#AwesomeAfrica Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/awesomeafrica/ Thu, 12 Sep 2024 10:28:51 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-gtg_favicon-32x32.png #AwesomeAfrica Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/awesomeafrica/ 32 32 Tessa Gough Tackles 250km Kalahari Marathon to Raise R70K to Fight Period Poverty https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/tessa-gough-kalahari-marathon-period-poverty/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/tessa-gough-kalahari-marathon-period-poverty/#respond Wed, 28 Aug 2024 08:00:50 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=129591

Tessa Gough’s daring journey across the Kalahari Desert will serve as a symbol of hope and empowerment for women facing a daily battle for basic dignity.   Cape Town, South...

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Tessa Gough’s daring journey across the Kalahari Desert will serve as a symbol of hope and empowerment for women facing a daily battle for basic dignity.

 

spar hero of the week

Cape Town, South Africa (28 August 2024) – While the world continues to move forward in various progressive ways, the disheartening reality of young women being unable to access or afford the very basic need of sanitary wear remains a huge problem in our country.

Period poverty is a silent struggle for young women in many areas of South Africa, which sees schoolgirls and young women missing school or work or living in constant fear of embarrassment during that “time of the month” because of limited or no menstrual products, sanitation or hygiene facilities.

Simply put, period poverty costs women and girls too much, and it doesn’t have to be this way.

Bringing awareness and boldly tackling this issue is Tessa Gough, who will be embarking on a gruelling 250km, self-supported desert run across the Kalahari in September as part of the Kalahari Augrabies Extreme Marathon, taking place between the 14 and 22 of September.

As part of her Kalahari marathon, Tessa will be collaborating with the remarkable organisation, Mama Flo. This Cape Town-based charity is dedicated to providing menstrual products and educational resources to women in the Langa and Khayelitsha townships.

“My goal is to raise R70,000 to provide 500 packs of reusable sanitary pads for these ladies, each pack can last a girl up to 5 years,” Tessa shared.

Mama Flo, established in 2020, aims to address period poverty comprehensively. They achieve this through educational workshops, pad distributions and leadership development by training future leaders through ambassador and intern programs.

Tessa has also started a BackaBuddy page, which has already received over R12,700 in donations in under two weeks.

“I believe every girl should have the freedom to move, boogie, learn, and reach her full potential without having to worry about accessing sanitary products – something that should be a human right.

“By joining me on this journey, you’re not just supporting a crazy desert run; you’re investing in a future where all girls can thrive and move their bodies in any way they want!”

With each step, Tessa will raise awareness and funds, ensuring that more young girls can access the essential resources they need to thrive.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Mama Flo (@mamaflosa)


Sources: Tessa Gough
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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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Music Maestro Dennis’ Dream Comes True with Surprise Visit from SA Artist Daliwonga https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/music-maestro-dennis-dream-comes-true-with-surprise-visit-from-sa-artist-daliwonga/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/music-maestro-dennis-dream-comes-true-with-surprise-visit-from-sa-artist-daliwonga/#respond Wed, 21 Aug 2024 10:00:29 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=129083

Despite facing the challenges of illness, Dennis’s dream to meet his favourite music artist was granted by the Reach for a Dream foundation.   Johannesburg, South Africa (21 August 2024)...

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Despite facing the challenges of illness, Dennis’s dream to meet his favourite music artist was granted by the Reach for a Dream foundation.

 

Johannesburg, South Africa (21 August 2024) – Twelve-year-old music enthusiast, Dennis, possesses an impressive understanding of music and its creators. Aspiring to inspire future generations as a teacher, Dennis was granted a once-in-a-lifetime experience by the Reach for a Dream Foundation.

The foundation curated a day filled with magic, beginning with a surprise encounter with a beloved South African artist. Upon arriving at the Maslow Hotel, Dennis was warmly welcomed and escorted to his private dining area. A creative art session ensued, where he and his family painted their masterpieces.

While Dennis was immersed in his artwork, a surprise guest walked in, Amapiano artist Daliwonga – Dennis’ favourite musician. Dennis was stunned, and after a while, they spent time painting together.​

The surprises did not end there as Dennis received and unwrapped his brand-new music speaker and adorable teddy bear from Daliwonga.

