world to notice… but who step forward when the moment calls for it, so that others might be inspired to follow.

“I took my eldest son, Kale, with me that night because I wanted him to see it. To witness first-hand that recognition doesn’t only come with fame, or money, or violence. That integrity, character, and purpose matter.”

This isn’t just a story about an award. It’s a story about what happens when we decide not to shrink. When we honour the builders of our communities, the quiet warriors, the ones who give without asking for anything back. It’s about acknowledging that shining a light on good does not dim its purity. It amplifies its impact.

And that’s exactly what Wendy and Karl Conner have done through the Pllum Awards. By creating a space to recognise the everyday heroes among us… the teachers, the caregivers, the selfless changemakers, they’ve reminded us that honouring humanity is a vital part of expressing it.

Darian didn’t leave with just a trophy. He left with a flame, one that’s been burning for 25 years and now, somehow, burns even brighter.

“I left that evening not with a trophy, but with a flame inside me, burning stronger than ever. A renewed commitment to keep showing up. To keep building. To keep planting seeds of hope in the soil of a broken world.”

Because this moment isn’t just about him, it’s about every person who has ever wondered if doing good is enough.

It’s about reminding ourselves, and especially our children, that real strength lies in compassion. That greatness isn’t measured in what we accumulate but in what we give. That servant leadership, integrity and showing up for others are values worth lifting up and passing down.

Being a good human isn’t outdated. It’s essential.

And Darian Smith’s journey is proof that even the quietest acts of love and service can spark the kind of change our world needs most.

Sources: Darian Smith 

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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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From the dusty rugby fields of Bloemfontein to the world stage in Sacramento, Rayno Nel has just become the strongest man on Earth… and he did it for South Africa.

South Africa (19 May 2025) – South Africa, we’ve got a new hero. And he just became the strongest man on the planet.

In a historic triumph, 30-year-old Rayno Nel shocked the strongman world on 18 May 2025 in Sacramento. In his very first World’s Strongest Man final, the former rugby star clinched the title by the slimmest of margins, just 0.5 points, edging out defending champion Tom Stoltman. Nel became the first man from outside Europe or North America to win the 48-year-old competition. In the final Atlas Stones event, he loaded his fourth stone mere fractions of a second ahead of his rivals, sealing a 47–46.5 victory in an epic showdown. By standing atop the podium he has become the first WSM winner from South Africa, the continent of Africa and the southern hemisphere.

Nel’s journey to the top was anything but ordinary. Born in Upington and raised in the rugby heartland of Bloemfontein, he played for the Central University of Technology and the Free State Cheetahs. After retiring from rugby in 2019 to work as an electrical engineer, he discovered the sport of strongman. Starting in 2023, he dominated immediately, winning South Africa’s Strongest Man back-to-back and taking Africa’s Strongest Man in 2023 and 2024. He even swept the 2024 Strongman Champions League season, becoming the world series champion.

This rapid rise from local athlete to global contender set the stage for Sacramento… a “rookie turned legend” almost overnight.

At the 2025 finals, Nel stamped his authority early. On Day 1 he won the opening KNAACK Carry & Hoist, and took second place in both the massive 18-inch deadlift and the Hercules Hold. These results gave him a commanding lead (roughly seven points ahead of his nearest rival) going into Day 2. Stoltman fought back with wins in the Sunday events but Nel’s cushion was just enough. The title came down to the final Atlas Stones lift: Nel and Stoltman went head-to-head, stone-for-stone. Nel loaded his final stone a heartbeat faster than the competition, a tiny margin that secured his 47–46.5 victory.

Final standings confirmed the nail-biter: Nel 47.0 points, Stoltman 46.5, Canada’s Mitchell Hooper 43.5. In a sport often dominated by stalwarts from colder climates, a South African giant had emerged.

