#TheGoodStuff Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/thegoodstuff/ Mon, 12 May 2025 11:53:58 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-gtg_favicon-32x32.png #TheGoodStuff Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/thegoodstuff/ 32 32 Cape Town Surfers Surf 100 Waves, Raise Over R100K! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/cape-town-surfers-surf-100-waves-raise-over-r100k/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/cape-town-surfers-surf-100-waves-raise-over-r100k/#respond Mon, 12 May 2025 14:30:57 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=150893

The sunny shores of Strandfontein Pavilion buzzed with excitement as surfers caught 100 waves to support at-risk youth.   Cape Town, South Africa (12 May 2025) – The sands of...

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The sunny shores of Strandfontein Pavilion buzzed with excitement as surfers caught 100 waves to support at-risk youth.

 

Cape Town, South Africa (12 May 2025) – The sands of Strandfontein Pavilion came alive with energy, excitement, and epic surf as the 9Miles Project hosted its first-ever 100Wave Challenge on Saturday, 3 May.

The main event was all about getting surfers to commit to each catching 100 waves in one day to raise funds for marginalised youth in coastal communities. And…they did all that and more!

Surfers Challenged to Catch 100 Waves in 1 Day for At-Risk Kids

“Gabriel, our youngest participant, stole the spotlight early on by becoming the first solo surfer to catch 100 waves – a jaw-dropping effort that had the crowd cheering,” commented Margo Carelse on behalf of the 9Miles Project.

“But another standout moment came from Faieq, a long-time 9Miles advocate who’s gone from student to role model. Faieq not only caught all 100 waves, but he also smashed his fundraising goal, raising the most funds as a solo surfer on the day. His passion, determination, and commitment to giving back were truly inspiring.”

The event exceeded expectations, raising a staggering R125,285, surpassing its R100,000 goal. This huge and heartfelt contribution will be poured into 9Miles, which offers surf therapy, mentorship, and life skills programmes that create safe spaces and empower vulnerable young people for a brighter future.

Riders came, conquered and crushed their goal. The whole team jointly agreed that the heart of the epic challenge was all about showing up, pushing through, and giving back.

“We’re so proud of everyone who made this day possible,” said the 9Miles team.


Sources: BackaBuddy
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Bruce Campbell Defies 2 Debilitating Diseases and Thrives as Sporting Inspiration! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/bruce-campbell-defies-debilitating-disease/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/bruce-campbell-defies-debilitating-disease/#respond Mon, 06 Jan 2025 12:00:25 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=140434

If you ever find yourself in need of a reminder of the power of human resilience, the life and journey of Bruce Campbell is a great place to start. Diagnosed...

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If you ever find yourself in need of a reminder of the power of human resilience, the life and journey of Bruce Campbell is a great place to start. Diagnosed with two rare diseases, he faced immense challenges that could have easily derailed his life or left him in a wheelchair. But, with unmatched resilience and a “can-do” attitude, he not only overcame pain, paralysis and obstacles but also excelled in various sports and is a living beacon of hope for thousands.

 

Eastern Cape, South Africa (06 January 2025) – It takes a remarkable person with an undying spirit and can-do attitude to relentlessly go after their dreams -and go on to excel- despite suffering two rare and life-threatening health conditions.

A true-born, inspiring athlete, Bruce Campbell is known to many as an award-winning national and international sports star in several fields. Be it mountain biking, competitive water or long-distance marathons, the Eastern Cape multi-sport champion comes alive at the signal of the starting buzzer and gives it his all!

What many fans may not know, when watching Campbell on his bike or in the water, is that he had Guillain-Barré syndrome as a child and then Pompe Disease as an adult – two extremely rare and debilitating diseases.

According to Nelson Mandela University (NMU), at six years old, while camping with his family, Campbell collapsed and couldn’t get up. He was rushed to Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town, where specialists diagnosed him with Guillain-Barré, which attacks the nervous system.

The condition left him paralysed. He underwent an emergency tracheotomy and was hooked to a ventilator.

“The prognosis was grim. Doctors told my parents that I might never walk again or regain full cognitive function,” he shares.

It took a great mental shift and tapping into a newfound sense of resilience for Campbell to persevere through months of pain.

