The Little Optimist Trust has set a new challenge, encouraging people from across the globe to join in keeping hope afloat!

Cape Town, South Africa (22 October 2024) – A Cape Town charity’s annual fund-raising campaign is going global and attracting international attention, with an invitation to South Africa and the rest of the world to take up its new challenge.

For the past six years, The Little Optimist Trust has held a yearly boat sailing competition to raise funds for its various development projects. These include regular sailing therapy days and renovation projects at under-resourced children’s homes, schools and hospitals.

However, in a change to the traditional format, the charity is now expanding its fund-raising mission with the launch of The Great Optimist Challenge. The charity is inviting anyone living anywhere to take on a charity challenge of their choice between 15 October and 31 December 2024. Not only can participants raise money for The Little Optimist Trust, but they can also include any other charity of their choice – with prizes worth R50,000 on offer.

As part of the challenge, the annual Great Optimist Race will be held at the Boatica exhibition at the V&A Waterfront from 25 to 27 October. All child and adult visitors to the event can participate for free in boat racing (no sailing experience necessary) or SUP time trials at The Little Optimist stand. A small donation and a 15-minute time trial challenge will ensure entry for lucky draw prizes.

“We are inviting people to come to Boatica and take on a challenge by sitting in a boat, sailing, learning to sail, paddling a SUP, or just doing something funny and making a donation. All will be entered into The Great Optimist Challenge, standing a chance to win one of many prizes in our lucky draw worth R50 000,” says The Little Optimist founder Greg Bertish. 

For those unable to attend Boatica, there are endless ways to join the campaign.

A variety of groups and individuals from across the country have already signed up for The Great Optimist Challenge, including ten students from Pretoria University, an international team that will be riding the Wine to Whales bike ride, an in-store challenge at leading retailer Italtile, as well as children and families hosting mini-challenges and Optimist pool parties.

“We challenge you! Do any challenge, anytime, anywhere, any how. Help us do great things for charity. Sign up on our site now and you could also win free tickets to Boatica,” adds Bertish.

For more information, visit thegreatoptimistchallenge.org

Sources: Cart Horse Protection Association 

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Boikanyo – The Dion Herson Foundation is on a mission to empower physically challenged children by providing them with essential mobility aids: specialised wheelchairs, also known as “buggies”.

Gauteng, South Africa (21 October 2024) – Wheelchairs make a world of difference in the lives of physically challenged children.

Sadly, many of those in rural, underserved areas have to go without one for most of their childhood until they are connected with life-changing angels like those of the Boikanyo – The Dion Herson Foundation.

Doing their level best to respond to the high demand for specialised wheelchairs (buggies), the non-governmental organisation has undergone the big task of refurbishing and transforming old, worn-out chairs donated by public hospitals to provide disabled children with essential mobility aids.

“A buggy can provide them with the support they need to sit upright and pain-free. This way they can engage with the world around them.

“Buggies offer more than mobility. They offer dignity, and a chance to be a part of their family and community,” Boikanyo shared.

The dedicated team recently received a generous donation of these chairs from The Paige Project, which they will distribute at their next outreach after giving them a revamp, allowing children the freedom and joy to participate in family activities, attend school, and connect with their peers.

The organisation also extended its thanks to one of its supporters, Ruth Stubbs, who plays a key role in allowing Boikanyo to teach therapists in deep rural areas how to revamp and recycle condemned buggies from state hospitals.

“Our group does it for those terribly contorted and disabled cerebral palsy children who live in rural SA, while she revamps buggies for similarly incapacitated children in Gauteng.”

Their commitment to making a difference is evident in every community outreach and every smile they bring to a child’s face.

The next outreach will be held near Tzaneen, Limpopo, where about 100 children are on the waiting list for buggies.

To help Boikanyo – The Dion Herson Foundation continue its invaluable work in changing the lives of countless children, email letstalk@boikanyo.org.za or visit boikanyo.org.za

Sources: Boikanyo – The Dion Herson Foundation

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The Brighton Beach Beanie Project, which involves elders knitting gifts of love and warmth, was born from a shared desire to make a difference in the lives of children born into harsh circumstances and often lack the most basic necessities.

Durban, South Africa (21 October 2024) – Children born into challenging circumstances are a heartbreaking reality that local police officers run into way too often in the call of duty.