 

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The reaction back home was instant jubilation. In Mzansi, Nel’s triumph was hailed as a rainbow-nation moment. He has made history as “the first African athlete to win the world strongman title in the 48-year history of the competition.” South Africans from Cape Town to Johannesburg took to social media in pride, calling it a national first.

Even South Africa’s official Government account posted, “HISTORY MADE! Congratulations to Rayno Nel, Africa’s first-ever World’s Strongest Man champion!”.

Nel himself was humble, saying he was “just over the moon” and that representing his country “feels surreal.”

“To represent (South Africa) in any way whatsoever, it feels surreal. I mean, we’re a small country with a lot of struggles. To have something like this I know means a lot to my people.”

He even quipped about post-competition celebrations, lamenting he couldn’t enjoy his favourite Black Label lager in California and would have to “try American beer tonight.”

For his part, Nel insists this is only the beginning. In a candid interview he said his progress has been rapid and he’s “still improving” every season.

“My strength came up really fast, and I’m still improving,” he said, a sign that he’s not resting on laurels.

His win has galvanised a nation. A reminder that in South Africa’s “rainbow nation,” even the strongest title in sport is now within reach.

Sources: USA Today | Wikipedia | Blecher Report | Giants Live 

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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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Forget Wagyu in Tokyo or Tomahawks in Texas…  two South African spots have just carved their names into steak history!

South Africa (16 May 2025) – South Africa is on fire with pride this week as two local steakhouses have cracked the 2025 World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants list.

Stellenbosch’s acclaimed VUUR took 87th place, and Johannesburg’s butcher-to-table The Blockman landed at 97th. It’s a thrilling achievement that has chefs, diners and the whole country beaming. After all, being ranked alongside the world’s very best is a hugely exciting vote of confidence in our home-grown talent.

VUUR (Stellenbosch)

Perched at Remhoogte Wine Estate in the Winelands, VUUR (Afrikaans for “fire”) lives up to its name with theatre-style open-fire cooking. Chef-owner Shaun Scrooby is a self-taught fire-master who uses up to six different types of wood to smoke, char and flame-roast each dish. The team crafts a seasonal seven-course menu showcasing the best local meats, seafood and veg, and every course is cooked on the spot and served at the table with stories from the chefs. Scrooby himself sums it up: “Fire cooking is still the name of the game.” No wonder VUUR – once a cozy old stable under a giant oak – has been hailed as Africa’s top meat destination.

Fun fact: VUUR’s new “Goose Island” outpost sits on a tiny dam island reachable by a little bridge, named for the Egyptian geese that used to live there.

The Blockman (Johannesburg)

In leafy Parkhurst, The Blockman is a steak lover’s paradise built around whole-animal butchery. Owner-chef Vassilios (Basil) Holiasmenos is both a trained chef and a butcher, and his philosophy is refreshingly simple and honest: “source ethically, butcher in-house, cook over coals and let the meat speak for itself.” Prime South African beef is all cut and aged on-site. From thick, dry-aged rib-eyes to lesser-known heritage breeds… and diners can even choose their steak from a big glass-fronted ageing room.

Each cut is cooked over wood coals and served with only salt and a touch of fat, letting the natural flavour shine. The Blockman’s menu also features clever seasonal sides (think ember-roasted carrots, bone-marrow bread and crisp salads) and a proudly South African wine list. It’s a warm, convivial space, exposed brick, glowing candlelight and gentle music, where the primal thrill of steak takes centre stage.

These nods on the global list are huge news for South Africa’s food scene. Not only does it shine a spotlight on our chefs and farms, it shows the world that South African steak and hospitality belong on the international stage. Both VUUR and The Blockman use local ingredients and time-honoured techniques, proving that innovation and quality are alive and well here.

Diners nationwide are celebrating. Many have already jumped online to book a table and taste the magic for themselves. It’s a joyous reminder that every braai and grill session is part of a proud culinary tradition.

Congratulations to Shaun, Basil (and all the teams) for this sizzling achievement. We couldn’t be more thrilled for you!

