#AwesomeEasternCape Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/awesomeeasterncape/ Fri, 18 Oct 2024 12:24:02 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-gtg_favicon-32x32.png #AwesomeEasternCape Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/awesomeeasterncape/ 32 32 White Cane Day March Empowers Visually Impaired Youth; Youngster Gains Sight https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/white-cane-day-march-empowers-visually-impaired-youth-youngster-gains-sight/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/white-cane-day-march-empowers-visually-impaired-youth-youngster-gains-sight/#respond Sun, 20 Oct 2024 06:00:11 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=134186

In two doses of good news from the Bona uBuntu Programme, the White Cane Day March united communities who walked in solidarity for visually impaired youth while a four-year-old gained...

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In two doses of good news from the Bona uBuntu Programme, the White Cane Day March united communities who walked in solidarity for visually impaired youth while a four-year-old gained his sight thanks to their help in getting him the most important surgery of his life!

 

Kwadwesi, South Africa (20 October 2024) — The streets of Kwadwesi teemed with enthusiasm and energy earlier this month as 263 learners, educators and community members banded together for the annual White Cane Day Youth March!

Hosted by the Bona uBuntu Programme, which teamed up with Khanynisa School for the Visually Impaired and Ilima Lombi—Kamva, the event brought together community members in the Eastern Cape to raise awareness about the challenges visually impaired individuals face and to promote a culture of accessibility and inclusion.

The Bona uBuntu Programme is an NGO that supports empowerment and education for visually impaired children in the Eastern Cape, while White Cane Day is observed globally and celebrates the independence of people who are blind or visually impaired. A big part of this independence comes from accessibility tools, hence its name—the white cane!

“This event is more than just a march; it’s a movement towards a future where visually impaired youth can thrive without limitations,” commented Robyn Fick, the Programme Coordinator at Bona uBuntu.

“We [walked] for their independence, for their right to access education, and for a community that embraces inclusivity.”

The day also featured musical performances from the Khanyisa School Choir, representatives from special schools, and mainstream schools in Kwadwesi, which were a true melting pot of solidarity.

In other uplifting news from the Bona uBuntu Programme, four-year-old ‘Ollie’ (not the child’s real name) has received cataract surgery that was needed to restore his sight after years of disappointment for his family due to a lack of resources.

Bona uBuntu helped the little one get an appointment with the ophthalmology department at Cecilia Makiwane Hospital in East London within a week, and soon thereafter, he underwent the surgery that gave him his sight back!


Sources: Supplied; Bona uBuntu Programme 
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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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University of Fort Hare Librarian Honoured with Prestigious LIASA Award https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/librarian-honoured-prestigious-liasa-award/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/librarian-honoured-prestigious-liasa-award/#respond Sun, 13 Oct 2024 12:00:03 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=133489

Her love for books and her innovative approach to librarianship have earned the University of Fort Hare’s Sibongiseni Mrwashu the well-deserved recognition of Librarian of the Year.   Eastern Cape,...

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Her love for books and her innovative approach to librarianship have earned the University of Fort Hare’s Sibongiseni Mrwashu the well-deserved recognition of Librarian of the Year.

 

Eastern Cape, South Africa (13 October 2024) – It is so refreshing to see that even in the midst of our dynamic digital age of tech and AI, literature, libraries and their dedicated librarians are still celebrated.

Honoured for her significant contributions to the University of Fort Hare’s library and information science field was dedicated librarian Sibongiseni Mrwashu.

Her unwavering commitment to serving her community and her innovative approach to librarianship have earned her the prestigious LIASA Librarian of the Year Award.

Mrwashu, whose journey in librarianship is marked by her profound love for books, said:

“The recognition I have received is not solely a result of my personal efforts; it is also a testament to the exceptional support and collaboration I have received from the broader library community, mentors, and colleagues.”

“It is even more significant to be the first recipient of this prestigious award from the Eastern Cape, as it underscores the influence of our collective efforts in promoting the role of libraries in education, access to information, and community empowerment.”

Mrwashu has made significant strides in her professional career since graduating in 2013 with a BSc in Environmental Science and a PG Diploma in Library and Information Science from the University of Cape Town (UCT).

According to the university, her nomination for the award was driven by her collaborative spirit and her determination to foster a “let’s get things done” attitude.

The award, sponsored by Universal Knowledge Software, is granted by peers in recognition of the achievements and accomplishments of inspiring and exceptional public, academic, school and special librarians.

