Exchanging his helmet and fire hose for chalk and textbooks, Buhle Silumko’s decision to return to school and pursue a new path is truly inspiring.

Flagstaff, South Africa (18 October 2024) – It takes immense courage to go back to school and embark on a whole new career path as an adult. In a world where many feel stuck in unfulfilling jobs, this decision is not only admirable but inspiring.

It also speaks to the bold and brave spirit of going after your dreams regardless of insignificant factors such as age, other people’s opinions or society’s standards.

Excited to embark on his calling and a new career is Buhle Silumko, who recently transitioned from being a firefighter to starting a new chapter as a primary school teacher.

The team from Working on Fire—Kishugu Joint Venture celebrated his new endeavour. They shared that Silumko, from the Mkhambathi Base in Flagstaff, pursued his Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase degree while working as a firefighter.

He was recruited in 2015 and served as a SHE Representative before he began his studies at Unisa in 2019.

“I’m grateful for the support I received from the programme and will instill the discipline I gained at Working on Fire in my students,” the new teacher shared.

Silumko’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. Parting ways on good terms, Working on Fire wished him every success as he continues to inspire future generations.

Sources: Working on Fire

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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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Mzansi’s wildfire firefighters returned from Canada to a hero’s welcome, reflecting the nation’s pride and gratitude for their selfless service.

South Africa (08 September 2024) – After bravely fighting fires far away from home, the Mzanzi1 Hotshots, South Africa’s wildland firefighters, have returned after a successful deployment in Canada.

Their courageous efforts in battling some of the most severe wildfires in Alberta Province have earned them international praise.

The Mzanzi1 Hotshots were welcomed with warmth and praise upon their arrival at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) this week.

Working on Fire (WOF)-Kishugu JV management, dignitaries, and family gathered to greet the 216 firefighters and management personnel.

Following their arrival, the team was escorted to the Kishugu Training Academy, where a formal homecoming ceremony marked the successful conclusion of their mission.

The Mzanzi1 Hotshots were praised for their exceptional fitness, discipline, and commitment.

According to Working on Fire, this is the sixth time South African firefighters have been sent to Canada to help put out wildfires since 2015. This is possible because of an agreement between South Africa and Canada that helps countries work together on environmental issues, including sharing firefighters.

During the ceremony, the Canadian High Commissioner to South Africa, Christopher Cooter, extended his heartfelt appreciation to the firefighters.

“Your courage and dedication have made a profound impact on our country. Canada is deeply grateful for the unwavering support that South Africa has provided over the years.

“The Mzanzi1 Hotshots have once again demonstrated the strength of our bilateral partnership and the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges.”

South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Berenice Swarts, commended the team for their remarkable achievements.

“Your efforts have not only saved lives and property in Canada but have also elevated South Africa’s reputation on the global stage,” Swarts said.

The successful deployment demonstrated confidence in the capabilities of South African firefighters, who are always ready to tackle even the most formidable challenges on the global stage.

Sources: Working on Fire

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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.

The post SA Firefighters Honoured for Bravery and Dedication in Canadian Wildfire Mission appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Behind the brave firefighters battling dangerous fires lies two extraordinary SA women who are dedicated to driving them to the frontlines.

Canada, North America (20 August 2024) – Firefighters are rightly celebrated for their courage and dedication, but often overlooked are the unsung heroes behind the wheel.

Fire truck drivers play a critical role in ensuring these brave men and women reach emergency scenes swiftly and safely.

Two such exceptional drivers are South African women, Fundiswa Siqangwe from Falsebay Base in the Western Cape, and Maggy Radebe from Harrismith Base in the Free State.

According to Working on Fire, these dedicated drivers ensure the safety of their teams, transporting them securely to and from the implementation of Integrated Fire Management Solutions.

Fundiswa and Maggy are currently deployed to Canada, where they are both contributing to the firefighting efforts.

According to the South African Commission of Ottawa Canada the Working on Fire – Kishugu Joint Venture deployed a team of more than 200 firefighters and management to the Canadian province of Alberta in July to assist with firefighting and fire suppression efforts.

For Fundiswa, this is her first international deployment, and she is excited to be part of the mission.

“As a woman driver it is not easy because I need to earn the trust of the firefighters and I also have the responsibility of taking them to the fires,” shares Fundiswa Siqangwe.

Maggy Radebe encouraged women to go forward, take up space and dream beyond societies expectations.

As this dynamic duo navigates challenging terrain and high-pressure situations abroad, they inspire us all to reach beyond our limits and prove that women can conquer any challenge.

Sources: Working on Fire

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

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

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

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