Talented young ballerinas known as the ‘Baby Swans’ have earned an opportunity to perform with the pros in The Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe in Switzerland.

Johannesburg, South Africa (27 May 2025) — A group of little ballerinas affectionately known as the ‘Baby Swans’ from the Mzansi Ballet Vocational School are getting excited for a big opportunity as they prepare to perform in Switzerland alongside the pros.

The Mzansi Ballet Senior Company is set to put on a performance of The Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe in Lugano, Switzerland from 30 June to 6 July. This performance will be a highlight in the Rhythm of Two Souths Music and Dance Festival.

The Baby Swans (dancers aged between 8 and 13) have the chance to perform with the senior dancers in what could be an incredible opportunity for their budding dancing careers; both for the exposure and the experience.

To raise the necessary funds for the trip across the pond, the ‘Baby Swans’ squad and their support systems are betting on their dreams by hosting a fundraiser in the form of an evening of music and dance. The evening will be hosted at the Pieter Toerien Theatre, Monte Casino for all Joburgers craving a cultural evening.

Dubbed ’Fusion of Favourites’, the event will feature the world premiere of renowned choreographer Vincent Mantsoe’s ‘Song of Khudugo/Exodus’ alongside performances from the Mzansi Ballet dancers. Food and drinks are included in the ticket!

The proceeds are entirely dedicated to the Baby Swans getting to Switzerland, and those interested in attending can email mzansiballet@gmail.com.

Says proud Baby Swans parent, Charlene Izzet:

“These girls dedicate much of their time and energy to perfecting their craft and performances, and any support at the fundraising event would be incredibly appreciated. It’s a fantastic chance to witness their passion and dedication up close.”

Sources: Email Submission 

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South African actor Davin Beiersdorf has followed his dreams from Langebaan all the way to attending the Cannes Film Festival!

Global (26 May 2025) — Actor and model Davin Beiersdorf has come a long way from the coastal town of Langebaan in the Western Cape thanks to a commitment to following his dreams in the arts. Recently, Davin attended the Cannes Film Festival; any actor’s dream red carpet experience notorious for being the place to rub shoulders with industry legends.

Davin had attended last year’s edition too, however this time he was more prepared.

“This year was better than last year as I knew what to expect,” the young actor shared. “And, I arrived earlier during the festival.”

Davin arrived on the opening night of the ‘Mission Impossible’ premiere on his birthday (talk about a birthday to remember!). He was also personally invited to the debut of ‘Storm Rider’!

For anyone rising up in the industry, opportunities to attend iconic events like Cannes are invaluable. But for Davin, it wasn’t just about standing among giants. It was also about proudly sharing his South African heritage.

“I always have a sense of pride to say I’m from South Africa when asked where I come from,” he says. “Especially now that South Africa has some film studio development in the works that all creatives are looking forward to.”

Davin landed his first lead role in ‘I Hate Pirates’ in 2024 following his participation in theatre production school. Needless to say, Davin is certainly a budding actor to watch as South Africa’s talent continues to impress the world.

Sources: Supplied 

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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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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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In thrilling news from the tennis court, two South African players are gearing up to qualify for the Roland Garros Junior Championships in Paris, one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world

Paris, France (15 May 2025) — Young South African tennis players, Jahnie van Zyl and Connor Doig are gearing up for a massive moment in the world of tennis, the Qualifying Draw of the Roland Garros Junior Championships 2025!

The Roland Garros Juniors is a hugely prestigious tournament in the world of tennis and features the top young players from around the world; identifying the tennis-royalty of tomorrow.

While neither player is fully through the door to compete just yet, they’re at the cusp of the opportunity, which is well worth celebrating in our books!

Per Tennis South Africa, Jahnie and Connor have both made the Qualifying Draw round (AKA, the stage before the Main Draw). Here, they will compete to secure spots in the main tournament.

This stepping stone to the big leagues marks a major opportunity for both young players to sharpen their skills, gain international experience at a top-tier level, and collect ranking points (and bragging rights!)

The Roland Garros Junior Championships 2025 will kickoff in Paris this month; running from 29 May to 7 June.

Meanwhile, in news from other young and talented South African sports stars that had us celebrating, South Africa’s Junior Aquatics Team were recently crowned the champions of the African continent thanks to their stellar medal haul at the 16th Africa Junior Swimming Championships! Read all about it, here.

Sources: Tennis 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.

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Artists who love animals and want to see every shelter floof find its forever home, the Tshwane SPCA is looking for you! They’re looking for people willing to transform a wall in Waltloo into a backdrop of hope.

Tshwane, South Africa (06 May 2025) — There are few things quite as heartwarming as seeing a shelter dog and their new family posing for their first picture together. It’s the beginning of a new adventure, the end of months (and, in some cases, years) of waiting, and the beacon of hope that reminds us all how necessary adoptions are. And, since it’s such an important time for both the animal and their new human, it only makes sense that they should have a powerhouse backdrop. That’s why the Tshwane SPCA is searching for artists who love animals to create the ultimate “I’m going home” backdrop.