He soon moved from a wheelchair to the floor, learning to crawl again. He later regained his ability to swim with his dad at his side and went on to represent the Eastern Cape in swimming, water polo, mountain biking, triathlons and surfing, coming second in South Africa for the sport, first in lifesaving and winning both on-road and off-road triathlon championships.

He later represented South Africa at the Cross Triathlon World Champs in Germany, placing seventh in the world.

“These were not just physical milestones—they were life-affirming victories that ignited my passion for sport,” says Campbell.

But yet another dark and very undeserving cloud loomed over this remarkable life. While working as a teacher in 2015, despite his previous triumphs, Campbell suddenly experienced difficulty walking. He recalls struggling to even climb the stairs to his classroom. The diagnosis was a shock: Pompe Disease, a rare condition that causes an abnormal buildup of glycogen in cells, leading to muscle and nerve damage.

Medicine was available to treat it, but the doctor warned Campbell that it was “extremely expensive” and that he might have a life-threatening allergic reaction. A devasted Campbell was advised to stop all sports and exercise since it would cause a more rapid breakdown of his muscles, NMU reports.

He was later introduced to the Rare Diseases South Africa (RDSA), where he was informed that his medical aid should cover the treatment, which involved a bi-weekly intravenous drip costing R466,000 per month. For the past eight years, Campbell and his wife have mixed the medication, and a nurse administers the infusion intravenously for five to six hours.

As he regained his strength, Campbell focused on cycling and has used it as a platform to raise awareness about the many rare diseases afflicting thousands of people both in South Africa and around the world.

Despite surviving two rare diseases, he considered himself lucky. He continues to live life to the fullest and inspires many others along the way. Today, as an inspiring ambassador of RDSA, Campbell has repeatedly completed challenging endurance events like the Cape Epic, the Munga, and the Ironman.

Campbell is reliance personified. He didn’t just survive, he thrived!


Sources: Nelson Mandela University
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Rural High School Girls Empowered to Be the Next Generation of Conservationists https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/rural-high-school-girls-generation-conservationists/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/rural-high-school-girls-generation-conservationists/#respond Thu, 21 Nov 2024 13:00:24 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=137672

A group of 16 young women from rural South Africa had an incredible week learning about conservation and empowering themselves. They explored fossils, rescued wildlife, studied insects, and learned about...

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A group of 16 young women from rural South Africa had an incredible week learning about conservation and empowering themselves. They explored fossils, rescued wildlife, studied insects, and learned about indigenous cultures, inspiring them to become future environmental leaders.

 

Cape Town, South Africa (21 November 2024) – A group of 16 young high school girls from rural schools in the Boland and West Coast regions recently delved into the world of leopard research and conservation.

Through the Cape Leopard Trust Girls Programme, these young women were immersed in a week-long adventure that ignited their passion for the environment and empowered them to become future conservation leaders.

The unique programme provides valuable insight and experience for girls before they make critical subject choices for Grade 10, inspiring them to consider careers in conservation and the green economy.

From exploring the ancient wonders of the West Coast Fossil Park to witnessing the delicate work of wildlife rehabilitation at SANCCOB, the programme offered a diverse range of experiences.

The group also gained insights into the fascinating world of entomology through the University of Stellenbosch’s Iimbovane Outreach Project, sparking curiosity and inspiring scientific exploration.

For many, discovering the complexities of ant species was a delightful surprise, sparking unexpected interest, Cape Leopard Trust explains.

Beyond the academic aspects, the program emphasised the importance of holistic well-being. A workshop with Mama Flo focused on women’s health and hygiene, empowering the girls to address period poverty in their communities and promoting self-care.

The week culminated with a visit to the !Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre, where the girls delved into indigenous knowledge and cultural conservation. They participated in traditional activities like crafting tea from fynbos plants, fostering a deep appreciation for cultural heritage and the natural world.

Returning to their communities, the girls were tasked with three impactful service assignments which included peer information sessions, early childhood development storybook readings at ECD centres in their communities as well as hosting snare awareness workshops.

Through hands-on experiences and inspiring connections, the programme ignited curiosity, empowered young women, and opened doors to careers in conservation and the green economy whilst contributing to a healthy body and mind.

The 2024 Girls in Conservation programme was made possible thanks to the generous support of our donors, especially the Maria Marina Foundation.