Dedicated to fostering a love for learning, Mrwashu has introduced a range of innovative initiatives, including an e-suggestion box, a Discussion Room booking system, and a reading circle for junior staff, all designed to promote continuous learning and innovation.

Looking ahead, the innovative librarian is determined to enhance user experience at the library, expand access to resources, and cultivate a culture of continuous learning.


Sources: University of Fort Hare
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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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Springbok Star Makazole Mapimpi Inspires Young Rugby Players at Dale College https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/makazole-mapimpi-inspires-young-rugby-players-dale-college/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/makazole-mapimpi-inspires-young-rugby-players-dale-college/#respond Mon, 07 Oct 2024 06:00:07 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=132664

Springbok wing Makazole Mapimpi’s resilience has seen him overcome loss, poverty and much adversity to become the rugby star he is today. He recently shared some wise words with the...

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Springbok wing Makazole Mapimpi’s resilience has seen him overcome loss, poverty and much adversity to become the rugby star he is today. He recently shared some wise words with the young rugby players at Dale College, undoubtedly leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

 

Eastern Cape, South Africa (07 October 2024) – It’s not every day that you get to bask in the presence of a Springbok hero and have him share the highs and lows of his journey that have shaped him into becoming a nationally celebrated rugby player.

Sharing some of his amazing stories of true resilience was Springbok wing Makazole Mapimpi with the young players of the rugby squad at Dale College in Qonce.

During a visit to the school, Mapimpi, who hails from Tsholomnqa village in rural East London, spoke about his journey and how his constant belief in “nothing is impossible” took him to bigger avenues.

Raised by his grandmother as his mother, brother, and sister had all tragically passed on by the time he was a household name, Mapimpi’s background has been a humble and challenging one any Springbok has had to endure to succeed.

Enthralled by his personal testimony and willpower, the promising rugby players of Dale College got inspired and realised that success could still be achieved despite being dealt a difficult life.

“Mapimpi’s success and his humility never end and truly continue to shine through.

“Dale prides itself in creating and offering opportunities that cater for the holistic development of the learners,” the school said.


Sources: Dale College
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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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New R1 Million Educational Centre Opens at Charles Duna Primary School https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/educational-centre-opens-charles-duna-primary-school/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/educational-centre-opens-charles-duna-primary-school/#respond Fri, 04 Oct 2024 08:00:10 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=132579

Named after the recently retired principal, Miss Sume, the newly unveiled Sume Centre at Charles Duna Primary School offers a bright and welcoming learning environment for young minds to thrive....

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Named after the recently retired principal, Miss Sume, the newly unveiled Sume Centre at Charles Duna Primary School offers a bright and welcoming learning environment for young minds to thrive.

 

Eastern Cape, South Africa (04 October 2024) – A big, bright and welcoming state-of-the-art educational centre was unveiled at Charles Duna Primary School in the heart of New Brighton township recently.

After much planning, many proposals and countless hours toiled by university architecture students, the Sume Centre is now officially open, an innovative space designed to inspire learning and growth.

Valued at R1 million, the centre is a result of the tireless efforts and contributions of Ezethu Development Trust, Masinyusane Development Organization, Nelson Mandela University, Continental and other incredible partners.

Community leaders, education department officials and other stakeholders were present to witness the momentous occasion.

According to the Masinyusane Development Organization, the centre is named after the recently retired principal Miss Sume in recognition of her invaluable contributions to the school.

The centre boasts a ratio of one teacher to six children and will offer intensive individual attention through lots of play.

With its focus on play-based learning, the Sume Centre promises to ignite the spark of curiosity and creativity in young minds.


Sources: Masinyusane Development Organization
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A Rose Garden Lover’s Paradise: Rosarium Showcases SA’s Historic Roses https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/rosarium-showcases-sas-historic-roses/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/rosarium-showcases-sas-historic-roses/#respond Wed, 02 Oct 2024 15:00:19 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=132412

If you’re a sucker for pretty flowers, and roses in particular, Bedford has a hidden gem that holds South Africa’s oldest roses that will be sure to get you feeling...

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If you’re a sucker for pretty flowers, and roses in particular, Bedford has a hidden gem that holds South Africa’s oldest roses that will be sure to get you feeling giddy inside!

 

Bedford, South Africa (02 October 2024) – Bedford is famous for its annual Garden Festival but has another floral attraction that holds the history of timeless blooms.

