South African powerhouses Professors Salim and Quarraisha Abdool Karim have been honoured with the prestigious Lasker~Bloomberg Public Service Award for their groundbreaking work in HIV prevention, proving once again that South Africans are changing the world for the better.

Global (03 October 2024) – South Africans continue to shine on the world stage, making remarkable strides across various fields – from science to public health, innovation to education. This spirit of perseverance and excellence is evident in the latest recognition of two of South Africa’s most dedicated champions of health and science: Professor Salim S. Abdool Karim and his wife, Professor Quarraisha Abdool Karim.

Together, they’ve just been honoured with the 2024 Lasker~Bloomberg Public Service Award, a significant recognition in the world of public health.

The Lasker~Bloomberg Public Service Award is no ordinary accolade. Often referred to as the “American Nobel,” it honours individuals whose work has had an extraordinary impact on the health of the public. The 2024 award was granted to the Abdool Karims for their groundbreaking work in HIV prevention and treatment, recognising the life-saving interventions they have introduced, particularly within the context of heterosexual HIV transmission.

Their efforts have transformed the landscape of public health in South Africa and have also rippled across the globe, influencing AIDS programs and public health policies worldwide.

“In accepting this Lasker award, we are recognising the power of global solidarity for global impact, which has been deeply imbued in our work on HIV prevention and treatment over the past 35 years. While we provided the initial evidence that antiretrovirals prevent sexual HIV transmission as PrEP, today PrEP is used in over 100 countries. If a patient with HIV and Tuberculosis co-infection anywhere in the world, including here in the US, is being treated according to WHO or CDC guidelines, that patient’s treatment is based on research conducted in South Africa by a multi-country CAPRISA team,” Salim S. Abdool Karim said in his acceptance speech. 

“In a world wracked by division, conflict and anti-immigration hatred, this award is a sober reminder of how science reminds us of our shared humanity across the globe. We stand here today because of the power of global solidarity and partnerships in science that have saved tens of thousands of lives and helped make the world a better place for generations to come.”

The story of Quarraisha and Salim Abdool Karim is one of resilience and passion. Growing up under the harsh realities of apartheid, they experienced firsthand how discrimination and societal inequities can destroy opportunities for health and education. Despite these challenges, they persevered, driven by a deep-seated belief that science has the power to change lives.

“Our lived experience of growing up in apartheid South Africa, has had a profound effect on how we see our role as scientists. As young anti-apartheid activists involved the daily struggle for freedom, human rights and justice, we know the importance of human dignity and inclusiveness in all facets of life including in our scientific endeavours. We also benefited from the wisdom and guidance of several mentors who were both great scientists and deeply committed anti-apartheid activists. We remain eternally grateful to them for their guidance and advice, which reinforced for us the notion that science in service of humanity and social justice are two sides of the same coin. In particular, we are grateful to President Nelson Mandela who shaped our perspective on the role of scientists in serving society, as he eloquently outlined in the Foreword he wrote in our book on AIDS.,” says Quarraisha Abdool Karim. 

Their work has always been about more than scientific advancement. For years, they have championed policies that go beyond the laboratory, working to make sure that those who are most vulnerable to HIV have access to the life-saving treatments and preventative measures they need. This holistic approach has saved countless lives and also helped build South Africa’s scientific capacity. In many ways, the Abdool Karims have been essential in positioning the country as a leader in global health.

Their combined efforts are not just South Africa’s pride but a global inspiration. Through their work, millions of people have received the care they deserve, and through their advocacy, public health systems worldwide have been strengthened.

Quarraisha Abdool Karim, in reflecting on the future, said, “We are in a tumultuous moment globally—a time when science is needed more than ever to tackle several of the world’s most complex challenges—pandemics, climate change, man-made famines in the midst of conflicts and widening inequalities within and between countries. Our hope lies in the ubiquity of science, on it transcending political and cultural barriers as the universal language to build bridges between the peoples of this world. Our interconnectedness and shared vulnerabilities underscore the importance of working together as scientists in service of humanity to generate knowledge and innovations to make the world a better place for everyone.”

Moments like these remind us just how powerful South African contributions can be on the world stage.

As South Africans, we can be proud knowing that our country is home to such influential figures who are reshaping global health for the better. The future is bright, and the impact of the Abdool Karims’ work will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Sources: 2024 Lasker~Bloomberg Public Service Award

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.