Moved by this, members of the Brighton Beach Police Station in Durban, along with compassionate local senior citizens, have united to form a community-based beanie project.

The Brighton Beach Beanie Project, organised by members of the Brighton Beach Police, has brought together elderly residents from across the eThekwini District who volunteer their time and talents to knit and crochet cosy clothing for these children.

With nimble fingers and hearts full of love, they have poured their souls into each stitch, creating not just garments but symbols of warmth and care.

“These skilled individuals are showcasing their talents in knitting and crocheting by creating beautiful beanies and clothing items as gifts for vulnerable children,” shared Captain Louise Le Roux of Brighton Beach SAPS.

Since its inception, the project has distributed over 1,832 beanies to organisations such as the Wentworth Hospital, Wentworth Victim Friendly Centre, Bluff Assist, Shepherd’s Keep, Journey of Hope, and Isaiah 554 Children’s Sanctuary.

Durban has been unusually cold and wet lately and just last week the beanie project was honoured to gift beautifully knitted newborn baby booties and baby slippers created by the skilled knitters and crocheters to the Wentworth hospital.

“In addition, 185 multiple-sized beanies were also gifted and the project team will continue to receive labours of love ensuring every beanie is homed,” added Le Roux.

Sources: Brighton Beach SAPS

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Afrika Tikkun is empowering and nurturing a new generation of agricultural leaders who are poised to transform the country’s food insecurity crisis.

Johannesburg, South Africa (21 October 2024) – Food insecurity remains a big problem in our country. At Afrika Tikkun, food security isn’t just about providing a meal; it’s about creating sustainable solutions that empower individuals and communities.

Through its agriculture-driven initiatives, the organisation is helping young people reclaim their power by realising the value of planting their own food.

On World Food Day, observed on 16 October, Afrika Tikkun celebrated the success of its Garden-to-Kindergarten (G2K) and Agripreneurship Programmes.

Through the G2K initiative, an understanding of and love for planting vegetables is cultivated for children aged between 2 and 6 years in the Bambanani Childhood Development (ECD) programme. Here, they are also educated about nutrition and the importance of healthy eating.

With a pressing need to address hunger, poverty, and food scarcity in the country, the innovative Agripreneurship Programme, is also equipping young people with the skills and knowledge to become self-sufficient and contribute to their communities’ well-being by completing the 12-month training.

From planting seeds in the garden to managing thriving farms, these young agripreneurs get to learn the art of sustainable agriculture.

Aligned with the 2024 World Food Day theme – Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future – the programme drives positive change by nurturing a new generation of farmers who understand the importance of producing nutritious, affordable and safe food for South African communities.

The Agripreneurship programme is currently operational in Diepsloot, Sasolburg and Empangeni in northern KwaZulu-Natal, with a total of 188 active candidates.

According to Afrika Tikkun, the 2023 graduates have already secured positions within retail stores, managing fruit and vegetable sections, highlighting the success of the programme in integrating young people into the agricultural economy.

With practical training conducted in modern greenhouses, these graduates are now fully equipped to grow, cultivate and supply nutritious food, supporting the broader World Food Day goal of increasing food diversity and availability in local communities.

“This initiative, part of Afrika Tikkun’s Cradle-to-Career 360° philosophy, is about more than just farming – it’s about fostering entrepreneurship and ensuring that young South Africans have the tools they need to thrive in the agricultural sector.

“By learning how to establish their own farms and urban agricultural projects, these young agripreneurs are poised to not only alleviate hunger in their communities but also create sustainable livelihoods for themselves,” said Afrika Tikkun Agriculture CEO Alan Fleming.

As South Africa continues to grapple with the challenges of food insecurity, these young agripreneurs are a beacon of hope. They are producing nutritious, affordable food, reducing reliance on imports, and creating a more resilient food system.

Sources: Afrika Tikkun

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The 2025 Australian Firefighters Calendar is here, and it’s more than just sizzling photos – it’s a powerful force for change, pairing Australia’s bravest heroes with adorable animals to raise millions for life-saving causes across the globe.

Australia (21 October 2023) – The Australian Firefighters Calendar is back for 2025, and it’s bringing the heat once again! This year’s edition promises to be bigger, better, and cuter than ever, with a unique theme that pairs the country’s bravest heroes with some of the most adorable animals you’ve ever seen. From playful puppies to cuddly koalas, these firefighters are showing their softer side while supporting fantastic causes. It’s not just a calendar – it’s a celebration of courage, compassion, and community spirit.