Sources: Cape Leopard Trust
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Mitchells Plain Seniors Bloom With Joy at Westridge Rose Garden Show! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/mitchells-plain-seniors-bloom-westridge-rose-garden/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/mitchells-plain-seniors-bloom-westridge-rose-garden/#respond Thu, 21 Nov 2024 10:00:10 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=137649

The seniors of Mitchells Plain transformed the Westridge Rose Garden into a stunning floral haven! Their dedication and newfound gardening skills, acquired through a workshop, have brought the garden to...

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The seniors of Mitchells Plain transformed the Westridge Rose Garden into a stunning floral haven! Their dedication and newfound gardening skills, acquired through a workshop, have brought the garden to life with stunning blooms.

 

Mitchells Plain, South Africa (21 November 2024) – There is just something so heartwarming about seeing older people pour themselves into their beloved hobbies and seeing them having the best time! Their genuine grins against their unique wrinkles as they engage in activities they love after a lifetime of hard work and dedication are a beautiful reminder to cherish them and the simple joys of life.

The seniors from Mitchells Plain in Cape Town beamed at the beauty produced by their green fingers after showcasing stunning blooms at their first rose show held at the flourishing Westridge Rose Garden on Monday, 11 November.

The event highlighted the remarkable contributions of community members who participated in the Mini-pruning Workshop earlier this year by the City’s Recreation and Parks Department, where the oldies gained hands-on skills to care for the roses now blooming in vibrant displays throughout the garden.

The rose show gathered residents to celebrate the results of the September workshop, which taught participants key techniques for rose care, from summer pruning to proper watering and fertilising.

The practical skills taught by the City’s horticultural team have greatly improved the garden’s beautiful blooms, highlighting the dedication of both the seniors and the garden staff. Each workshop participant received a rose cutting to take home, enabling them to cultivate their newfound enthusiasm for gardening in their own gardens.

“The Westridge Rose Garden is a shining example of how our community can come together to cultivate beauty and pride in our public spaces. The dedication of our seniors is inspiring and to see the garden flourish under their care is a testament to the effort they’ve invested,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia Van Der Ross.

“This garden is a cherished space for Westridge. It’s wonderful to see our seniors lead the way in creating a beautiful, welcoming environment that encourages a lasting passion for gardening within the community,” added Ward Councillor Ashley Potts.

The Mitchells Plain seniors have shown immense passion and dedication to gardening and brightening up their community.

Despite their age, they have actively participated in workshops, learned new skills, and put in consistent effort to cultivate the beautiful rose garden.

What a lovely reminder to us all that you’re never too old to try something new and to take a moment to appreciate the beauty life has to offer.


Sources: City of Cape Town
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Brave Teen Keegan Lowe Rescues 3 People Being Washed Away at Pennington Beach https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/brave-teen-keegan-lowe-rescues-3-people-pennington-beach/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/brave-teen-keegan-lowe-rescues-3-people-pennington-beach/#respond Thu, 21 Nov 2024 09:00:51 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=137640

Deserving to be praised as a hero with the biggest of hearts, 16-year-old Keegan Lowe was enjoying a casual day at the beach with his sister and friends on Wednesday,...

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Deserving to be praised as a hero with the biggest of hearts, 16-year-old Keegan Lowe was enjoying a casual day at the beach with his sister and friends on Wednesday, 20 November, before disaster struck. He noticed four teens struggling against the powerful rip currents at sea and wasted no time in diving in to rescue them.

 

Pennington Beach, South Africa (21 November 2024) – A casual day at the beach with his sister and friends took an unexpected turn when 16-year-old Keegan Lowe noticed four distressed teenage boys who had been swept out to sea in strong rip currents at Pennington Beach.

Without a moment’s hesitation, Keegan, armed with nothing more than a diving fin and a spirit of courage, plunged into the rough waters. Battling against the unforgiving waves, he managed to rescue two struggling teenagers, bringing them safely to shore.

After safely bringing the first two boys to the beach, Keegan then grabbed a yellow rescue torpedo buoy and re-entered the water to go after the other two boys who were in distress beyond the mid-surf break, NSRI reports.

“Good Samaritan Keegan reached one of the male teenagers, beyond the mid-surf break, but he could not locate the fourth boy. He was able to bring that third teenager out of the water safely to the beach.

“Keegan tried to locate the fourth teenager but by that stage sight of the casualty had been lost in the outer surf line,” Linda Putter, NSRI Rocky Bay deputy station commander, said.