The post South African Professors Awarded American Nobel Prize! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

South Africa’s beloved Ina Paarman’s food products just made a star-studded cameo in Netflix’s number-one global series, The Perfect Couple—a proud moment for homegrown talent shining on the world stage!

Global (27 September 2024)–  It’s always thrilling when something proudly South African makes waves on the global stage, and this time, it’s happened in a way that has us beaming with pride!

Netflix’s new series, The Perfect Couple, has taken the world by storm, claiming the top spot on the trending charts, and there’s a delightful local surprise within it! A South African brand has made a cameo in the world’s number-one show—none other than the much-loved Ina Paarman’s range of products!

The Perfect Couple has been causing a stir globally, currently sitting at the top of Reelgood’s trending list. As the series skyrockets in popularity, the Good Things Guy team couldn’t resist jumping in to watch what the buzz was about—and we’re hooked! Set against a captivating backdrop of mystery, romance, and intrigue, the show had us binge-watching till the end.

And then came the magic moment! While most were glued to the plot twists, we spotted something unmistakably South African in the show’s kitchen scenes—Ina Paarman’s food products!

Seeing a local brand pop up in the middle of a hit global series was like finding a hidden gem. Ina Paarman’s products, renowned for their quality and rich flavours, unexpectedly appeared on an international screen, adding a dash of homegrown flavour.

Ina Paarman shared the photo to their Facebook page, “We were so delightfully surprised to spot a few of our seasonings and spice mixes in episode 3 of the popular Netflix series, “The Perfect Couple”. The Perfect Couple of Spices indeed!”

Hulle weet nie wat ons weet nie (they don’t know what we know)! Our products are champions too!

But how did this incredible brand come to be? Ina Paarman’s journey is an inspiring one. It all started in her kitchen in 1982, where Ina hosted cooking courses that grew so popular that she began bottling her delicious sauces and dressings for eager clients. Her philosophy has always been to create food with heart, using the finest local ingredients and ensuring that only the best reaches our tables. Over four decades later, Ina Paarman’s products have become a staple in kitchens across South Africa and beyond (like the kitchen in The Perfect Couple).

There’s something undeniably special about seeing a local brand represent South Africa on such a massive stage. It’s a reminder of the incredible talent, creativity, and drive that our country has to offer. We’re beyond proud, and this moment proves that South African products are standing strong on the global stage.

You can watch the trailer below, for more information about the show.

Sources: Netflix | Ina Paarman

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.

The post South African Brand Shines in Netflix’s #1 Global Series! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

There’s a beloved hadeda remix back on the scene, and South Africans are grooving and giggling simultaneously!

South Africa (12 August 2024) — Ah yes, the sound of a hadeda. It’s the sound that kickstarts many South African days; it startlingly welcomes us back home after a trip aboard and even warns us of trouble (or at the very least, neighbours) nearby. The hadeda’s signature cry is a sound that South Africans know, as well as the voices of our family members—so much so that the bird might as well move in or take on national bird status at this point.

Its call might not be music to our ears most of the time, but it is one of the most recognisable sounds of our country and a reminder of home. So, is it really any surprise that the beloved Hadeda remix is back on the scene?

The hadeda remix or ‘Hadeda Song’ has given South Africans all the reasons to groove and giggle, often at the same time. It’s a prime example of South African humour—few other nations would take a sound so nationally frustrating and turn it into a hit for the sake of comedy, just as we’ve done with other significant South African moments like the ‘When People Zol’ song. But when you’re South African and know how to sling a tune or two, it’s something of a must to turn frustrations into something entertaining!

Taking on an amapiano beat, the hadeda remix (initially shared by Thozi Music in 2021) has toes tapping and comment sections filling up with love for South Africa and South African humour. In this way, the song has become somewhat synonymous with South Africa’s unique approach to resilience—turning struggle into something smile-worthy. 

@winonaaa.ca SA is special id get bored if i left #winonaaaca ♬ original sound – BIG LOVE

@aqeelahsulaiman_ Our National bird has a remix #fyp #foryou #aqeelahsulaiman #southafricatiktok ♬ original sound – BIG LOVE

The hadeda may not exactly be the songbird we chose, but it’s the bird that chose us. And, South Africa simply wouldn’t be South Africa without a hadeda in the family photo album.

Sources: GTG; TikTok 

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.