For years, the Australian Firefighters Calendar has captured hearts across the world, and many of our Good Things Guy readers eagerly wait for the announcement of its release. Though we don’t get the calendars physically in South Africa, our annual article is the next best thing!

Since its launch in 1993, the Australian Firefighters Calendar has raised over $3.5 million for charities across Australia and beyond. And 2025 is no different – the calendar will continue supporting vital causes, from wildlife rescues to children fighting cancer. This year, the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital is one of the proud recipients of the calendar’s charity donations, helping rescue and rehabilitate injured wildlife.

As Dr Bree Talbot, Head Wildlife Veterinary Surgeon at the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital, beautifully puts it: “This generous support allows us to continue saving Australian wildlife and making a lasting difference.”

But it’s not just about the pictures – these firefighters have become global conservation ambassadors, using their fame to raise awareness for causes like the protection of Australian wildlife. The 2025 calendar editions feature over 25 firefighters from aviation, military, and urban fire services. Each month reveals heart-warming photos of these heroes with animals like koalas, kittens, and even horses.

There are five different editions this year, so there’s a calendar for every animal lover out there!

With the 2025 Australian Firefighters Calendar, we get a feel-good mix of bravery, kindness, and a whole lot of cuteness. What more could you ask for? Grab a cup of tea, enjoy the pictures, and let’s celebrate these everyday heroes who are making the world a better place, one adorable moment at a time!

To see all our previous Australian Firefighter Calender articles, click here.

Sources: Australian Firefighters Calendar 

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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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It’s almost time for dog lovers in Cape Town to enjoy a day in ‘pawradise’ as Woefie Wandel 2024 approaches to support the Cape of Good Hope SPCA! From walks with fellow dog lovers to an art station just for pooches, food stalls and even pet-friendly photo booths, here’s what’s on the cards:

Green Point, South Africa (20 October 2024) — If a day spent out at a park surrounded by dogs, greenery and fellow dog lovers is your idea of paradise (or should we say, pawradise), then the 2024 Woefie Wandel might just be the next thing you add to your social calendar with immediate effect.

On the one paw, the Woefie Wandel is a big fundraising opportunity for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA whose tireless work for the betterment of Cape animals makes a massive difference every week. On the other, it’s a wagging and wonderful way to connect with animal lovers while letting your dog enjoy a range of pooch-friendly activities!

On the cards for the day set to be hosted at the ever-tranquil Green Point Park are:

• Walkies—two walks, one 1.2km and a 1.9km
• Food Stalls—because what’s a walk without a treat to look forward to?
• Art for Pooches—Yes, your dog has the go-ahead to unleash its inner Pawcasso!
• A pet-friendly Photobooth
• Contests: There will be contests for the Best lookalike dog, the happiest dog and more
• A Pet Pop-up Shop
• A Mobile Clinic—Get those rabies vaccinations and microchipping out of the way on the day!
• A Mini Funfair—So that your human kids can also let their hair down

Last year, Woefie Wandel helped the Cape of Good Hope SPCA raise R50,000 thanks to 600 participants and the many, many four-legged friends present. And if those numbers are anything to go by, hopes are higher than your dog’s leap to catch a frisbee that 2024 will have a marvellous impact.

Details

• When: Sunday, 17 November; gates open at 8 am
• Where: Green Point Park, Cape Town
• Tickets: You can grab a spot for yourself, your dogs and your friend who just loves being around dogs here.

Sources: Cape of Good Hope SPCA 

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Imagine spending the holidays alone, with no visitors and no gifts. For many elderly people residing in old age homes, this is a heartbreaking reality. But, you can help bring them a little cheer this Christmas.

Durban, South Africa (20 October 2024) – Oftentimes, when we talk about spreading the magic and joy of Christmas, it is about children, overlooking that our oldies could also do with some spoils and love too!

Playing their part to make sure our grannies and grandpas in old age homes don’t get left out in the cold, is the Robin Hood Foundation through its annual Bless a Granny & Grandpa campaign.

Every year the campaign fulfils over 2,500 wishes of the elderly people in homes, bringing love, joy and care to those often forgotten.

