Editors Picks Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/category/editors-picks/ Thu, 01 May 2025 02:23:01 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-gtg_favicon-32x32.png Editors Picks Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/category/editors-picks/ 32 32 A Gentle Creature. A Brutal Trade. And Finally, a Reason to Hope https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/a-gentle-creature-a-brutal-trade-and-finally-a-reason-to-hope/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/a-gentle-creature-a-brutal-trade-and-finally-a-reason-to-hope/#respond Wed, 30 Apr 2025 05:25:49 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=149860

The quietest little creature on Earth just made the loudest noise… and the world is finally listening. This might change the future of pangolins!   Global (30 April 2025) –...

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The quietest little creature on Earth just made the loudest noise… and the world is finally listening. This might change the future of pangolins!

 

Global (30 April 2025) – The tides may finally be turning for Pangolins, often referred to as one of the most exploited creatures on Earth.

In a move that’s sending waves through conservation communities, China has announced that it will remove Guilingji, a traditional medicine containing pangolin ingredients, from its official 2025 Pharmacopoeia. The decision, confirmed in the revised edition released on the 25th of March, signals a significant step forward in wildlife protection and aligns with a growing global push to end the use of endangered animals in medicine.

And the news couldn’t have come at a more poetic time.

Just as China makes headlines for moving away from pangolin-based remedies, a breathtaking South African documentary is climbing the Netflix charts. Kulu: The Pangolin’s Journey (now in the global top 10) follows the tender and courageous path of a rescued pangolin being nursed back to health and returned to the wild. The film is beautiful. Heart-wrenching. Hopeful. And utterly unforgettable. It tells the story of these shy, scale-covered animals, often called the real-life dragons of the natural world, and the humans fighting for their survival.

And suddenly, the world is listening.

Pangolins are currently the most trafficked mammals on the planet. Poached for their scales (wrongly believed to have healing properties) and meat (considered a delicacy in some parts of Asia), they’ve suffered silently for decades. Despite international bans and increasing legal protections, demand for their body parts has continued, especially in traditional medicine markets. Guilingji, a widely known Chinese remedy that included red ginseng, deer antler, seahorse and pangolin, has long been controversial. First listed as a national secret prescription in 1957, it’s held symbolic value in the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine. But that status has now changed. While it doesn’t amount to a total ban, the removal from the Pharmacopoeia – China’s official reference for safe, standardised medical treatments – makes it harder to promote, prescribe, or legitimise its use.

According to experts, the shift reflects a growing awareness of ethical medicine and sustainable health practices. Animal-based products without proven medical value are slowly being phased out in favour of plant-based alternatives, particularly when those ingredients come at a high cost to biodiversity and species survival.

For pangolins, this move, paired with the momentum of the Netflix documentary,  could be a massive catalyst for change. Conservationists have been shouting into what may feel like a void for years, fighting for a species most people had never even heard of. But now, the world is paying attention. Millions of people are watching. And one of the most powerful nations on Earth is rewriting tradition with compassion at its core.

This is progress. Slow. Hard-won. But deeply meaningful.

Because when we choose empathy over exploitation, and understanding over outdated beliefs, we do more than protect a single species, we remind ourselves what kind of world we’re capable of creating.


Sources: Trade and Industry Development | World Animal Protection | Pangolin: Kulu’s journey 
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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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Good Things with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp: Connection Through Conversation https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/good-things-with-elana-afrika-bredenkamp-connection-through-conversation/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/good-things-with-elana-afrika-bredenkamp-connection-through-conversation/#respond Wed, 30 Apr 2025 03:55:10 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=149730

A voice that captures the heart of South Africa: Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp joins the Good Things conversation.   Johannesburg, South Africa (30 April 2025) – Every so often, you meet someone...

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A voice that captures the heart of South Africa: Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp joins the Good Things conversation.

 

Johannesburg, South Africa (30 April 2025) – Every so often, you meet someone whose energy feels like it could light up a thousand rooms. This week on Good Things with Brent Lindeque, I had the absolute joy of sitting down with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp… one of South Africa’s brightest voices, storytellers and changemakers.

Friends, she is such an amazing, beautiful dazzling light.

Elana is more than just a familiar voice on the radio or a celebrated face on our screens. She is the very spirit of vibrant South Africa, blending warmth, wisdom, wit and an unwavering commitment to uplift others in everything she does. From midmorning radio on Jacaranda FM, to her ground-breaking podcast work, to giving back through sport and education, Elana’s journey is layered with good things worth shouting about.