The post Hilarious Hadeda Remix Has South Africa Grooving and Giggling  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The Coconuts sitcom is having a moment on social media, uniting South Africans in laughter. One character in particular, Patience (actress Shaleen Tobin), is finally getting her flowers, thanks to the renewed interest!

South Africa (11 August 2024)—It’s been over a decade since The Coconuts hit the screens. But, thanks to TikTok, the Coconuts is having a massive moment once again as South Africans unite in laughter. With the revived interest in the show, love and adoration have made a beeline for one of the show’s main characters—Patience Hlatshwayo (actress Shaleen Tobin) in what can only be described as the actress finally getting her flowers all these years later.

A blast from the past, the Coconuts aired in 2008 and aimed to tackle cultural differences in South Africa as a comedy. But undoubtedly, the character who filled many of our childhoods with the most laughter was Patience—a character who had to navigate life after she was turned into a white woman.

Played by Shaleen, Patience was known for zinging one-liners, impeccable comedic timing and, of course, the ability to connect with all audiences.

After snippets from the show started to go viral on TikTok, comment sections began to overflow with shoutouts to Shaleen, with many sharing that she gave us all the best childhoods.

As one user, Em, put it perfectly:

“It’s so fun that you’re getting your flowers, finally. I think SA actors missed out on a lot of the social media hype they deserved at the time. You’re an icon!! Your work brought so much joy.”

All the positive attention inspired Shaleen to get active on social media and share her immense appreciation for all the kindness toward her.

“I’m absolutely blown away, I’m quite emotional about it,” she shared in a video. “Thank you beautiful people, thank you my South Africans, thank you for the love for sharing your thoughts and your experiences. I am just over the flipping moon, I’ve loved it! Thank you!” Shaleen shared.

@shaeleen.tobinsetzkorn Replying to @ reading these comments have made my week. I am walking around with a massive smile on my face. I am still figuring out this Tiktok thing so please bare with me – I am learning #southafrica #thecoconuts #southafricatiktok ♬ original sound – Shaeleen (Patience) Tobin-Setz

Now, Shaleen has brought Patience back to life on TikTok, and you can keep up with her here!

Sources: TikTok

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.

The post The Coconuts’ Patience Finally Gets Her Flowers Thanks to TikTok! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Stellenbosch University immunologist Professor Clive Gray received the prestigious Harry Oppenheimer Fellowship Award for his groundbreaking research on maternal and child health, particularly in the context of HIV.

Western Cape, South Africa (09 July 2024) – Recognising and supporting the tireless efforts of dedicated researchers is crucial for progress. Today, we proudly celebrate a significant milestone in the scientific community: Stellenbosch University’s esteemed immunologist, Professor Clive Gray, was recently awarded the prestigious Harry Oppenheimer Fellowship Award.

This accolade highlights the profound impact of his research and the importance of advancing knowledge for societal benefit.

The Harry Oppenheimer Fellowship Award is bestowed upon scholars of the highest calibre who engage in cutting-edge, internationally significant research with profound implications. Accompanied by a R2.5-million grant, this award supports initiatives that push the boundaries of knowledge and contribute to teaching, research, and development in South Africa and beyond.

This year, the award celebrates Professor Gray’s remarkable contributions to understanding the human placenta and its critical role in maternal and child health.

“Professor Gray’s research has the potential to revolutionise our understanding of how the human placenta functions and, from that, uncover new pathways to improving mother-child health. We are excited to watch this story unfold, as we have witnessed the stories of previous Harry Oppenheimer Fellows change the game in fields from biochemistry and biology to engineering, history, and zoology to mention a few,” said Rebecca Oppenheimer, chair of the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust (OMT).

Professor Gray’s work is poised to shed light on crucial aspects of maternal and child health, particularly in the context of HIV. His research aims to uncover predictive markers of adverse birth events, such as premature birth and low birth weight, which can have lasting impacts on a child’s development. By exploring how diseases like HIV affect placental function and maternal health, Professor Gray’s findings could pave the way for new strategies to manage these risks and improve outcomes.

“Receiving this award is very meaningful,” said Professor Gray. “It’s recognition of the work that I and my research group have been doing over many years. That OMT acknowledges the importance of what we do is very gratifying and rewarding.”

Despite significant advancements in antiretroviral treatments for preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission, challenges remain. Babies born to HIV-positive mothers often face health issues such as stunted growth, increased susceptibility to infections, and learning difficulties. Professor Gray’s research has revealed a critical condition known as maternal vascular malperfusion in these women, which is linked to poor placental blood vessel development and associated risks.