The three survivors were medically evaluated by paramedics, and they required no medical care.

Sea conditions were rough with North Easterly winds as Umdoni lifeguards continued search efforts for the missing teenager. Shoreline search efforts were conducted by NSRI, IPSS, security officers and Police, but there remained no signs of the missing teenager.

While we celebrate the extraordinary courage of a young man who risked his own life to save others, our heartfelt thoughts, care, and compassion are with the family and friends of the missing male teenager, who we hope will soon be found.


Sources: National Sea Rescue Institute
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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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Taariq Stokes Embarks on 704km Journey to Break the Silence on Men’s Mental Health https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/taariq-stokes-embarks-on-704km-journey-to-break-the-silence-on-mens-mental-health/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/taariq-stokes-embarks-on-704km-journey-to-break-the-silence-on-mens-mental-health/#respond Thu, 21 Nov 2024 06:30:02 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=137597

Taariq Stokes, a courageous runner from Wentworth, Durban, has embarked on a remarkable 704km journey from Walkerville, Johannesburg to Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. This extraordinary feat is not just...

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Taariq Stokes, a courageous runner from Wentworth, Durban, has embarked on a remarkable 704km journey from Walkerville, Johannesburg to Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. This extraordinary feat is not just a physical challenge but a powerful statement against the predominantly silent struggle of men’s mental health issues.

 

spar hero of the week 

Johannesburg, South Africa (21 November 2024) – Yesterday, a determined Taariq Stokes officially laced up his running shoes to tackle a 704 km journey from Walkerville in Johannesburg to Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban in 76 hours!

Taariq from Wentworth, Durban is one of 19 runners who have partnered with a men’s mental health group from Johannesburg called Man of Valour which hopes to raise R50,000 to support a mental health institution and establish community workshops to offer real support to those struggling.

The runners will be split into two teams, Team A and Team B. Each team will have a total of six runners running separately in three pairs. Each pair will run in a rotational schedule from start to finish, completing the full distance together.

Over and above raising funds, the initiative seeks to use road running to break the stigma on men’s mental health and offer real support to those who are deeply struggling.

Men are often expected to be tough, emotionless, and independent, making it difficult for them to acknowledge and express their vulnerabilities. Something Taariq understands well.

“As a man, I know how hard it is to speak up. We believe that every donation whether big or small is a step toward empowering men to seek the help that they need,” Taariq shared ahead of the run which kicked off today at midday.

We wish Taariq and the rest of these inspiring runners all the best as they hit the road in support of the vital cause of men’s mental health!

To make a donation, visit the Man of Valour BackaBuddy page.


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

 

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From Near Extinction, Cape Mountain Zebras Are Now Reclaiming Zebraskop as Their Home! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/cape-mountain-zebras-zebraskop-home/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/cape-mountain-zebras-zebraskop-home/#respond Thu, 21 Nov 2024 06:00:34 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=137576

Once on the brink of extinction, the majestic Cape Mountain Zebra now finds hope in a dedicated conservation effort. These resilient animals now have fresh land at Zebraskop to roam,...

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Once on the brink of extinction, the majestic Cape Mountain Zebra now finds hope in a dedicated conservation effort. These resilient animals now have fresh land at Zebraskop to roam, grow and ensure their genetic health, thanks to the efforts of WWF and CapeNature.

 

Zebraskop, South Africa (21 November 2024) – Similar to rhinos, Cape Mountain Zebras were once almost hunted to extinction. Their numbers dropped as low as 60 individual animals at the start of the 20th century, WFF South Africa confirms.

Endemic to South Africa, their last strongholds were in only three places – an area near Cradock in the Eastern Cape (now the Mountain Zebra National Park), Kammanassie near Oudtshoorn and Gamkaberg near Calitzdorp, two provincial nature reserves in the Western Cape.

Through concerted conservation efforts, Cape Mountain Zebra numbers have recovered to an estimated 5,185 animals, but the threats remain.

These include genetic weaknesses due to their being historically isolated in small populations, habitat fragmentation and hybridisation with other equids, including plains and Hartmann’s mountain zebra.

Zebraskop offers lifeline and sanctuary to zebras

This is why WWF and CapeNature have been working together to secure more land for Cape mountain zebras, in particular, to better manage their metapopulation (a population distributed across many sites) and gene pool.