As the season of giving approaches, the foundation reminds us that giving is not just about donating but more about making a difference.

“For many, the Bless a Granny & Grandpa visits are not just a highlight of their year—it is often the only moment of warmth and connection they experience.

“Imagine, for a moment, receiving just one gift all year, or having only one visitor walk through your door. That is the reality for so many elderly individuals we care for,” the foundation shared.

But this year, you can be the light that brightens their day, by offering a hand that offers not just a present as well as a sense of belonging.

The campaign will bring warmth to 18 old age homes in and around Durban.

“Each visit will be a morning filled with tea, treats, laughter, and, most importantly, the heartfelt gifts that you help provide.”

How to make a wish come true

To make an oldie’s wish come true, all you need to do is make a pledge on how many grannies or grandpas you’d like to buy a Christmas gift for by emailing info@ronbinhoodfoundation.co.za

From there, you will receive an email with the grannies/grandpas’ names, their wishlist, printable tags with details and a delivery date.

Thereafter you can shop for the item(s) to the value of R250-R300 and place it in a gift bag with the tags provided.

Lastly, you can deliver or drop off the gifts at the various Durban drop-off points.

• CGA Agencies (235 Underwood Road, Pinetown)
• Broadway Pharmacy (5 Swapo Road, Durban North)
• Wool ‘n Weave (Lillies Quarter, Old Main Road, Hillcrest)
• Dormehl Phalane Real Estate (8 Old Main Road, Gillits)
• -Washwell Granada Laundry (16 Chartwell Drive, Umhlanga)

For more information contact Charlotte at info@robinhoodfoundation.co.za

Sources: The Robin Hood Foundation

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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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Esther Mahlangu’s new mural is dedicated to the spirit of uBuntu! Planted at a London garden gallery, its larger-than-life stature stands tall amid the greenery, giving Londoners something bright, beautiful, and proudly South African!

London, England (20 October 2024) — After her work enjoyed its fair share of the limelight and celebrity appreciation in the USA, Esther Mahlangu’s new mural is taking up space in London!

At nearly 90-years-young, the acclaimed Ndebele artist continues to share her bold and bright geometric masterpieces with the world. Her new mural, titled ‘Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu’ is an ode to the South African philosophy of uBuntu. In fact, its translation from Ndebele to English reads ‘I am because you are’.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Esther Mahlangu (@esthermahlanguart)

The new mural has been ‘planted’ at Serpentine Gallery’s North Garden based on West Carriage Drive, where it boasts the artist’s immediately recognisable patterning and confident style. Painted across 16 wooden panels, the energy of the new mural is larger than life, much like the uBuntu ethos.

Simultaneously, Esther Mahlangu is also the talk of London’s art scene in a different part of the city. At a solo exhibition at the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, Esher’s work brought an immediate rush of vibrance and life to the walls of Melrose Gallery in the West Wing!

 

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A post shared by Esther Mahlangu (@esthermahlanguart)

Meanwhile, in another creative news piece that made us feel proudly South African, artist Jake Michael Singer has been given the opportunity to represent our country through sculpture at a prestigious event overlooking the magnificent Pyramids of Giza! Jake’s sculpture, We Will Meet Again in the Sky’ is a must-see, and you can learn more about it 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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Matthew and Nicholas McGregor launched the Kesho Collective as a way to unite South Africans in London and raise funds for charity in SA.

London, United Kingdom (18 October 2024) – Nicholas McGregor and Matthew McGregor, cousins from South Africa now living in the United Kingdom, have found a great way to unite the South African community in London, while still supporting charitable causes in South Africa. The duo are creating meaningful impact through their non-profit Kesho Collective, which was founded earlier this year.

Living in the UK, the cousins realised they could harness the green and gold community and the Ubuntu that runs deep within every South African’s to give back to their selected charities the Mzansi’s Rugby Academy and the Rosey’s Crèche and Daycare.

Through the hosting of events, many themed around the exciting rugby games our Springboks play, Nicholas and Matthew are able to collect donations and raise funds from event proceeds that go directly to the charities. They have had great success so far, having hosted two sold-out events so far and a third on the card for November.

These events provide South Africans living in the UK with the chance to celebrate their culture, support their team, and give back to their home country. It’s a reminder that no matter how far away they are, South Africans can still come together to make a difference.