We spoke about her passion for podcasting… a medium where she truly shines. Her Parent & Baby Brunch has touched the lives of thousands of families, offering comfort, advice and laughter through the chaos of parenthood. Between hosting one of the country’s most-loved radio shows, managing ballet lessons, hockey practice and bedtime stories at home, Elana found the time to sit down for a very candid interview. And what makes Elana’s story such a good thing is not just the accolades or the achievements (although they are pretty phenomenal), it’s the way she carries it all… with authenticity, humility and a heart so deeply rooted in giving back. She reminded me that success means more when you lift others as you rise and that our voices, no matter how big or small, have the power to connect, heal and inspire.

If you haven’t yet, go give our full conversation a listen (or a watch below). It’s packed with laughter, life lessons and all the good things that make you believe in the beauty of this country.

🎧 Watch and listen to the episode on all our social platforms (like all of them)
📅 New episodes drop weekly.
🔥 Powered by Nando’s. Filmed at FLAME Studios.
💛 Stories that matter. Conversations that count.


Sources: Good Things with Brent Lindeque 
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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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Stellenbosch is Schooling Every Other Municipality… With Their Tweets https://www.goodthingsguy.com/fun/stellenbosch-is-schooling-every-other-municipality-with-their-tweets/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/fun/stellenbosch-is-schooling-every-other-municipality-with-their-tweets/#respond Fri, 18 Apr 2025 06:22:42 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=148845

Who knew a municipal Twitter account could be this entertaining… or this inspiring? Stellenbosch is raising the bar for local government, one cheeky post at a time.   Western Cape,...

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Who knew a municipal Twitter account could be this entertaining… or this inspiring? Stellenbosch is raising the bar for local government, one cheeky post at a time.

 

Western Cape, South Africa (18 April 2025) – We’ve been quietly watching this unfold for a while now… debating whether to write anything at all. But honestly? We can’t not talk about whoever is running the Stellenbosch Municipality’s X (Twitter) account. Because it’s absolutely brilliant.

Imagine a municipal account that highlights the good work being done in their community but also does it with enough sass and confidence to make social media managers across the country sit up and pay attention.

That’s what’s happening in Stellies.

And it’s the kind of wholesome, hilarious content we didn’t know we needed.

The pattern’s become hilariously predictable: a municipality shares a feel-good update, maybe about fixing roads, sprucing up a park, or installing fresh lights… and then Stellenbosch swoops in, resharing it with a cheeky clapback like, “Keep it up” with a hilarious photo, or, “Nice of you to catch up.” Sometimes, they don’t even need words, just a side-by-side photo that says it all. Some municipalities have reportedly even deleted their posts after getting playfully “one-upped” by Stellenbosch. But we hope they start seeing it for what it is: motivation. Healthy competition. Proof that local government can be efficient, responsive, and still have a sense of humour.

We love whoever is running this account because at the heart of it, this isn’t just about snarky tweets or clever comebacks, it’s about pride. Pride in the work being done. Pride in building a better place for residents. Pride in setting the bar a little higher.

And that’s something worth celebrating.

So whoever you are behind that account… we see you. Keep up the good work. Keep showing us that municipalities can serve, inspire and entertain… all at the same time.


Sources: Stellenbosch Municipality’s X (Twitter) accountt
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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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Hilarious Advert Has Us All Doing A Double Take, And Only SA Understands Why https://www.goodthingsguy.com/fun/hilarious-advert-only-sa-understands-why/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/fun/hilarious-advert-only-sa-understands-why/#respond Thu, 17 Apr 2025 07:00:04 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=148971

Sorry, what did I just hear? That was definitely a swear word in an advert! Funny new advert helping people with coughs sounds pretty similar to an Afrikaans swear word....

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Sorry, what did I just hear? That was definitely a swear word in an advert! Funny new advert helping people with coughs sounds pretty similar to an Afrikaans swear word.

 

South Africa (17 April 2025) – Ok, let’s be honest, they said it. They said the swear word in the latest Switch Energy Drink advert. Instead of “Fo’cough”… we all heard the alternative.