“Our work is niche, laboratory-based research using sophisticated techniques and tools. We need to know how diseases such HIV in pregnant women interferes with the growth of the placenta and how this, in turn, impacts adverse birth outcomes and disrupts maternal health. These adverse outcomes have a devastating effect on South African society, where impaired child and maternal health is linked with deprived early childhood development,” Professor Gray explained.

For the first time, Professor Gray’s research has established a connection between long-term antiretroviral treatment and premature births, identifying a specific molecule in the placenta responsible for poor blood vessel formation. This groundbreaking discovery will direct the focus of the awarded grant towards validating these findings and exploring their broader implications.

Another vital component of Professor Gray’s project is building South Africa’s scientific research capacity. By involving masters and doctoral students in his work, he aims to nurture the next generation of scientific leaders.

“I have over 25 years’ experience in training students in immunology and laboratory techniques. I will use this award to further train the next generation of scientific leaders, while building a greater capacity to improve mother and child health,” he shared.

The multidisciplinary nature of the project, involving collaborations with HIV clinicians, cardiologists, immunologists, virologists, and statisticians from Stellenbosch University, the University of Cape Town, and the University of Surrey, highlights the comprehensive approach needed to tackle these complex health issues.

Stellenbosch University’s leadership also expressed their pride in Professor Gray’s achievements. Professor Elmi Muller, dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, lauded his seminal research, noting its significant impact on HIV immunology and maternal health.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Wim de Villiers emphasised the global importance of Gray’s work and its potential to transform public health.

“We are delighted to add Professor Gray to our Harry Oppenheimer Fellows, all of whom have contributed to the advancement of knowledge in South Africa and beyond. Research capacity development is central to the Trust’s commitment to supporting academic excellence,” Oppenheimer added.

This recognition is a powerful reminder of the incredible potential within our scientific community and the profound impact that supporting such work can have on society.

Congrats Prof!

Sources: Stellenbosch University | Professor Clive Gray | Harry Oppenheimer Fellowship Award

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.

The post Stellenbosch Immunologist Wins Prestigious Harry Oppenheimer Fellowship! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The Springboks secured a thrilling 27-20 victory over Ireland in Pretoria, marking their first win against the Irish since 2016, with standout performances and strategic plays that electrified the home crowd.

Pretoria, South Africa (07 July 2024) – In a thrilling rugby match, the Springboks triumphed over Ireland with a score of 27-20 at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria, marking their first win against the Irish in four attempts since 2016.

This victory in the Castle Lager Incoming Series opener showcased the resilience and skill of the South African team, witnessed by an electrified crowd of 50,066 spectators.

The Springboks kicked off the match with energy and precision, quickly taking control. A beautifully orchestrated play saw the Boks keeping the ball through several phases, varying their attack angles. Pieter-Steph du Toit’s powerful run on the right flank drew in defenders, creating space for Jesse Kriel on the left. With a final pass from Siya Kolisi, Kurt-Lee Arendse darted inside two defenders to score the first try. Handre Pollard’s conversion set the tone for an exhilarating game.

Despite a shaky restart that gave Ireland a chance to retaliate, the Springboks’ defence held firm. Ireland managed to score their first points with a penalty goal from Jack Crowley, but the Boks quickly regained momentum. A series of penalties against the Irish allowed Pollard to extend the lead with two penalty goals, showcasing the Boks’ strategic prowess and relentless pressure.

The game saw its share of drama and unforced errors, particularly in the second half. Ireland’s James Lowe scored after a well-timed inside pass, narrowing the lead. However, Pollard’s missed long-range effort was a rare slip in an otherwise dominant performance by the home side.

The Bomb Squad made their entrance in the 49th minute, with Malcolm Marx, Gerhard Steenekamp, Vincent Koch, Salmaan Moerat, RG Snyman, and Marco Van Staden stepping in to maintain the intensity. Although they conceded a scrum penalty, the Boks’ defence remained resolute, fending off Ireland’s attacks.

The game reignited with a spectacular play by Cheslin Kolbe. After Lowe’s attempt to keep a Pollard touch finder in play, Kolbe seized the moment, kicking the ball ahead into the in-goal area and winning the race to score. The try, confirmed after a lengthy TMO review, was converted by Pollard, boosting the Boks’ lead to 20-8.