Sources: World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurant’s list 

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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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Two South African coffee shops just brewed their way onto the list of the world’s best… proving that when it comes to flavour, passion and community, Mzansi serves it hot.

South Africa (01 May 2025) – South Africans know good coffee. And now the world knows it too.

The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops for 2025 have just been announced and two proudly South African spots have earned their place among the best on the planet… Espressolab in Cape Town at number 11 and The Whippet in Johannesburg at number 89.

The rankings were compiled using a mix of public votes (30%) and expert input (70%), and after all the caffeine-fuelled data was poured over, Toby’s Estate in Sydney, Australia was crowned number one. But let’s be honest, our local favourites give them a serious run for their money.

Espressolab – Cape Town’s Brewed Brilliance

Ranked just outside the global top 10, Espressolab Microroasters is perched inside Cape Town’s Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock and is as much an experience as it is a coffee shop. With a sleek, minimalist, lab-like aesthetic, this spot draws in coffee lovers who are serious about their beans.

Here, it’s not just about the caffeine fix, it’s about the craft. Espressolab sources sustainable single-origin beans from Africa and South America, roasting in small batches to bring out every subtle note and nuance. The baristas are artists in their own right, offering not just a cup of coffee but a masterclass in flavour, balance, and origin. And now? The world has noticed.

The Whippet – Joburg’s Community-Driven Café

Coming in at number 89, The Whippet has long been a local treasure in the leafy suburb of Linden, Johannesburg. It’s the kind of place where regulars are known by name and the story behind the building, once the Old Linden Hotel, is just as rich as the coffee served inside.

Celebrating the area’s agricultural heritage, The Whippet serves its signature Linden Blend (a perfectly balanced mix of Costa Rican and Malawian beans), roasted locally to ensure each cup is as fresh and flavourful as possible. Pair it with their buttermilk chicken Benedict or a slice of old-school milk tart and you’ll quickly understand why it’s earned a spot on the global map.

But more than that, The Whippet is about people. It’s a hub for the community, a place that champions local produce, friendly faces and a good, strong cuppa.

This kind of recognition goes far beyond bragging rights (though let’s be honest, it’s still a vibe). It shines a spotlight on the skill, creativity and hustle of South African entrepreneurs and baristas who’ve mastered their craft and shared it with the world. It cements South Africa’s place on the global coffee map, drawing in curious travellers, uplifting local farmers and producers and fuelling a thriving café culture that’s uniquely ours.

So next time you find yourself in Cape Town or Joburg, skip the big-name chains. Head to the places where passion is poured into every cup… because here, coffee isn’t just a drink, it’s an experience. And we’re doing it brilliantly.

Sources: Good Things with Brent Lindeque 

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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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Sun, sand and a whole lot of penguin charm… Boulders Beach is flying the South African flag high as one of the world’s top beaches for 2025!

Global (29 April 2025) – We’ve always known South Africa has some of the most breathtaking beaches on the planet but now, it’s official!

The 2025 World’s 50 Best Beaches list has just been released and Boulders Beach has claimed a top spot, ranking 12th in the world (moving up from 2023’s 40th spot). Yes, the penguins, the warm waters, the golden sand… the whole experience has captured the hearts of international travellers once again.

Here’s what The World’s 50 Best Beaches had to say about our very own slice of paradise:

“Famous for its resident colony of African penguins, Boulders Beach near Cape Town offers a unique opportunity to observe these charming birds up close in their stunning natural habitat. The beach is set against a backdrop of large granite boulders that create sheltered coves with unusually warm waters, ideal for swimming. This setting makes it distinct from other Atlantic Ocean beaches in the area, which are typically cooler. The presence of the penguins, combined with the safe, warm swimming spots, draws both tourists and locals who are looking for a unique beach experience that combines wildlife observation with leisure activities.”

But those who have visited know that Boulders isn’t just a beach; it’s an experience you’ll never forget. Warm waters, granite coves and penguins waddling past while you sunbathe? It’s unique and pure South African magic.