During the Springboks’ rise to success in the latest Rugby World Cup, the brand brought all the laughs with their endless adverts poking fun at failing utilities and bolstering some of our favourite Bokke.

If there is one thing South Africans do well, it’s laugh at the tough stuff, and with winter on the way, things are about to get tougher! Firstly, flu season is on the verge of hitting us all, and we know how tough that can be.

The advert almost made us spit out our warm morning drinks, but boy, did we giggle! It has already had a million views which is no surprise, because we are still laughing. Take a look at the funny advert below, but if you are at work, maybe not too loud.

And on the theme of work and winter and flu season… Here are five quick winter health tips for office workers.

Upgrade Your Desk Snacks

Swap sugary treats for immune-boosting snacks like citrus fruit, almonds, or yoghurt to keep energy steady and sniffles at bay.

Hydrate, Even If You’re Not Sweating

Office air can be dry — keep a bottle of water at your desk and sip throughout the day. Herbal teas are great too!

Keep a Warm Layer Handy

Offices can turn icy in winter. Keep a warm jersey, scarf, or blanket nearby to avoid the chill (and the colds that come with it).

Stretch or Walk Every Hour

Don’t let the cold keep you glued to your chair. Take standing breaks or short walks to boost circulation and clear your head.

Prioritise Sleep, Not Just Deadlines

Burnout sneaks up faster in winter. Rest well so you can work smart, not just hard.

If you want to learn more about managing burnout, take a listen to our latest podcast with Helen Nicholson, where Brent Lindeque chats about how to beat burnout!


Sources: Supplied 
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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Opal Is Trending Again… But This Time, There’s Hope https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/opal-is-trending-again-but-this-time-theres-hope/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/opal-is-trending-again-but-this-time-theres-hope/#respond Sat, 12 Apr 2025 04:36:06 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=148544

A tragic post about Opal, a 45-year-old orangutan kept in solitary confinement, is trending again, nine years after it first broke hearts. But this time, it’s not just sadness that’s...

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A tragic post about Opal, a 45-year-old orangutan kept in solitary confinement, is trending again, nine years after it first broke hearts. But this time, it’s not just sadness that’s spreading… it’s action.

 

South Africa (12 April 2025) – Every so often, a story resurfaces on social media that stops you in your tracks. This week, that story is about Opal the orangutan.

If you’ve seen the post about the orangutan kept in solitary confinement at a zoo outside Pietermaritzburg, you’re not alone. The heartbreaking words are being widely shared once more. Many think it’s new. Many are reacting with fresh horror. But here’s the thing… it was first published nine years ago.

And while that fact might feel like a punch to the gut, there is good news here.

Opal’s story has not disappeared into the void. It’s endured. It’s echoed. And it’s been seen by millions. Since it was first published in 2016 by the Kloof and Highway SPCA, it’s been featured by major news outlets across South Africa, including eNCA, News24, The Citizen and The Witness. It’s crossed timelines, platforms, and even borders… moving more people each year to ask how something like this could possibly still be happening.

Below is a video from a protest in 2021.

Opal is a 45-year-old orangutan, a species known for their intelligence, emotional depth and strong maternal bonds. In the wild, they thrive in dense forests, constantly moving through trees, building new nests each night and raising their young with immense care and devotion. For Opal, however, life has looked very different.

The original SPCA statement described her enclosure as a “barren daytime cell, equipped with a few poles as a makeshift jungle gym, surrounded by a rotating crowd of onlookers. She is alone. She has no trees to climb, no rain to shield from, no other orangutans for company. The loneliness she’s endured is unimaginable.”

And yet, her story has stayed alive. That’s the remarkable part.

A year ago, a petition was launched, and it now sits at over 81,000 signatures. That kind of public mobilisation matters. It puts pressure on decision-makers, it gives organisations like the SPCA more weight when they advocate for change and it reminds the world that we haven’t forgotten.

And there’s more: according to the original 2016 plea, there is a sanctuary that is ready to take her in. A place where she could finally know peace. Specialists in primate care have offered to rehabilitate her, to teach her how to socialise, how to feel safe again, how to live in something closer to what nature intended.

Opal Is Trending Again... But This Time, There’s Hope
Photo Credit: Ban Animal Trading South Africa Facebook

The owner of the facility where Opal lives has thus far refused these offers. In a written statement published in 2021, the Natal Zoological Gardens said they “strongly object” to “misleading emotive untruths that are posted on Facebook and other social media platforms”.