“This artwork will become the official backdrop for adoption photos—capturing the joyful moment our furry friends find their forever homes,” shares the Tshwane SPCA, adding further that the artist call is for the SPCA Waltloo branch.

Who Can Help?

Whether you’re a muralist who loves turning bare walls into something people (and in this case, pooches) will remember or love any excuse to tango with a painting project, the SPCA encourages you to reach out.

The call also extends to groups (businesses, communities, or volunteers), because everything’s better when we all work together.

You can get in touch with the team at pr@spcapta.org.za, and don’t forget to tag Good Things Guy in the photos once you’ve completed the work!

Sources: Tshwane SPCA 

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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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10 Young and emerging artists were given the opportunity to showcase their talent at Comic Con in Cape Town!

Cape Town, South Africa (05 May 2025) — The Emerging Artists Programme in Cape Town recently helped make several young artists’ dreams of getting to exhibit their work possible thanks to an opportunity to showcase at the recent Comic Con Cape Town 2025.

The City of Cape Town’s Community, Arts and Culture Development Department’s Emerging Artists Programme is a bridge into the art world for many under-resourced artists in the Mother City. It helps creatives sharpen their skills, gain exposure and vitally, learn how to make earn an income from their passion.

In the past, the programme has seen young artists showcase as part of gallery exhibitions and pop-up events.

However, in a different niche of art, one to do with page-turners, 10 young artists from communities across Cape Town were selected to partake in the ramp up for Comic Con before getting to debut their work at the event.

Being selected meant a series of workshops that would prepare them for their big exhibition at one of the most popular events of the year. This included fourteen days of training, four days of production and seven days of post-production resulted in exciting work unique to each creative and their individual styles.

The workshops helped the 10 artists create original work inspired by pop culture; weaving in notes of inspiration from their own history and communities.

Keep an eye out for the artists who were selected! They are:

• Clyde Shannon Gelderbloem – Multi-talented creative and entrepreneur

• Sihle Kakana – Digital abstract artist

• Athenkosi “Unami” Maqubela – Interdisciplinary artist

• Conway October – Multidisciplinary artist

• Kristin – Ink illustrator and graphic designer

• Phakamani Thembela – Shoe maker and designer

• Nsama Wisdom Chishimba – Character design and illustration

• Prismond Mokakola – Visual artist

• Raeez Hoosain – Visual artist and multi-media designer

• Xolisa Tamarana – Graphic designer and illustrator

Sources: Supplied 

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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.

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A female team of tug of war champs from Melkbosstrand High School have the chance to represent South Africa at the World Championships in England!

Melkbosstrand, South Africa (21 April 2025) — A South African team of tug of war champs from Melkbosstrand High School are pulling at the chance to represent their country at the upcoming World Championships in Nottingham, England!

It’s a massive moment for the Melkies girls and a first for their school, which is beaming with pride at the girls’ achievement.

The 480kg girls team have worked hard to earn an opportunity like this, including winning gold at the SA Junior Championships in Mossel Bay.

The tug of war champs team to congratulate consists of:

• Mia Crous,
• Carli De Ridder,
• Lize Erasmus,
• Samantha Pieterse,
• Tiana Strydom,
• Anja van Jaarsveld,
• Jordan van Wyk,
• Kiera Kachelhoffer,
• Caitlyn Cooper
• and Erin Visagie.

Hosted by the University of Nottingham, the 2025 World Outdoor Tug of War Championships will take place from 4-7 September. However, the girls need a boost from their community and fellow South Africans to get their chance to compete against the world’s finest.

As such, a BackaBuddy campaign is up and running for them with hopes that those who want to see South Africa shine on yet another international stage (or arena) will support their dream.

The funds raised will support their passport and visa costs, international flights, accommodation, official uniforms and other fees necessary for participation.

And, in case you didn’t know, South Africa boasts success in the world of tug of war. Last year, a local tug-of-war team were crowned world champions for the third time in a row at the World Championships. An all-male squad from Hoër Landbouskool Oakdale, The 560KG team took home the crown!

You can support the Melkies girls through their campaign, here. 

Sources: Melkbosstrand High School; BackaBuddy

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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.

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If there’s a school, creche or child-focused organisation that you know could do with some joy, we’ve got good news! The Santa Shoebox Project has opened beneficiary applications:

South Africa (03 April 2025) — Every year, the Santa Shoebox Project helps spread joy to children who most need it. Through their special shoeboxes (filled with goodies both fun and essential), youngsters get to enjoy receiving helpful gifts over the festive season—a time when many of them would not be receiving anything. In good news, beneficiary applications are officially open; meaning you can put forward a school, creche, or child-focused organisation that you work with or think would love to receive Santa Shoeboxes!