Thanks to a generous donation, WWF was able to buy the 4,172-hectare Zebraskop property, a former game farm which lies to the south of the Gamkaberg Nature Reserve, as a site for a genetic rescue programme.

As part of the first phase of this operation, excess existing game on the farm were sold off to raise funds and to allow the veld to recover from past overgrazing. The funds generated from the sale of these animals were then used to establish a breeding herd of Cape Mountain Zebras.

One of the most heartwarming stories within this initiative involves a mare from Kammanassie Nature Reserve. This resilient zebra had wandered off the reserve and found solace among a herd of cattle. Recognising her unique potential, conservationists carefully relocated her to Zebraskop in July.

To help her settle, the team came up with a plan. Theresa van der Westhuizen, Conservation Manager Off Reserve with CapeNature, explains:

“We realised we would have to create an environment that she would be comfortable with so that she wouldn’t want to go roaming again. The best case scenario was to put her with cattle because it seemed that is what she favoured, and so we arranged with a neighbouring farmer to loan three of his cattle to join her in the camp.”

In September 2024, two more zebras were brought in – one a stallion that was airlifted from a farm adjacent to Gamkaberg (it too had left the reserve) and yet another Kammanassie mare.

Theresa says the herd of three is settling well, although the Vlakteplaas mare is being somewhat bossy towards the Noll mare and trying to keep her away from the stallion.

There’s also a third phase of the project planned for which more funds are needed – to create a 2km by 500m-wide corridor to connect Zebraskop with Gamkaberg, which will allow the zebras to roam more freely. This, however, will require good fencing and cattle grids as the zebras will have to cross public roads.

The journey to recovery is ongoing, but the dedication and perseverance of conservationists offer hope for the Cape Mountain Zebra.


Sources: WFF 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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A Village Comes Together to Restore 2 KZN Families’ Hope and Provide the Warmth of a Home https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/village-comes-together-kzn-families-hope/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/village-comes-together-kzn-families-hope/#respond Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:00:45 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=137583

In the spirit of community and compassion, the Collen Mashawana Foundation and IDC joined forces to uplift vulnerable families in KwaZulu-Natal. They were gifted fully furnished homes, offering them a...

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In the spirit of community and compassion, the Collen Mashawana Foundation and IDC joined forces to uplift vulnerable families in KwaZulu-Natal. They were gifted fully furnished homes, offering them a safe and comfortable space to finally heal and thrive.

 

Hammersdale, South Africa (20 November 2024) – Just as it takes a village to raise a child, it should also take that same village to care for our elderly.

These are the wise words of South African philanthropist Collen Mashawana. Through his foundation and in partnership with the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa (IDC), which shares his passion for helping the elderly in need, he has worked to provide an unmatched gift of comfort: new homes for them to call their own.

For Aron Mngadi, being the sole provider for his family of seven was a position he assumed due to unfortunate circumstances despite living with a disability in a mud house in Hammersdale, KwaZulu-Natal.

“Over the years, heavy rains weakened their home, leading to its collapse and leaving only one room habitable. This situation was compounded when Bab’Mngadi suffered a stroke, rendering him unable to speak and paralyzed on one side,” the Collen Mashawana Foundation (CMF) explains.

His nephew took over the responsibility of caring for him and supporting the family by selling chips and sweets.

After learning about their living conditions, CMF and IDC committed to building them a new home.

Friday, 15 November marked a new and emotional chapter for the family as a newly built and fully furnished two-bedroom home was handed over to Bab’Mngadi to share with his loved ones.

Also on the receiving end of a miracle in the form of four walls, was the Mbhele family. The Hammersdale family was displaced during the 2021 floods leaving 61-year-old matriarch Nelisiwe Ntombikayise Mbhele to care for her children and nine grandchildren under dire circumstances.

With her adult children struggling to secure employment, the situation has strained their fragile family unit, forcing some members to seek shelter elsewhere.

When CMF and IDC met with them five weeks ago, they pledged to improve their living conditions.

“We have honoured that promise by providing them with a new, fully furnished home to help them rebuild their lives.”

Going above and beyond to make a difference in this family’s lives, the CMF has employed three of Ma’Mbhele’s daughters, allowing them to earn an income, while Ncanda Funerals generously donated a fridge and groceries to see them through the next three months.