And we are so proud to have made the list.

The World’s 50 Best Beaches list for 2025 is a real celebration of jaw-dropping coastlines across the globe and trust us, it’s a dreamy lineup! Here’s a glimpse at the top 10 that captured the hearts of travellers and experts alike:

1. Cala Goloritzé – Italy

2. Entalula Beach – Philippines

3. Bang Bao Beach – Thailand

4. Fteri Beach – Greece

5. PK 90 Beach – French Polynesia

6. Canto De La Playa – Dominican Republic

7. Anse Source D’Argent – Seychelles

8. Nosy Iranja – Madagascar

9. Ofu Beach – American Samoa

10. Grace Bay – Turks & Caicos

It’s not just South Africa that’s shining, Southern Africa has a serious reason to celebrate. Several of our neighbours made it into the top 50 (listed above were Seychells and Madagascar but there were more):

30 – Anse Georgette, Seychelles

33 – Le Morne Beach, Mauritius

43 – Paje Beach, Zanzibar

So loads to celebrate and be proud of but how exactly were The World’s 50 Best Beaches chosen?

Well, The World’s 50 Best Beaches isn’t just a popularity contest. The team behind it, made up of seasoned travellers, beach lovers and professional wanderers, gather votes from thousands of travel experts across the globe every year. And they’re not just looking for the prettiest view. They focus on beaches that are unique, wild, untouched, teeming with wildlife and that soothe your soul with nothing but the sound of waves.

Every beach that makes the final list has to receive a vote, be verified and tick some seriously special boxes. It’s not just about hype… it’s about heart. And this year, Boulders Beach has flown the South African flag high with pride.

Sources: The World’s Best Beaches 

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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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At 93 years old, Ormond Ferraris is still shaping the sport he’s devoted his life to… and now, South Africa is honouring him with one of its highest accolades.

South Africa (09 April 2025) – On Saturday, 29 March 2025, during Champions Day at Turffontein Racecourse, legendary horse racing trainer Ormond Arthur Ferraris was inducted into the South African Hall of Fame.

The moment marked a proud celebration of a remarkable life, with Race 5 on the day named in his honour – a tribute to a man who has done more for horse racing than most will ever know.

Born on 31 March 1932 in the small town of Wolwehoek, Mr Ferraris has spent over six decades leaving his mark on the track. His journey began humbly, as a young track rider under the guidance of George Weale, and from there, he built a legendary career that saw him train around 2,600 winners between 1954 and 2019.

Among his standout achievements:

• 10 Oaks victories, including champions like St Just, Fast Break, and Cherry On The Top
• 8 Derby wins, with names like Distinctly and The Monk leading the charge
• A Triple Tiara triumph with Cherry On The Top
• Two National Trainer Championships in 1991/92 and 1993/94
• 1994 Summer Cup winner, Sizzling Sun
• And the unforgettable 1975 Durban July win with Distinctly

But the wins are only part of the story.

Mr Ferraris is revered not just for what he accomplished, but for the lives he influenced. Over the years, he has mentored some of the biggest names in the sport… his son David Ferraris, Mike de Kock, Michael Clements, the Marwing brothers, and Sharon Kotzen, to name just a few. That mentorship continues to ripple through the industry.

Even now, he remains actively involved as a training consultant and takes great pride in the achievements of his grandson, Luke Ferraris, who is making a name for himself as a top jockey in Hong Kong. It’s a multi-generational legacy, still in motion.

Beyond racing, Mr Ferraris showed the same dedication to caring for others. In the 1970s, he helped start the Trainers Benevolent Fund, which continues to support trainers in need, proof that his impact has always gone beyond the finish line.

“It’s a great honour for us to welcome Mr Ferraris into the Hall of Fame,” said Johnny Burger, Chairman of the South African Hall of Fame. “His love for the sport, his dedication, and the way he’s helped so many others make him a true South African legend.”