“The Natal Zoological Gardens is regularly inspected by the SPCA and while Opal is currently on her own, that has not always been the case. Orangutans are naturally semi-solitary animals. Posts on Facebook claiming Opal has always been on her own are blatantly untrue,” said a spokesperson for the zoo.

“Opal’s physical condition speaks for itself, she is a perfect example of a healthy captive orangutan.”

“Well-meaning people hit the share button without fact checking and a social media frenzy ensues with little thought for the employees and families supported by the Zoo”

But the pressure is building. The calls are getting louder. And the world is watching.

Which brings us to the positive part. The power of people. This is a real-time example of how compassion doesn’t expire. How a story from nearly a decade ago can reignite outrage and empathy. How the internet (often criticised for being a messy place) can become a collective amplifier for something that truly matters.

If you’ve shared Opal’s story recently, thank you. If you’ve signed the petition, you’ve added your voice to something far greater. And if you’ve only just discovered it now, know this: every bit of awareness helps.

We might not have saved Opal yet… but she is not forgotten. And that means everything.

To support the call for Opal’s release or find more information, you can reach out to the Kloof and Highway SPCA or sign the ongoing petition that continues to gather momentum.

Because no animal, especially one so intelligent, so emotional and so sentient, deserves to spend her days in a cage, watching the world pass by without her. Not anymore. Not when we can do better.

Opal Is Trending Again... But This Time, There’s Hope
Photo Credit: Kloof And Highway SPCA

Sources: Various linked in article 
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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So You Want to Turn Yourself Into a Chat GPT Action Figure https://www.goodthingsguy.com/fun/so-you-want-to-turn-yourself-into-a-chat-gpt-action-figure/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/fun/so-you-want-to-turn-yourself-into-a-chat-gpt-action-figure/#respond Fri, 11 Apr 2025 12:00:53 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=148461

If your social media pages have started to look like the aisles of a toy store (except the toys in question are action figures of your friends and co-workers), you’d...

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If your social media pages have started to look like the aisles of a toy store (except the toys in question are action figures of your friends and co-workers), you’d be forgiven for wondering what the heck is going on. It’s another AI trend, friends, and you too can turn yourself into a Chat GPT action figure in a few, super simple steps.

 

Global (11 April 2025) — On today’s episode of ‘What Version of Me Can AI Create’, people are turning themselves into action figures and Barbie knock-offs. It’s the Chat GPT action figure trend, and you don’t need to be a tech whizz to make one yourself.

Before we share the simple tips to create your Chat GPT, it’s worth mentioning that not all AI trends have been created equally, and some most definitely require more consideration before creating yours than others.

Take the recent Studio Ghibli art trend, for example. Many got on board to create their animated selves, not knowing the context of the art itself.

Hayao Miyazaki, the founder of Studio Ghibli, was notorious for his meticulous, hand-drawn and watercolour artworks. These took thousands of hours to turn into films, and it was through the very human process of creating these works that Studio Ghibli became synonymous with such a unique kind of beauty. There’s a good argument that if Miyazaki (who openly shared his critical thoughts on AI in the art world) were still alive, he would’ve been beyond disappointed that something so dear to him and the human spirit had been reduced to a few clicks of a button.

Is turning yourself into a Chat GPT action figure any different? Well, for one, it’s all about whether you’re trying to replicate some other creative style that already exists, or whether you’re creating your own unique style, just with a little help from AI. Luckily for the world of dolls, there’s lots of room to be creative on your own terms (and, it’s not like Barbie’s no longer going to be able to sell physical dolls because the world made image versions of themselves as toys).

In fact, some people are using the trend for good, like the ‘Extinction Edition’, which you can read all about here. 

So You Want to Turn Yourself Into a Chat GPT Action Figure

First and foremost, you’re going to need access to Chat GPT. Some people say that you have to use the app, but we used the web version without hassle.

Next, you’ll need to let the AI know what you want to do. Prompt example: Please generate a realistic doll/action figure version of the subject in the images I’m going to send you. Please make them full figure, displayed in a clear, plastic box fit for a toy and include the name (insert your name) on the box. Please include the following accessories (insert physical items you tend to have on you often; a coffee, flowers, whatever you associate with your identity).

Then, upload your images and wait eagerly for the results!