The final quarter of the match was a nail-biting affair. Kurt-Lee Arendse received a yellow card, reducing the Boks to 14 men. Ireland capitalized on this advantage, with Conor Murray scoring from an inside pass, reducing the deficit. However, the Springboks responded with a penalty try from a demolished Irish scrum, pushing the lead to 27-13.

Ireland’s Ryan Baird scored with two minutes left, but it was too late to overturn the Boks’ lead. The match concluded with a spilt pass from Ireland, sealing a well-deserved victory for the Springboks.

This victory against the second-ranked team in the world is a significant achievement for the Springboks, demonstrating their skill, determination, and ability to perform under pressure. The fans at Loftus Versfeld were treated to a game filled with thrilling moments, showcasing the best of South African rugby.

Sources: Springboks | SA Rugby 

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.

The post Springboks Triumph Over Ireland in Thrilling Pretoria Clash appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Local band GoodLuck have been the soundtrack of so many good memories in South Africa, and now South Africa got to be part of one of the band’s best memories yet—their baby gender reveal on stage!

Kirstenbosch, South Africa (22 March 2024) — South Africa’s baby gender reveal game has just levelled up after local band (and feel-good music favourite) GoodLuck put on a show that will probably be replayed for their future family for many years to come.

GoodLuck knows a thing or two about putting on a great show, not just in South Africa but around the world. But over the weekend, it wasn’t just about stage presence or toe-tapping music (at least, not entirely). Instead, there was another kind of presence to be celebrated—that of baby GoodLuck.

The band’s Jules Harding and Ben Peters are expecting their first child together!

Come June, Baby GoodLuck (AKA Little Lucky Bean) will be welcomed by their new family and fans worldwide. What made the news even more of a pearl-crushing moment (in the best way) was that Ben and Jules’ romance was a well-kept secret until early February.

“Ben and I have been together for 15 wonderful years…please don’t fall off your chair,” wrote Jules in revealing the duo’s close-kept relationship. “We never wanted to hide it, we just were never particularly public abiut it…and I guess we were conscious of trying to keep our relationship a bit off the radar. We always wanted our music to be the focus, and we felt that we could build our lives in the background…and let me tell you, what a journey it has been!” 

Beautifully, she added:

“Quietly and without shouting it from the rooftops…We built this band on a foundation of love. The very real and raw kind, that is passionate and creative, but also feisty and stubborn…”

“We have worked together, travelled together, played together. made music together, dreamt together and driven each other crazy…but ultimately we have been able to call each other home. I could have never asked for a more incredible partner in this band and in this life.

“As we enter this new chapter with our little one, we are pretty nervous and uncertain about the challenges that lie ahead. But we are also giddy with excitement to be bringing a new soul into this wild, wonderful world!”

If you’ve touched as many hearts through ears as GoodLuck has, you know there is only one way to share something as special as the baby’s gender and that’s on stage.

At the Kirstenbosch Summer concert on Sunday, to a live audience of 5000 people, Baby GoodLuck’s gender reveal lit up the stage, largely thanks to a fan vote that encouraged the magic, and what a moment to witness:

Take a Look at the Iconic Moment:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by GoodLuck (@goodlucklive)

Sources: Darryn Lee; 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.

The post GoodLuck’s Baby Gender Reveal was Nothing Short of Iconic! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Despite Donald Ramphadi and Kgothatso Montjane facing disappointment for their singles events, hope is still hot on the courts for the pair ahead of their doubles duals at the Australian Open:

Australia (26 January 2024)—South Africa has faced some highs blown from Australia in the world of tennis, but hope is still hot on the courts for Donald Ramphadi and Kgothatso Montjane as they prepare for their Australian Open doubles duals.

Llyod Harris’s nudge into qualifying for the Aus Open was a big high for Team South Africa. However, the pro player only made it as far as the first-round match earlier this month, before facing a defeat that saw him out for the count.

Wheelchair tennis stars Donald Ramphadi, and Kgothtaso Montjane had strong streaks in their singles events up until the Melbourne Park semi-finals this week, where both faced the final bell. Donald went up Sam Schroder while Kgothatso had to go against her doubles partner, Yui Kamiji.

However, the pair are still ready for action and have a chance to earn doubles titles as the Open progresses, which is much-welcomed news for both players and their supporters.