This honour is more than a celebration of racing excellence, it’s a recognition of a life lived with purpose, generosity and an unwavering commitment to the sport and the people who make it what it is.

Congratulations, Mr Ferraris. Your legacy is galloping strong.

Sources: Supplied 

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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 De Wet Swanepoel of the University of Pretoria has been honoured with the International Award for Hearing, recognising his groundbreaking work in mobile hearing care that is making hearing health accessible to millions, no matter where they are.

Pretoria, South Africa (01 March 2025) – Access to healthcare remains a challenge for many, but one South African researcher is breaking barriers and making hearing care available to those who need it most. Professor De Wet Swanepoel, from the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, has been honoured with the prestigious International Award for Hearing from the American Academy of Audiology.

This award recognises Prof Swanepoel’s pioneering work in mobile hearing care, a mission that has seen him co-found the hearX Group, a digital health company dedicated to expanding access to hearing healthcare both locally and globally. His research isn’t just about numbers or academic papers – it’s about real-world impact, ensuring that millions of people can connect with the world through sound.

“I’m truly honoured to receive this award,” he says. “More than personal recognition, it highlights the importance of making hearing care accessible to those who need it most.”

For Prof Swanepoel, hearing loss is a silent epidemic. He believes that waiting for people to seek help is no longer an option. Instead, hearing care must be taken to them, whether they’re in a remote village, a busy workplace, or their own home.

“We need to stop thinking of hearing care as something that only happens in a clinic,” he explains. “It should happen wherever people need it.”

His work with teleaudiology – a field that leverages digital technology to provide remote hearing solutions – is revolutionising access to care, especially in regions like Africa, where only 2% of people who need hearing aids actually receive them. By harnessing mobile apps, artificial intelligence, and digital tools, Prof Swanepoel is changing the narrative around hearing health, making it more accessible and affordable.

Prof Swanepoel’s impact extends far beyond South Africa. His collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) has helped scale mobile hearing solutions globally. One of the most groundbreaking achievements is the hearZA National Hearing Screening app, developed by UP and hearX. This innovation was later adapted into hearWHO, the first-ever global hearing screening app, which has already screened half a billion people worldwide.

“What started as a South African innovation has now screened half a billion people worldwide for hearing loss,” he says proudly.

Through this partnership, minimally trained healthcare workers can now conduct hearing screenings under the remote supervision of audiologists, ensuring that even the most underserved communities can receive life-changing hearing support.

With an estimated 700 million people expected to require hearing services by 2050, the need for borderless, digital-first solutions has never been greater. Prof Swanepoel is at the forefront of this transformation, ensuring that innovation is not just a concept but a lifeline for those in need.

“Hearing connects us,” he reflects.

“It is how we share stories, emotions and relationships. Making sure no one loses that connection is what drives my work.”

And thanks to his dedication, millions more will continue to hear, connect, and be part of the world in ways they never thought possible.

Sources: Professor De Wet Swanepoel of the University of Pretoria 

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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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South Africa’s culinary elite got the chance to bask in well-earned glory recently at the 2025 Luxe Restaurant Awards! From New Restaurant of the Year to the Best Burger Joint, the winners are:

Johannesburg, South Africa (20 February 2025) – The 2025 Luxe Restaurant Awards unfolded in spectacular, sizzling fashion in Johannesburg recently as the country’s culinary elite united to bask in well-earned foodie glory.

Well-respected for its prestige, the annual awards once again brought together the most influential chefs, restaurateurs, and culinary tastemakers from around the country for an evening where celebration and inspiration were served.

Shashi Naidoo alongside award-winning cookbook author and culinary personality Mogau Seshoene (The Lazy Makoti) guided guests through the evening of glamour and gastronomy, as South Africa’s most exceptional restaurants and chefs were honoured across the board.

Among the many category winners (ranging from Restaurant of the Year to Culinary Innovation), the evening also saw two Michelin-starred chefs honoured for their contributions to the industry!