Nestled in the charming Eastern Cape town, lies a hidden gem for rose enthusiasts, the Bedford Rosarium.

The floral sanctuary showcases a diverse collection of heritage roses that uniquely preserve the beauty and history of our country.

Roses that have a story to tell

As you wander through the arboretum, you’ll encounter a captivating rose garden that boasts an array of colours, fragrances, and shapes, each with its own unique story to tell.

According to Karoo Heartland, the history of roses in South Africa dates back to 1657, when Jan van Riebeeck discovered the first blooms at the Cape.

The 1820 British Settlers introduced additional rose varieties to the Eastern Cape, planting them in gardens throughout the region. The first hybridised tea roses made an appearance in South Africa around 1910.

It was a visit to a botanical park in Lyon, France inspired four Eastern Cape rose en­thusiasts to develop something similar back home and start a national rosarium.

Dr David Comyn offered the club a piece of ground below his home for the establishment of the rosarium and in October 2011, the first roses were planted at Bedford’s Camelot Arboretum.

The “old” rose sanctuary

Today the stunning blooms are safe and thriving in the town’s good deep soils!

“They grow in happy companionship with indigenous pelargoniums, sutera and agapanthus, clambering up shrubs and shady trees, filling the garden with a heavenly fragrance.

“Here you will find roses hardly ever seen in modern gardens. Eventually, this sanctuary will protect more than 2,000 roses!” Karoo Heartland shares.


Sources: Karoo Heartland
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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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Nal’ibali Celebrates African Languages and Literacy With Sweetwaters Community https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/nalibali-celebrates-african-languages-literacy/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/nalibali-celebrates-african-languages-literacy/#respond Tue, 01 Oct 2024 12:00:04 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=132260

Through storytelling, play-based activities, and reading aloud, children were encouraged to embrace their mother tongue and develop a love for reading at the Nal’ibali Literacy Month Festival in Sweetwaters.  ...

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Through storytelling, play-based activities, and reading aloud, children were encouraged to embrace their mother tongue and develop a love for reading at the Nal’ibali Literacy Month Festival in Sweetwaters.

 

Sweetwaters, South Africa (01 October 2024) – Under the umbrella concept that ‘All Languages Matter’, the community of Sweetwaters in the Eastern Cape got to experience the joy of literature, stories and reading in their mother language.

The Nal’ibali Literacy Month Festival in Sweetwaters, Eastern Cape, celebrated the beauty of African languages, culture, and stories. In partnership with Equal Education, the festival provided a joyful and immersive experience for children, parents, and teachers.

The festival featured storytelling and play-based learning activities, including singing and dancing for 145 children from the Sweetwaters township.

The celebration got off to a great start with kids participating in singing and dancing, led by Nal’ibali Eastern Cape Coordinator Dr Nompucuko Zakaza.

In addition to sharing iintsomi (folklore) with the children, the Nal’ibali team read stories from the anthology and reading supplement Nal’ibali children’s stories.

Children were also encouraged to read aloud in front of the assembled audience and demonstrated exceptional understanding, enthusiasm, and reading skills.

“It takes a community to raise a child. We hope that this event will develop and make a long-lasting impact on Sweetwaters’ children. Hopefully, when we return with Nal’ibali, there will be more children,” Siya Ncetani from Equal Education remarked.

The festival not only celebrated literacy but also strengthened the community bond, as parents and teachers joined together to support the children’s learning.

By distributing reading materials and early reading handbooks, the Nal’ibali team ensured that the seeds of a reading revolution would continue to grow long after the festival ended.


Sources: Nal’ibali
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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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Grahamstown High Schooler Saves Donkey in Distress, Helps Deliver Adorable Foal! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/grahamstown-high-schooler-saves-donkey/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/grahamstown-high-schooler-saves-donkey/#respond Fri, 20 Sep 2024 07:00:01 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=131523

A Diocesan School for Girls learner displayed extraordinary bravery when she came to the aid of a donkey in distress during its labour.   Grahamstown, South Africa (20 September 2024)...

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A Diocesan School for Girls learner displayed extraordinary bravery when she came to the aid of a donkey in distress during its labour.

 

Grahamstown, South Africa (20 September 2024) – Children’s genuine love and compassion for animals in their various shapes and sizes often shine through in their interactions.

The same can be said for Beth Sahd, a pupil at The Diocesan School for Girls (DSG), who displayed an extraordinary act of bravery and compassion.