How It Works

Kesho Collective raises funds primarily through monthly donations and events. Their passion for South Africa is echoed in their love for the Springboks, and they have harnessed that enthusiasm to create a community of rugby-loving South Africans living in London. Through highly successful screening events for Springbok matches, they have brought people together, sold out venues, and raised substantial amounts for charity.

They have an upcoming event for the Springboks v England rugby game on the 16th of November 2024, should you be keen to join, you can find out more here. Note the funds for the event will go directly to the Mzansi’s Rugby Academy and Rosey’s Crèche.

The Mzansi’s Rugby Academy is based in Port Alfred and supports local children through rugby and education. The academy is run by Barry Scharneck and Alex Floyd-Douglas. They work with teens from the age of 13-18 by providing them with rugby training, transport to fixtures, and educational support. Soon, they will have a fully-fledge programme for women’s rugby too.

For the youth to take part in the academy, they need to show academic interest by keeping their grades up. This ensures that they get a balanced academic and sporting education.

“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved so far, particularly being able to fund and support a full rugby sevens festival for youth in the Eastern Cape with Mzansi’s Rugby Academy. It’s amazing to give these young athletes visibility on SuperSport Schools, and we truly believe in the power of sport to uplift communities and help South Africa reach its full potential.” – Matthew McGregor

Rosey Mbikwana, runs the Rosey’s Crèche and Daycare which is based in Mthatha. The daycare provides a safe space and meals for children while their parents are at work. Rosey’s ultimate goal is to offer these children better educational facilities.

Through the Kesho Collective, they are fundraising to build a new classroom for the crèche, with the hope of completing it for the new school year.

“We’re incredibly proud to be a part of such life-changing initiatives,” said Nicholas McGregor. “Through the support of our London community, we’re able to send vital funds to South Africa and make a real difference where it matters most.”

For more information about Kesho Collective or to get involved, visit keshocollective.com

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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The Langkloof Orphanage has undergone a remarkable transformation, breathing new life into the sanctuary for AIDS orphans and vulnerable children.

Drakensberg, South Africa (18 October 2024) – Situated amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Northern Drakensberg, the Langkloof Orphanage, a sanctuary for AIDS orphans and vulnerable children, recently underwent a remarkable transformation.

Established in 2001 as a refuge for 50 AIDS orphans, the orphanage has evolved into a thriving space, complete with a fully-equipped kitchen, electricity, running water, flushing toilets, a creche, and a primary school.

The recent refurbishment has breathed new life into the orphanage’s facilities. Once characterised by worn-out walls and peeling paint, the space now exudes a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.

During the highly anticipated unveiling in the first week of October 2024, joy and excitement filled the air as the children and caregivers of the home explored their newly renovated surroundings.

Other sustainable initiatives were introduced to the new and improved orphanage. These include the establishment of a hydroponic system to grow fresh herbs and vegetables, the provision of two daily meals for 55 children, supporting staff and encouraging community action by appealing for donations towards the orphanage’s operations.

The Langkloof Orphanage stands as a symbol of resilience, compassion, and the power of community. With the continued support of Little Switzerland Resort, its main benefactor and Touching Dreams, the non-profit that sponsored of the renovations, this safe space will continue to touch many lives.

“When I recently took over the management of Langkloof, it was clear there was a lot of maintenance required. I reached out to Little Switzerland’s new general manager, Gerhard van den Heever, for support and he quickly got Touching Dreams and various hotel team members on board to work on a full refurbishment,” says Maria Mkhonza, Langkloof’s caretaker and principal.

Mkhonza expressed her gratitude to the maintenance lead, Justin Liebenberg, who coordinated everything; none of this would have been possible without all his hard work. Gerhard, and his assistant property custodian, Shalom Mashiri, were also actively involved.

“It’s been amazing to see the dedication from this group of people over the last few months,” says Mkhonza.

“Our support of Langkloof Orphanage is a perfect example of the kind of work we aim to do as an organisation and aligns with our mission at Dream Hotels and Resorts to have a positive impact on the communities in which our properties operate,” says Chris Godenir, General Manager of Dream Hotels and Resorts’ Peninsula All-Suite Hotel and Touching Dreams Ambassador.

Sources: Supplied

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