You can alter the prompt details to your liking, and even create an action figure set for you and your partner or your best friend.

Remember, if you aren’t happy with the image, there’s always room to try again (though only for a limited time if you’re on the free version; after 4-5 attempts, some users were told they’d hit their image generating limits and could only try again the next day).

Happy prompting!


Sources: GTG
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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Sneak Peek: Inside South Africa’s First Club Med – A Coastal Dream in the Making https://www.goodthingsguy.com/travel/sneak-peek-inside-south-africas-first-club-med-a-coastal-dream-in-the-making/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/travel/sneak-peek-inside-south-africas-first-club-med-a-coastal-dream-in-the-making/#respond Fri, 11 Apr 2025 05:48:33 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=147955

South Africa is about to welcome its first-ever Club Med. And it’s not just a holiday destination, it’s a bold celebration of culture, community and coastal magic that’s set to...

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South Africa is about to welcome its first-ever Club Med. And it’s not just a holiday destination, it’s a bold celebration of culture, community and coastal magic that’s set to transform tourism forever.

 

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (11 April 2025) – The Good Things Guy team has just had a sneak peek at something that’s going to change the local travel game forever… and we’re very excited.

Nestled along the unspoilt coastline of KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast, Club Med Tinley is shaping up to be one of the most exciting hospitality developments our country has seen in decades. Scheduled to open in July 2026, this isn’t just a resort, it’s a bold celebration of South African culture, a game-changer for tourism and a massive boost for the economy.

And honestly? It’s giving us all the holiday feels already.

Club Med's Arrival in South Africa: A Beacon of Hope for Tourism and Employment
Artist render of the resort | Photo Credit: Club Med Tinley
Club Med's Arrival in South Africa: A Beacon of Hope for Tourism and Employment
Artist render of the resort | Photo Credit: Club Med Tinley
Club Med's Arrival in South Africa: A Beacon of Hope for Tourism and Employment
Artist render of the resort | Photo Credit: Club Med Tinley

Club Med Tinley is set to be the largest hospitality development in South Africa in over thirty years and it’s bringing a wave of opportunity with it. The resort is expected to create over 800 direct jobs, 1,500 indirect jobs, and employ 1,200 local construction workers during its build. That’s not just progress; it’s empowerment. Families will be uplifted, local businesses supported, and the tourism sector revitalised.

“Club Med Tinley represents a great step forward in the hospitality industry, serving as one of the larger hospitality projects in South Africa,” the team shared.

Designed With Heart and Soul

More than just a luxury destination, Club Med Tinley is being designed to reflect the soul of South Africa. The collaboration between South African firms Craft of Architecture and Mobius, alongside French design studio Studio Marc Hertrich & Nicolas Adnet, is producing something truly unique.

Zulu artistry and traditions are seamlessly woven into every corner from bold beadwork patterns on the façades to colourful, handwoven textiles in the interiors. Even the public spaces have been curated with local art and craftsmanship, offering guests a deep, immersive experience that honours heritage while embracing a global standard.

And then there’s the beach culture. Think: surf at sunrise, bonfires at sunset, wide-open terraces and coastal calm. It’s Durban meets design chic, and it’s stunning.

Sneak Peek: Inside South Africa’s First Club Med - A Coastal Dream in the Making
Artist render of the resort | Photo Credit: Club Med Tinley
Sneak Peek: Inside South Africa’s First Club Med - A Coastal Dream in the Making
Artist render of the resort | Photo Credit: Club Med Tinley
Sneak Peek: Inside South Africa’s First Club Med - A Coastal Dream in the Making
Artist render of the resort | Photo Credit: Club Med Tinley

The 32-hectare site was once a sugarcane plantation, now being thoughtfully transformed into a sanctuary that celebrates nature, not replaces it. Flanked by estuaries, wetlands and dune forests, the entire project is being developed with sustainability front and centre.

Floating roofs for natural airflow, solar panels, water-saving systems, and indigenous landscaping are just a few of the eco-conscious features. In fact, the resort is gunning for a Green Star 4 rating from the Green Building Council of South Africa… a bold move that proves luxury and sustainability can absolutely go hand in hand.

It’s Not Just a Resort. It’s a Movement.

Club Med Tinley is also deeply invested in its people. Through partnerships with the Nukakamma School, over 110 young South Africans from Ballito townships are already being trained in hospitality, with many gaining experience at other Club Med resorts globally before returning home to run their own.