Beth did not hesitate to help a donkey in labour and in great need of support.

Though often characterised as stubborn, donkeys are gentle in nature with a strong sense of loyalty and friendship that is similar to humans.

According to the school, Beth noticed a donkey in distress during labour and stepped in to help the mother deliver her foal.

The delivery was a heartwarming success, as an image of the donkey and her foal was shared online by the school, proving that the young high schooler has the makings of an animal hero.

“What an incredible young lady! Despite the challenges, she handled the situation with remarkable composure,” DSG shared.


Sources: The Diocesan School for Girls
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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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Animal Lovers Help Raise R15,500 at St Francis Animal Rescue Bake Sale! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/animal-lovers-help-raise-r15500-at-st-francis-animal-rescue-bake-sale/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/animal-lovers-help-raise-r15500-at-st-francis-animal-rescue-bake-sale/#respond Tue, 27 Aug 2024 06:30:48 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=129482

A local community’s outpouring of love and generosity led to a heartwarming bake sale, providing much-needed funds for animals abandoned on the streets of Sea Vista, Eastern Cape.   Eastern...

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A local community’s outpouring of love and generosity led to a heartwarming bake sale, providing much-needed funds for animals abandoned on the streets of Sea Vista, Eastern Cape.

 

Eastern Cape, South Africa (27 August 2024) – It’s always so heartwarming when animal lovers come together to help animals who have been victims of cruelty and abandonment. The St Francis Animal Rescue‘s recent bake sale was a resounding success! Delectable cakes and treats tempted taste buds, and generous donors dug deep to support the cause.

St Francis Animal Rescue was able to sell every treat on sale and raised an impressive R15,500.

“We are so thankful to all our loving animal-supporting friends for your generous and delicious donations for this morning’s Bake Sale at the St Francis Brewing Company.

“This sale was so important in terms of topping up reduced funds, and this is a dream come true for all our volunteers and especially for the dogs and cats we care for in Sea Vista. Thank you to each and every one of our wonderful supporters. We love you all,” the animal rescue said.

The funds raised will be used to provide essential care, food, and shelter for dogs, cats, cows, pigs, chickens, and goats that have been left to fend for themselves on the streets of the Sea Vista township.

The St Francis Animal Rescue, run entirely by volunteers, is committed to improving the lives of these animals and ensuring that they receive the love and support they deserve.

While the need is still great, the funds raised from the bake sale will make a significant difference in the lives of innocent animals who find themselves in heartbreaking situations – now if that’s not a good reason to treat yourself to a tasty baked good, I don’t know what is!


Sources: St Francis Animal Rescue
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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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Kwakhanya Gwadiso Triumphs and Wins Gold at National Singing Competition https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/ec-teen-triumphs-and-wins-gold-at-national-singing-competition/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/ec-teen-triumphs-and-wins-gold-at-national-singing-competition/#respond Tue, 13 Aug 2024 11:00:55 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=128408

Kwakhanya Gwadiso’s journey from a small-town schoolboy to a national champion has brought immense pride to his community and supporters.   Eastern Cape, South Africa (13 August 2024) – Beaming...

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Kwakhanya Gwadiso’s journey from a small-town schoolboy to a national champion has brought immense pride to his community and supporters.

 

Eastern Cape, South Africa (13 August 2024) – Beaming with the widest and brightest smile as he donned his Xhosa traditional attire was vocally talented Kwakhanya Gwadiso who showed up and showed out at the ABC Motsepe SASCE competition in Johannesburg last week.

No stranger to the stage, the Holy Cross Secondary School Grade 12 pupil delivered a captivating tenor solo performance titled Ixesha Lokunduluka dedicated to Nelson Mandela, that mesmerised the audience and impressed the judges.

The young star’s powerful vocals and stage presence earned him first place in his category at the prestigious event, bringing immense pride to his school, family, and community.

Overwhelmed with pride and excitement, his school and the local community gave Kwakhanya Gwadiso a hero’s welcome at the Mthatha bus station. They gathered to sing and dance in celebration of his national championship.

Speaking to The Good Things Guy, Holy Cross Secondary School principal Mr Madikizela described Kwakhanya as a pupil who not only loved attention but possessed a talent that has transformed the school’s approach to music, making it more vibrant and of a higher standard.