“This is your chance to bring joy, hope, and essential gifts to the little ones in your care,” the Santa Shoebox Project team shared.

How to Get on the Santa Shoebox Team’s Radar:

The beneficiary applications will close on the last Thursday of April (24 April this year), so it’s best to get a head start.

Steps to Follow:

1. If you have an online profile with SSP (Santa Shoebox Project) login here with the same details. If you don’t have a profile yet, you can register here. (If you’ve forgotten your password, you can reset it under the forgot password section).
2. Once you’re in, complete the application form.
3. Once you’ve submitted, you won’t be able to make changes, so double check that all the information is correct BEFORE submitting. Additionally, incomplete applications won’t be considered.

Important Info:

Remember, this part is just an application, not a guarantee (the team receive way more applications than the amount of shoeboxes distributed).

All applications are assessed against different criteria (ie: it’s not a matter of first-come-first-serve). This criteria includes:

• Whether there are donors and sponsors to fulfil the application
• Whether the facility is rural
• Whether the facility receives any other support
• If the application is in line with the Project’s goals and objectives
• If the schools near your Sunday School or Community Centre receive shoeboxes for the children in their care
• If the facility is able to meet the custodian agreement. This is asking whether the facility is able to ensure that the Santa Shoeboxes will be safely received by the agreed recipient child on behalf of donors/sponsors.
• Make sure you’re contactable should a SSP rep ask you for more information.
• Those with successful applications will be contacted by mid-June via SMS.

Sources: Santa Shoebox Project

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Several young people are to be part of an exciting project that’ll nurture both their careers and conservation efforts in the Western Cape!

Western Cape, South Africa (25 March 2025) — A new project putting people and planet first can’t wait to nurture careers and conservation efforts across the Western Cape.

The Botanical Society of South Africa (BOT SOC) has announced that it’s all systems go for its ‘Protecting and Restoring South Africa’s Natural Heritage’ project—an exciting effort aimed at upskilling young people to preserve our natural treasures.

As the green economy continues to grow, so too should opportunities for young people to get into this field. With this in mind, BOT SOC along with the South African National Botanical Institute (SANBI) have teamed up to give young people a change to upskill themselves, build green careers and better the environment through the project’s various programmes.

“This initiative is an incredible opportunity to uplift local communities, promote skills development of youths, create green jobs, and expand conservation efforts in the Western Cape – laying the groundwork for future national expansion!” BOT SOC shared.

‘Restoring South Africa’s Natural Heritage’ will see twenty-four young people empowered through key eco-skills, including:

• Conservation
• Restoration
• Monitoring of threatened plant species and associated Important Plant Areas
• Horticultural and garden development skills (from plant identification to alien clearing)
• Establishing biodiversity gardens at schools and for communities to support endangered species of plants

The participants will be trained to hone these different skills and are set to be hosted at different gardens and management areas, including:

• SANBI’s Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
• SANBI’s Harold Porter National Botanical Garden
• SANBI’s Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden
• Nuwejaars Wetland Special Management Area
• The Garden Route Botanical Garden
• Vula Environmental Services

Sources: Botanical Society of South Africa 

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The RSC Rising Star Tennis sport development project has kicked off for 2025, which means another year of opportunities for young tennis talents from underserved communities and those who are disabled:

Mpumalanga, South Africa (11 March 2025) — Undiscovered tennis talents are about to get the opportunity to nurture new skills once again, thanks to the 6th edition of the RSC Rising Star Tennis project—a tennis sport development initiative.

A national project that’s grown impressively over several years, the RSC Rising Star Tennis programme gives school learners opportunities to fall in love with tennis—a sport that typically isn’t accessible for many underserved schools due to the costs attached.

The programme bridges the gap through sporting equipment and facilitating coaching clinics for learners and their coaches. Additionally, there is the big school tennis team competition that gives talents a chance to compete and showcase their skills, which is currently on the lookout for primary and special school tennis teams to partake.

Supporting learners with physical disabilities through tennis is also a big part of Rising Stars. At the launch event in Mpumalanga, Tennis South Africa’s wheelchair tennis manager Patrick Selepe undertook a wheelchair tennis demonstration in an effort to show schools that their learners in wheelchairs are also potential rising stars (the next Kgothatso Montjane or Donald Ramphadi could be at one of the schools!).

In Mpumalanga, the programme has proved to be beneficial, with school teams increasing from just 62 in 2023 to 119 in 2024. 797 schools across the country took part in 2024, and the goal for 2025 is to have 1000 teams at primary school and wheelchair tennis levels.

“By equipping these schools with the necessary tools, we aim to level the playing field and inspire even greater participation and excellence in the years to come, shared Tennis South Africa’s general manager Anthony Moruthane.

Sports development plays a huge role in giving young people opportunities while cultivating character. In South Africa, there are a myriad of charities focused on this sector—from dancing to swimming and all sorts of activities in between. Find them here. 

Sources: Tennis South Africa 

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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.

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