By the time the resort opens, at least 220 locals will be fully trained and employed. This is a real, lasting impact for the community. And the construction phase alone is already changing lives, with over 1,200 workers sourced mostly from within 10km of the site.

Sneak Peek: Inside South Africa’s First Club Med - A Coastal Dream in the Making
Progress on site | Photo Credit: Club Med Tinley
Sneak Peek: Inside South Africa’s First Club Med - A Coastal Dream in the Making
Progress on site | Photo Credit: Club Med Tinley
Sneak Peek: Inside South Africa’s First Club Med - A Coastal Dream in the Making
Progress on site | Photo Credit: Club Med Tinley

Whether you’re a family looking for all-inclusive fun, a couple chasing sunsets and spa days, or a solo traveller wanting beach-to-bush bliss — Club Med Tinley will have it all:

  • A vibrant Beach Club for water lovers.
  • A buzzing Resort Centre with bars, restaurants and live entertainment.
  • Kids Clubs for every age (yes, even toddlers).
  • Over 400 rooms including luxurious Exclusive Collection Suites.
  • A 500-person convention centre for events, retreats and conferences.
  • A commitment to community tourism and eco-friendly living.

Why is this a Good Thing? Because it’s more than a resort. It’s a love letter to South Africa. It’s jobs and skills and sustainability. It’s a celebration of Zulu culture and coastal beauty. It’s the kind of tourism we should be proud of… grounded, inclusive and future-facing.

And honestly, we can’t wait for it to open!


Sources: Club Med Tinley 
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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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The Chequered Flag Falls on ‘South Africa’s Most Beautiful Drive’ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/south-africas-most-beautiful-drive-2025/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/south-africas-most-beautiful-drive-2025/#respond Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:00:13 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=147430

South Africa’s Most Beautiful Drive saw a mix of 65 rare classic, modern classics, sportscars, and special vehicles take on the Cape 1000.   South Africa (31 March 2025) –...

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South Africa’s Most Beautiful Drive saw a mix of 65 rare classic, modern classics, sportscars, and special vehicles take on the Cape 1000.

 

South Africa (31 March 2025) – After a week on the Western Cape’s finest roads, the roar of South Africa’s rarest and most unique vehicles faded as the fourth edition of “South Africa’s Most Beautiful Drive” came to a close.

From 16 to 21 March, a mix of 65 hand-selected vehicles took part in The Cape 1000, an annual grand touring regularity rally that sees participants drive 1600 km (1000 miles) across the province. Supported by Private Clients at Old Mutual, The Cape 1000 reimagines iconic rallies of the past within an African context.

“The running of the fourth edition of The Cape 1000 has just been phenomenal. The memories that are made, the friendships that are forged and the event itself has revolutionised the way car rallying is seen in South Africa.” – Vanessa Crichton, the organiser of The Cape 1000

The vehicles participating in the event are a carefully curated mix to ensure every single one involved provides a unique element to the event. The entries to The Cape 1000 are either by invitation or application and the vehicles are divided into pre-1977 classics, modern classics (1977 to 1996), sports (1997 to 2025) and special.

Each category is limited by brand and model, which allows for the widest possible variety of cars taking part in the event.

“The cars are always the absolute rock stars of The Cape 1000. All of these cars have got a backstory to them, and it is amazing to learn those backstories and to have them come together to make the event what it is.” – Warren Brosnihan, official event MC and former Springbok rugby player

Some standout vehicles from the 2025 The Cape 1000 included a Ferrari Daytona (1970), a Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (1962) and an iconic Lamborghini Diablo (1993). Providing a modern twist to the event were a 2025 Ferrari Daytona 12 Cilindri, thanks to Scuderia South Africa and a still unreleased 2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53, provided by Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

The Cape 1000 also has a strong charitable aspect, as each year the event raises money for the QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA) and the Motorsport Legends Benevolent Fund. The money that goes to these organisations was raised at an end-of-event auction, where the event participants could bid on unique memorabilia and other items from this year’s The Cape 1000.

QASA is a non-profit organisation representing persons with spinal cord injury and physical disability in South Africa, and the Motorsport Legends Benevolent Fund provides emergency financial relief to people involved in the sport who have fallen on hard times.