“As a school, we are excited and over the moon at how this boy has put us on the map. As a school, we will continue to celebrate his achievement by hosting a special celebratory occasion on Friday.

“Last year Kwakhanya came back with a bronze medal at the same event. Since then he has dedicated himself to working even harder. This year he was very determined and came back with gold. With Kwakhanya’s innovation and talent, he has also changed the way we sing at assembly. He has added spice and a vibe. You just cannot help but listen and be inspired. We are very proud of him.”

With his golden voice and infectious enthusiasm, Kwakhanya has become a symbol of hope for the Eastern Cape and beyond!


Sources: Holy Cross Secondary School
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Taxi Boss Shines With PhD; Aims to Debunk Industry Myths With His Story https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/taxi-boss-shines-with-phd-aims-to-debunk-industry-myths-with-his-story/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/taxi-boss-shines-with-phd-aims-to-debunk-industry-myths-with-his-story/#respond Fri, 19 May 2023 11:23:33 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=103428

Dr Stamper, the Taxi Boss who has an affinity for academic quests, recently achieved his PhD. He wanted to make his grandmothers proud; reminding people not to be so quick...

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Dr Stamper, the Taxi Boss who has an affinity for academic quests, recently achieved his PhD. He wanted to make his grandmothers proud; reminding people not to be so quick in judging someone by what they do for a living in the process. His story:

 

Eastern Cape, South Africa (19 May, 2023)—Dr Stamper knows well that people shouldn’t be defined by one part of their lives. Still, when he’s not hitting the books as an academic or the road as a Taxi Boss, Dr Stamper’s on a journey to debunk myths about judging people for their industries, leading by example as a recent PhD graduate.

“I am proud to say, I am a Taxi Boss who is an Academic Doctor,” he shares of his recent graduation at the University of Fort Hare and a family dream come-true. 

Humble Beginnings

Dr Sakhumzi Stamper (32) was born the youngest of seven, raised by his grandmothers in Mount Coke, Eastern Cape. One was a cleaner, the other, a social grant recipient. Stamper knew things weren’t easy for the family financially, so to take the weight off his grandmothers’ shoulders, he became a savvy business owner in primary school already.

“I used to lend my peers R1 and charged interest of 20%. I saved up the money and stocked up on sweets to sell to my mates when I got to high school,” he recalls. 

When he wasn’t building his side hustle, he was soaring through school as an academically gifted student. Looking back, it isn’t surprising that he’d end up combining business skills, academics and determination to achieve his dreams.

Still, the road to where he is now was long, and filled with many winds. Eager to continue learning after graduating high school, he got the opportunity to buckle down for his first degree at Walter Sisulu University thanks to a family friend’s assistance. Human Resources wasn’t his be-all-and-end-all, but it inspired something in him—a curiosity for Commerce.

He graduated cum laude, but the study bug had bitten him. Soon, a B-Tech followed, then an Honours Degree and eventually his Masters in Commerce.

Funding his studies was another story though, leading Dr Stamper onto numerous different paths, sometimes at the same time.

“At some stage I sold airtime, I held down a part-time job at a local pharmaceutical, tutored junior students and worked as an Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) supervisor.”

After his grandmothers passed on during the course of his studies, he felt more than ever that he wanted to honour them with his journey. He shares that they’d been his pillars of strength in making ends meet and support, and so he often pushed on to make them proud.

The Taxi Boss Who Lectures

Along the road in 2018, Dr Stamper pulled his part-time lecturer salary at Walter Sisulu and his tax returns together to invest in a taxi. One became three, and soon, he and his wife Aphiwe were running the business while Dr Stamper continued his academic journey.

His purpose was “to make a name for a child raised by a cleaner and a social grant recipient”, something his wife would remind him when those demotivating feedback notes came in hot.

He also became a full-time lecturer along the way, but the gold at the end of the rainbow was still that doctorate. Working closely with Prof Willie, his supervisor, Dr Stamper finally made it to the academic land of milk and honey, earning his Doctoral Degree in Business Management!

Of his Prof Willie, Dr Stamper shared that the Prof “showed him Ubuntu”.

But, his journey and its recent milestone moment were never for himself alone. For Dr Stamper, the achievement also serves a message for other people in the taxi industry who are often misperceived as uneducated or under-ambitious.

“I hope my story sends a message that taxi owners are also ambitious people with quests for educational advancement. In this industry, we have people with degrees,” he shares.


Source: University of Fort Hare
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