And the Winners Are:

Category Winners

• Restaurant of the Year – Salon
• Chef of the Year – Candice Philip
• New Restaurant of the Year – Coy
• Pioneer Award – Liam Tomlin
• Culinary Innovation Award – Carla Schulze
• Culinary Media Personality of the Year – Zola Nene
• Culinary Rising Star Award – Amori Burger
• Hidden Gem Award – Good to Gather
• Pastry Chef of the Year – Keshia Louw
• Service Excellence Award – Mertia
• Style Award – Marble Cape Town
• Sustainability Award – Reverie Social Table
• Bar of the Year – Sin + Tax
• Bartender of the Year – JJ Hendricks (Fable Bar)
• Mixology Rising Star Award – Caitlin Crockart
• Bistro of the Year – Mill St Bistro
• Burger Joint of the Year – Brash
• Caterer of the Year – Vicky Crease Catering + Events
• Coffee Shop of the Year – La Cotte Mill House
• Cafe of the Year – Ground Art Caffe
• Casual Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year – Elgr
• Contemporary Restaurant of the Year – Upper Union
• Family Restaurant of the Year – Culinary Table
• Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year – Cyra
• Grillhouse of the Year – Tyler’s
• Hotel Restaurant of the Year – Proud Mary
• International Restaurant of the Year – Club Como
• Lifestyle Restaurant of the Year – Gemelli
• Patisserie of the Year – La Tarte
• Pop-Up Restaurant of the Year – Edge at Vue Short Market
• Restaurant Group of the Year – Tashas
• Rooftop Restaurant of the Year – The 11th Floor
• Street Food Restaurant of the Year – Yatai Ramenbar
• Tapas Restaurant of the Year – De Eetkamer

Luxe Starred Restaurant:

One-Star Restaurants

• Belly of the Beast
• Beyond by Peter Tempelhoff
• Epice
• Fermier
• Hōseki
• Le Coin Français
• Les Créatifs
• Post & Pepper
• The Jordan Restaurant with Marthinus Ferreira

Two-Star Restaurants

• Arkeste by Richard Carstens
• Coy Restaurant
• Cyra by Candice Philip
• JAN Franschhoek
• Mertia
• Rust en Vrede Restaurant
• The Living Room at Summerhill Estate
• The Pot Luck Club (JHB & CPT)
• Wolfgat

Three-Star Restaurants

• Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia
• Dusk Restaurant
• FYN Restaurant
• La Colombe
• La Petite Colombe
• Pier
• Restaurant Klein JAN
• Salsify at The Roundhouse
• Salon

Sources: Supplied 

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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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South Africa is celebrating a moment of pure pride as Henk Lategan and Brett Cummings from Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa stormed to a historic second-place finish at the 2025 Dakar Rally, conquering the world’s toughest race and proving that South African talent shines on the global stage.

Saudi Arabia (19 January 2025) – South Africa is brimming with pride as Henk Lategan and his co-driver Brett Cummings from Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa made history, clinching second place in the gruelling 2025 Dakar Rally.

This monumental achievement is more than just a win – it’s a story of perseverance, precision, and pure determination.

The duo delivered an outstanding performance, only bested by Saudi Arabia’s own Yazeed Al-Rajhi, who claimed first place in a privately entered Overdrive Toyota Hilux. Al-Rajhi had the crowd on his feet but Lategan and Cummings ensured South Africa’s flag flew high on the podium. Securing a spot on the Dakar podium is no ordinary feat. It represents years of preparation, a deep understanding of the vehicle, an incredible team and a bond between driver and co-driver that can only be described as extraordinary.

Adding to the celebration, 6 of the top 10 cars, including that of the winner, were built right here in South Africa. The 4 Toyotas, crafted by SVR (formerly Hallspeed), and the two Century Racing vehicles showcased the unmatched engineering talent of South Africa’s motorsport industry.