While The Cape 1000 is more than just a rally, a winner still had to be crowned. After spending a week traversing the province, Sean and Daisy Flynn emerged victorious in the 2025 The Cape 1000 in their stunning Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Alongside the overall winner’s prize, a spirit award was presented to Steve Geogala and Peter Wales.

The Cape 1000 will return for its fifth anniversary in 2026. While the route will only be revealed in the months leading up to the event, registrations will open towards the end of 2025 and will be via The Cape 1000’s website.

Sean and Daisy Flynn with their winning Mercedes Benz SLS AMG

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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We’re Giggling: American Shares Afrikaans Words She Has Beef With https://www.goodthingsguy.com/fun/were-giggling-american-shares-afrikaans-words-she-has-beef-with/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/fun/were-giggling-american-shares-afrikaans-words-she-has-beef-with/#comments Thu, 27 Mar 2025 09:00:44 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=147219

An American learning Afrikaans is sharing the words she loves and the words she has beef with, and we’re giggling because she might just have a point on the latter:...

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An American learning Afrikaans is sharing the words she loves and the words she has beef with, and we’re giggling because she might just have a point on the latter:

 

South Africa (27 March 2025) — An American content creator named Morgan is learning Afrikaans. With a South African fiancé named Pierre in her life (whose first language is Afrikaans) and lots of time spent in South Africa, Morgan decided that it only made sense to jump on the Afrikaans bandwagon and avoid another braai spent on Google Translate.

Like any language, there are words we’ll love and those we won’t get along with. As Morgan takes others along on her Afrikaans adventure, she’s been transparent in identifying her favourites and her foes.

To the latter, we couldn’t help but giggle because the American might just have a point.

Coming in first is the word ‘reg’. Her argument? Reg is pretty tough to say if Afrikaans isn’t your native tongue, and it sounds like someone clearing their throat.

The second is ‘die’. We cackled at this one because, as Morgan explains, it reads as die (as in, death). For someone who isn’t used to the word, any noun prefaced with die (which is a lot of words) reads as if it is instructing said noun to die.

The last ‘words’ Morgan’s got beef with are actually letters that don’t sound how you’d expect them to. To this point, everyone for whom Afrikaans is a new language knows the struggle.

You can watch Morgan’s full explanation and have a chuckle below:


Sources: @acrosstheatlantic/Instagram
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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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Oldest Lion in the Kruger Makes First Appearance in Years https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/oldest-lion-in-the-kruger-makes-first-appearance-in-years/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/oldest-lion-in-the-kruger-makes-first-appearance-in-years/#respond Thu, 27 Mar 2025 08:00:53 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=147199

The king, believed to be Kruger’s oldest lion, made a special reappearance recently.   Kruger National Park, South Africa (27 March 2025) — A rare sight captivated lucky onlookers at...

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The king, believed to be Kruger’s oldest lion, made a special reappearance recently.

 

Kruger National Park, South Africa (27 March 2025) — A rare sight captivated lucky onlookers at the Kruger National Park recently as an elder lion walked along the H4-2. Believed to be the oldest lion in the Kruger, per Latest Sightings—Kruger, he is also the last of the Mantimahle males.

The Mantimahle males were part of a “remarkable and successful coalition”, as wildlife photographer Deon Kelbrick reported.

These lions once ruled the roost at the Mantimahle Dam region in the Kruger National Park.

The moment of the old king’s reappearance, tinged by Hayley Myburgh, saw the elder lion accompanied by two youngsters who could’ve well been his sons.

The Kruger’s oldest lion is suspected to be 15 years old. While for us humans this age indicates the early stages of being an angst-filled teenager, it is quite a significant age for a lion to reach. 

According to Kruger Park Hostel, 15 years is typically the peak age for lions to reach in the wild. (Consider how much a cub must survive in order to celebrate their first birthday, and perspective starts to take shape).

As Professor Tamás Székely of the Milner Centre for Evolution at the University of Bath shares, lionesses tend to live around 50% longer than wild males.

The elder lion’s spotting was also a big moment for another reason—he had not been seen on the prowl for three years, according to Latest Sightings!

Meanwhile, in more news from South Africa’s wildlife, the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital celebrated 8 wild and wonderful years in action. They have cared for 15,000 patients in their time—from small critters to great creatures; saving lives and extending them thanks to their efforts!


Sources: Various (Linked Above)
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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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