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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

His advice to others is wise beyond his years:

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

Sources: Christina Mallion 

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Some of the best ideas come from children, which is why the Big Biodiversity Challenge is betting on the bold ideas of Grade 6 to 9 learners to answer one of the world’s most pressing eco-social questions.

South Africa (22 May 2025) — The Big Biodiversity Challenge is back for 2025; calling on Grade 6 to 9 learners to get creative about answering an important question: ‘How do we live in harmony with nature while still meeting the needs of people and communities?’

Aptly, this year’s theme is Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development. Learners are invited to explore how everyday, real-world environmental issues (food, water, waste, energy and urban living) can be tackled in a way that benefits both people and the planet.

Organised by the Western Cape Environmental Education Friends (WCEFF) with help from CapeNature, SANBI, SANParks, Nature Connect, Working on Fire, the Two Oceans Aquarium and governmental departments, the challenge aims to nurture young problem solvers and get them thinking from a solutions-based perspective.

How it Works

• Learners can choose to go at the task lone wolf or as part of a pack.
• Participants are then encouraged to submit projects in any of the following formats: essays, presentations, eco apps or tech concepts (mock-ups, feature lists or demo videos), social action projects (a recycling drive, school garden or clean-up campaign that should be documented in photos, reports or a video) and creative works (poetry, visual art or music with an explanation as to how the art links back to the theme).
• The competition’s submissions are open until 31 July
• Entries can be made here.

Past Inspiration

Last year, learners impressed judges with innovative and heartfelt entries. Grade 6 learners Benjamin Banda and Polite Masango from Orangekloof Primary used a powerful combination of visual art, poetry, and live performance to raise awareness about water pollution and the human behaviours driving it.

Other learners like Benjamin Draper from Pinelands North Primary earned second place for his ecosystem restoration concept for the Elsies River canal that focused on rewilding the urban water way. Yameen Jeebhay of Westerford High developed an idea for a Conservationist Badge App to reward users for taking part in environmental activities!

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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“My girlfriend says I love this bicycle more than her.”

Soweto, South Africa (18 May 2025) — The streets of Soweto came alive at the weekend as scores of young people showed off their customised BMX bicycles.

This cycling subculture was born out of the more commonly known car “stance” culture, where vehicle owners spend a lot of time and money customising their cars with specialised paint jobs, flashy wheels and loud sound systems.

Many young people in townships like Soweto may not have the resources to buy and customise their own cars. Instead, they focus their passion and creativity on their trusty two-wheeled bicycles.

Participants in the BMX subculture, most of whom are teenagers, are often seen cruising around Soweto on their unique and flashy bikes, the sound of the latest amapiano songs booming from the speakers attached to the rear of their bicycles.

Many have completely stripped their original frame of the bicycles to rebuild it to suit their particular style. We spoke to Lungelo Hlongwane and his group of friends, who were on their way to a bicycle meetup in Soweto’s Thokoza Park.

Hlongwane parks his bike alongside the row of customised bikes as they prepare for the judges to inspect them for a prize. His bike, bright pink with shiny rims and chrome handlebars, is given a final wipe-down before the inspection.

“I have maybe spent thousands of rands on my bicycle. I saved up my spending money and even worked odd jobs to pay for all this. My girlfriend says I love this bicycle more than her,” says Hlongwane with a smile.

Bicycle meetups often draw crowds with hundreds of people from different townships who come to compete to see who has the best-looking bicycle. Often, prizes are on offer for winners.

Hloni Ramaila, a BMX rider who organised a recent meetup in Diepkloof, said that it was important for youth to have a healthy creative outlet.

“Bicycles bring so much joy to so many people. To see this bicycle culture thriving in the township shows the high level of creativity of youth,” said Ramaila.

Some of the cyclists participate in the “spinning” competitions, a culture also born from the growing popularity of car spinning. Cyclists cover their rubber tyres with bits of plastic from coke bottles which allows their bike wheels to spin and drift across the road surface.

Those with the best technique, creativity and innovation grab the top prize and bragging rights for the week.

Njabulo Shongwe regularly competes in bicycle spinning competitions. His talent for drifting his bicycle has already secured him paid gigs in the entertainment and advertising industry.

Shongwe and his friends formed the Soweto Street Fighters bicycle crew, with members competing in the stance, spinning and racing competitions at bicycle meetups.

“Some of the guys are good at spinning and some are creative in making beautiful bicycles. We all come together as friends and try to keep growing the culture,” said Shongwe.

Siyabonga Mabuso accompanied his grandson to a recent bicycle meetup in Soweto. He was impressed by the creativity and originality of the bicycle creations on display.

“We have many challenges here with youngsters who abuse drugs and get involved in criminality. So, to see them come together in such a positive way and having such fun makes me very happy,” said Mabuso.

Sources: GroundUp

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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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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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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 Junior Aquatics Team have been crowned the champions of the African continent thanks to their stellar medal haul at the 16th Africa Junior Swimming Championships!

Cairo, Egypt (09 May 2025) — Young and talented South African swimmers deserve all the rounds of applause; they are officially the champions of the African continent!

Thanks to a stellar series of performances at the recent 16th Africa Junior Swimming Championships, Team South Africa’s Juniors walked away with not only an impressive medal haul but also a finish at the tip-top of the medal table. The championships, held in Cairo from 30 April to 4 May, saw talent from all over Africa compete for the coveted spot.

According to Africa Aquatics, the SA Junior team earned an incredible 52 medals overall!  Exceptionally, 25 of these medals were gold, while 17 were silver and 10 were bronze.