The outpouring of support from fans has been heartwarming, with social media buzzing with messages of admiration.

“Congratulations! Amazing achievement and best teamwork I’ve seen in many years. Well done to every single person involved.”

“Well done to #TGRSA. Henk and Brett, you made us proud. We salute you. Congratulations on your second place, you’ve worked hard for it. Next year is yours for the taking.”

Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa also joined in the celebrations, sharing on their official social media: “A massive congratulations to the entire #TGRSA team and to Henk Lategan and Brett Cummings for making the podium at Dakar 2025! An incredible effort from everyone involved—what an unforgettable rally!”

The Dakar Rally, often referred to as the “world’s toughest race,” spans thousands of kilometres across some of the most unforgiving terrain on the planet. This year’s edition saw competitors battling sand dunes, rocky landscapes, and extreme weather conditions in the Middle East. With each stage testing not only speed but strategy and stamina, it’s a race where survival alone is an achievement.

For Lategan and Cummings, navigating these challenges with finesse speaks volumes about their capabilities. Their Toyota Hilux endured everything the desert threw at it, proving the vehicle’s reliability and their unshakeable focus.

This achievement is more than a victory – it’s a bold statement of South Africa’s motorsport excellence, inspiring a nation to dream bigger, strive harder, and face challenges with unrelenting courage.

Well done team! South Africa salutes you!

Sources: Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa 

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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 South Africa Secures Historic Podium at Dakar 2025! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Only two South Africans have been recognised in King Charles III’s New Year Honours List, with David Green and Professor Robert Wilkinson receiving the “Order of the British Empire” for their extraordinary contributions to tourism, culture, and global health, showcasing South Africa’s impact on the world stage.

Western Cape, South Africa (02 January 2025) – In a moment of pride for South Africa, David Green and Professor Robert Wilkinson have been named in King Charles III’s New Year Honours List, each receiving the prestigious Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

These awards recognise their exceptional contributions in their respective fields, shining a global spotlight on South Africa’s talent and impact.

David Green, CEO of Cape Town’s iconic V&A Waterfront and Chairman of the Zeitz MOCAA Museum, has been celebrated for his role in fostering stronger ties between South Africa and the United Kingdom.

Under his visionary leadership, the V&A Waterfront has become one of Africa’s most visited destinations, blending heritage, culture, and innovation to attract millions of visitors each year. The Zeitz MOCAA Museum, meanwhile, has gained worldwide acclaim as a premier institution for African contemporary art.

Green expressed his gratitude for the honour: “I am deeply humbled to receive this recognition; it reflects the incredible work of the entire V&A Waterfront and Zeitz MOCAA teams. Tourism is a vital bridge between nations, and I am proud to contribute to the strong relationship between South Africa and the UK. Cape Town is a remarkable city, and I am honoured to play a part in its ongoing success as a premier global destination.”

Professor Robert Wilkinson, a leading figure in infectious disease research, was also recognised for his outstanding contributions to global health. Based at the Wellcome Trust Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Africa and the Francis Crick Institute in London, Wilkinson has dedicated his career to advancing our understanding of diseases like tuberculosis and HIV. His work has not only improved health outcomes in South Africa but has also driven global collaboration in medical research.

Wilkinson’s groundbreaking research continues to tackle some of the world’s most pressing health challenges, cementing South Africa’s position as a leader in scientific innovation and public health. His work bridges the gap between the UK and South Africa’s scientific communities, fostering partnerships that benefit vulnerable populations worldwide.

The inclusion of Green and Wilkinson in the King’s New Year Honours List is a proud moment for South Africa, celebrating excellence in tourism, culture, and global health. Their achievements demonstrate the transformative power of leadership, innovation, and collaboration, reminding us of South Africa’s ability to shape a better world.

Sources: V&A Waterfront Press Release | Order of the British Empire 

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 “Order of the British Empire” Awarded to 2 South Africans! appeared first on Good Things Guy.