Both have brought home numerous titles before; some of which were etched in the history books for their significance (like the time Kgothatso became the first African woman to win a title at the NEC Wheelchair Singles Masters and the ITF Wheelchair Doubles Masters, or when Donald became the first South African (able-bodied or adaptive athlete) to win a Grand Slam title for the country in decades).

Let’s kick into gear and give them all the support they so deserve!

Sources: Tennis South Africa

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.

The post Hope is Still Hot on The Courts for Ramphadi and Montjane appeared first on Good Things Guy.

As the days wind down until Bryoni Govender represents South Africa on the Miss Universe stage, one of the most exciting parts of her Miss Universe journey has been revealed—her national costume!

South Africa (01 November 2023) — As Miss South Africa runner-up Bryoni Govender prepares to represent our country on the glittering Miss Universe stage in El Salvador, one of the most exciting parts of the preparation process has recently been revealed—the national costume.

Every year, the Miss South Africa representative plays muse to a designer’s imaginings as threads flow, meshed with symbolism and South African story-telling.

Bryoni’s 2023 national costume encompasses visually captivating elements of South Africa’s story; spotlighting Indian heritage amid other proudly South African, symbolic notes.

Dubbed the African-Indian interpretation of South Africa, the Sari-style gown is adorned with Zulu beading in a Ndebele print against the backdrop of vibrant green with yellow accents to represent the green and gold that courses through our veins.

Designed by Casey Jeanne Walters, the mind behind the piece shared that when she was first asked to create the national costume for Bryoni, she was wonderfully surprised.

“We deliberately didn’t want an ostentatious, gaudy and over-the-top national costume for South Africa. But rather a high-fashion couture version that allows Bryoni to shine,” shared Casey Jean. 

“It’s not flashy, it’s not huge but it’s REPRESENTATIVE and THAT is what a national costume should be about. No gimmicks,” the designer added. 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by CASEY JEANNE WALTERS (@designer_casey_jeanne)

In its vibrant dose of subtle silhouette, Bryoni’s gown speaks to so many factors that resonate with what it means to be South African.

Our nation isn’t flashy, but we have a wealth of vibrance that’s even more apparent in our simplicity.

We are a mosaic of cultures that, like the beadwork, become even more beautiful when threaded together.

And, like the gown’s trail, when South Africans rise, a beautiful, bold and fierce display truly comes alive.

The 72nd Miss Universe pageant will take place on 18 November 2023.

Sources: Various (Linked Above)

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

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.

The post Why Bryoni Govender’s National Costume For Miss Universe is Iconic appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Didn’t think it was possible for SA and Ireland to unite after that rugby match? Well, through the power of music, a little local singer with both South African and Irish roots is doing exactly that, and she’s heading to the finals of the Eurovision Juniors! Have a listen:

Global (04 October 2023) — If you didn’t think it’d be possible for South Africa and Ireland to unite after that Rugby World Cup match, you might want to tune in to the sounds of rising starlet Niamh Beatrix Smith, AKA the little Adele.

Niamh is a young South African expat who now calls Wicklow, Ireland home. Through her gift of song, she has both Irish and South African music lovers rooting for the same team — hers.

With Afrikaans as her mother tongue and an affinity for Irish twang, Niamh’s music marries cultures, messages and melodies.

Her journey as a performer has seen her receive praise from both South Africa and Ireland; having earned her SA colours, featuring on the Pretoria FM charts for her cover of Die Heuwels Fantasties ‘Klein Tambotieboom’, teaming up with the South African Youth Choir for an upcoming song as well as her biggest claim to fame: getting the opportunity to represent Ireland for the Eurovision Juniors.

Of the latter, Niamh has made a dazzling mark on the competition by making it all the way through to the competition’s finals. But, within listening to the first few seconds of any of her songs, it’s not rocket science as to why.

Of her green roots in different shades, Niamh shares:

“I am so grateful for the support coming from both South Africa & Ireland for my efforts to use music for good. How lucky can a girl be…I call two incredible countries ‘home’…..my blood is green!”

But, this little songstress also sings with purpose; supporting organisations like Reach for a Dream and Make-A-Wish Ireland and the UK through her song streams.

May the luck of the Irish take her all the way to her dreams and her South African spirit keep her determined to achieve them!

Sources: Various (Linked Above)

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

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.

The post ‘Little Adele’ Niamh Beatrix Smith Has SA and Ireland Rooting for the Same Team appeared first on Good Things Guy.