Sources: Collen Mashawana Foundation
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A Purrfect Happy Ending as Tshwane SPCA Rescues Kitten From Car Engine! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/purrfect-ending-kitten-car-engine/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/purrfect-ending-kitten-car-engine/#respond Wed, 20 Nov 2024 12:00:04 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=137546

A tiny kitten found itself in a perilous predicament, trapped inside a car engine. Fortunately, its concerned owner heard its faint meows and rushed to the Tshwane SPCA for help,...

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A tiny kitten found itself in a perilous predicament, trapped inside a car engine. Fortunately, its concerned owner heard its faint meows and rushed to the Tshwane SPCA for help, where the rescue team carefully freed the frightened feline.

 

Tshwane, South Africa (20 November 2024) – Well, I’ve heard of snakes and spanners getting stuck in engines, but kittens? Never! Not until recently.

Curiosity may have been said to “kill the cat”, but in this instance, it got one little chap stuck in a car’s engine. Thankfully, the attentive owner of the vehicle heard the kitten’s cries and meows before starting the car and going about his day.

Concerned for the little one’s safety, he quickly sought help from the Tshwane SPCA.

“Inspector Andrew Kekana quickly jacked up the car while our General Manager, Veronica van Greunen, crawled underneath to locate the kitten.

“Field Officer Solly Skhosana joined in, and together they began the delicate task of finding and rescuing the frightened furball. The kitten, understandably terrified, wasn’t exactly cooperative and put our skills to the test,” Tshwane SPCA said.

After much sweat and strategy, the dedicated animal rescue team eventually managed to bring the poor, shaken kitten out to safety.

After a thorough check-up, some much-needed food, and water, he’s now doing great and will soon be ready for adoption.

If you’re interested in giving this little adventurer a forever home, visit the Tshwane SPCA to meet him and complete the necessary paperwork. Alternatively, you can support his care through donations, using the reference “Kitten Rescue” on their Donations Page.


Sources: Tshwane SPCA 
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Art Exhibition Offers a Sensory Tactile Experience for the Visually Impaired https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/art-exhibition-sensory-experience-visually-impaired/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/art-exhibition-sensory-experience-visually-impaired/#respond Wed, 20 Nov 2024 09:00:17 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=137533

The Javett-UP Art Centre at the University of Pretoria is breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity in the arts. Their latest exhibition, “We, The Purple,” offered a unique opportunity for...

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The Javett-UP Art Centre at the University of Pretoria is breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity in the arts. Their latest exhibition, “We, The Purple,” offered a unique opportunity for ten visually impaired visitors to experience art and history through touch.

 

Pretoria, South Africa (20 November 2024) – What a precious blessing it is to get to open our eyes and see our loved ones, the magnificently crafted beauty of nature and our prized possessions.

Or how about getting to take in the bold colours, hypnotising swirls, striking contrasts and abstract lines of a beautiful artwork? A privilege often denied to the visually impaired.

In a world where sight often takes the lead in shaping our art experiences, the Javett-UP Art Centre at the University of Pretoria (UP) is breaking new ground with its commitment to promoting inclusivity.

The centre’s latest exhibition, We, The Purple welcomed ten visually impaired visitors to experience art and history through touch.

According to UP, this initiative was made possible through the remarkable educational programme Touching History: Exploring Apartheid through Sculpture. This programme, organised in partnership with Blind SA, provided participants with a tactile exploration of apartheid-era South Africa using select sculptures from the Bongi Dhlomo Collection.

These artworks offered a unique, non-visual way to engage with the socio-political history of South Africa from the 1950s to the 1980s. Participants rotated among the sculptures every ten minutes, guided by Javett-UP staff and Blind SA mobility practitioners.

This sensory-rich experience fostered deep connections with themes of apartheid, social justice, and linguistic diversity – subjects that lie at the heart and soul of our country’s dynamic history.

Blind SA praised the initiative, highlighting its impact and inspiration.

“It is initiatives like these that help break down barriers and promote inclusivity in the arts. The centre’s dedication to accessibility and inclusion shone through in every detail.

“The thoughtful programming and interactive elements allowed for meaningful connections with the artworks, fostering a sense of community, learning, exploring and understanding. Everybody had a great time and walked out refreshed with knowledge of South Africa’s art,” said Blind SA CEO Jace Nair.


Sources: University of Pretoria
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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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