Egypt scooped the second overall spot at the Africa Junior Swimming Championships, ultimately claiming a total of 43 medals.

“South Africa showed incredible strength, skill and unity in the pool. Your hard work and dedication paid off—you’ve made your nation and the entire continent proud!” Africa Aquatics shared proudly. 

Meanwhile, in more news from swimming superstars that made up proud, South African Paralympic swimmer Kat Swanepoel has dedicated the month of May to beating MS by swimming for a cause that isn’t just close to her heart but has profoundly impacted every aspect of her life.

Kat has signed up to swim 50km to raise both awareness and much-needed funds for both research and support of people living with MS. Read more, here. 

Sources: Africa Aquatics 

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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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Surfski superstar Kira Bester dominated Atlantic, Indian and Mediterranean waters with three wins in just 7 days!

Global (08 May 2025) — South African surfski superstar Kira Bester has opened the 2025 season like a champion.

Claiming three wins across three oceans in just seven days; the reigning 2024 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Champion showcased a flair of dominance few could match.

The campaign began on home soil with a powerful performance at the South African Surfski Championships in which Kira outpaced the field on the 21k course from Simon’s Town to Fish Hoek.

“That win meant a lot,” reflected Kira. “It’s a “It’s a tough course that demands physical and tactical strength. I had to work smart, and draw on the strength of the paddlers around me. To take the title was a huge sense of relief and pride.”

Only a few days later, it was time for her next victory. Teaming up with powerhouse Melanie van Niekerk, the two tackled the Freedom Paddle—South Africa’s premier doubles ocean race around Robben Island.

“Mel was phenomenal in the back,” Bester said. “Her power and experience were unmatched, and I learned so much from her. I just focused on steering clean lines and keeping us efficient —it was a real team effort.”

The final leg of her whirlwind week was in Villajoyosa, Spain, where she secured the overall women’s title at the ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Cup!

“This event has been on my bucket list for a while, so to win it was massive. The competition was world-class, and to come out on top on an international stage gives me huge confidence going forward,” she said.

While her results speak volumes, the campaign came with its challenges.

“Mentally, staying sharp through back-to-back races took a lot,” Bester admitted. “There were moments of doubt and exhaustion, but I leaned on my team and kept focused on one race at a time.”

Key to her success, Bester credits her training environment, singling out Pete Cole of the Orka squad for surfski preparation, and Mitch for gym-based strength and conditioning.

“The balance they bring to my routine — on the water and in the gym — has been a winning formula. I’m lucky to have them both in my corner.”

For younger paddlers watching her success, Bester encourages perseverance and confidence, sharing:

“Don’t be afraid to get uncomfortable — that’s where the growth happens. When I started, I was one of the few girls on the water and often felt out of place. But that became my motivation. Find your passion, show up every day, and celebrate the small wins.”

Looking ahead, Bester’s sights are now set on the 2025 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships, to be held in Durban, South Africa.

“It’s a huge opportunity to race against the world’s best on home soil,” she says.

“Durban’s ocean is unpredictable and exciting — I’m preparing hard and giving it everything I’ll be proud no matter the result, but yes, I’m absolutely racing to win.”

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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In fantastic news from the chess world, South Africa’s own Caleb Levitan has become an International Master (IM) of chess at only 14 years old!

Johannesburg, South Africa (08 May 2025) — South Africa’s latest International Master (IM) of chess has officially been announced as fourteen-year-old Caleb Levitan.

It’s a monumental achievement for any chess player, let alone one who is still in high school. In fact, there are only a handful of International Masters of chess in South Africa. As such, Caleb has accomplished what most spend lifetimes striving toward!

Per Chess South Africa, Caleb is “the youngest ever to do so by achieving 3 IM norms and crossing the elite FIDE Elo rating of 2400.”

The young firecracker was also recently recognised as South Africa’s Top Active Chess Player by Rating.

“Caleb’s achievement is really meaningful,” says Emil Sutovsky, FIDE CEO. “It speaks volumes about his potential—which was noticeable already a few years back. Caleb participated in several camps and training sessions—as well as many championships organised by FIDE, and we are looking forward to providing more opportunities, including educational programs, aimed at the world’s most talented young players. South Africa is on its way to have a new Grandmaster after a long hiatus—and FIDE is happy and proud about that.”

All About Becoming an IM of Chess

The International Master title is awarded by FIDE, the global chess federation. It is awarded to chess players who demonstrate sustained excellence at a high level and are just one step below the Grandmaster title, AKA the black belt of the chess world.

To earn an IM title, a player needs to have achieved three ‘IM norms’; tournament performances that meet strict international standards and reach a FIDE rating of 2400 or higher at any point. This way, FIDE can ensure that the title reflects not only peak achievement but also consistent competitive strength.

More About Caleb Levitan

Caleb’s chess development, though seemingly rapid, is actually the result of years of disciplined play in both local and international arenas. His first big break came about in 2018 when he was just 8 years old. Then, he and his twin brother Judah shared first place at the African Youth Chess Championship in Kenya! Judah is currently a Candidate Master, who is currently ranked among the top 10 chess players in South Africa. Together, the twins are making South Africa proud with each move!

Caleb continued to ascend throughout different competitions, and in 2024 became the youngest South African to represent the rainbow nation at the Chess Olympiad that year.

Of his International Master title, Caleb shares:

“There have been a lot of sacrifices to get to this level, and I’m relieved that all the hard work paid off…I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my family, friends, and my amazing coaches. Hopefully there’s more to come—my dream is to become a Grandmaster.”

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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