The day ended with Dennis playing his favourite song by Daliwonga on his new music speaker, creating lasting memories with his favourite music artist.​

The Reach for a Dream initiative not only provided Dennis with a truly unforgettable experience that will undoubtedly leave lasting memories but also reinforced his passion for music and his aspirations to teach and share it with others in the future.


Sources: Reach for a Dream
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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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NGO Rallies to Provide Home and Hope for Elderly Woman and 3 Grandchildren https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/ngo-provide-home-for-elderly-woman/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/ngo-provide-home-for-elderly-woman/#respond Fri, 02 Aug 2024 13:00:04 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=127661

Thanks to the generosity of the Collen Mashawana Foundation and others, one gogo and her grandchildren can now look forward to a brighter future filled with peace and stability.  ...

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Thanks to the generosity of the Collen Mashawana Foundation and others, one gogo and her grandchildren can now look forward to a brighter future filled with peace and stability.

 

South African (02 August 2024) – After much hardship and living with anxiety about her house caving in, one South African grandmother finally has peace of mind and a warm place to call home.

While it may sound cliché, it truly was “a dream come true” for Gogo Ntombi Catherine Sokhela, a 75-year-old single parent, and her three grandchildren when they were recently presented with a newly constructed two-bedroom house.

The new house was furnished with ceiling tiles, electricity, water supply including a JoJo tank, and a food garden.

Thanks to the Collen Mashawana Foundation and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), Gogo Ntombi and her family want for nothing.

Foundation provides a glimmer of hope.

According to the Collen Mashawana Foundation, the Sokhela family had previously endured hardship. Floods severely damaged their home, resulting in a dangerous living situation.

The roof was on the verge of collapse, and the house would flood completely during rainfall, making certain rooms uninhabitable.

Yet, amidst her challenges, a spark of compassion ignited, transforming her life and that of her grandchildren.

“For years, the family had lived in fear of the house collapsing, with their living conditions posing a significant threat to their health and well-being,” shared fervent philanthropist Collen Mashawana, who has been committed to assisting the elderly.

Ncanda Funerals also generously provided the family with food assistance for the next six months.

The official house handover was marked with happiness and celebration, as Gogo Ntombi beamed with joy and was overcome with emotion, which was beautifully captured in the heartwarming images from the handover day.


Sources: Collen Mashawana
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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.

Home and home.

 

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3 Local Lodges Make Travel + Leisure’s Readers Top 10 List https://www.goodthingsguy.com/travel/3-local-lodges-make-travel-leisures-readers-top-10-list/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/travel/3-local-lodges-make-travel-leisures-readers-top-10-list/#respond Sun, 21 Jul 2024 10:00:27 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=126780

South Africa is the most popular country in all of Africa for Travel + Leisure’s Favourite Safari Lodges List! Readers chose their favourite game lodges, and much to South Africa’s...

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South Africa is the most popular country in all of Africa for Travel + Leisure’s Favourite Safari Lodges List! Readers chose their favourite game lodges, and much to South Africa’s delight, 3 made the Top 10 cut:

 

South Africa (21 July 2024) — There are few experiences quite as enthralling as visiting a game lodge, especially in our breathtaking country. For those who travel many kilometres across the sea just to catch a sight of the Big Five and those of us lucky enough to take a quick drive to reconnect with our wild side alike, game lodges are a top choice travel experience for many, even beating out costal dreams or city explorations.

Recently, game lodge lovers and readers of Travel + Leisure revealed their most favourite African lodges as part of the T+L “World’s Best Awards” 2024 survey.

The findings will come as great news to South Africans, with our country being the most popular country in the category, boasting 3 local lodges in the Top 10 out of the whole continent and the top spot!

The ratings were classified based on various characteristics from service to location with thousands of readers casting their votes.

“The 2024 results highlight a blend of time-honoured favourites and emerging destinations, reflecting the diverse interests of today’s travellers. We’re delighted to honour these exceptional places and experiences that inspire our audiences to explore the world,” said Jacqui Gifford, T + L Editor.

The jury has certainly spoken, and without further ado, these are the South African lodges that made the global spotlight:

Claiming first place is South Africa’s Monwana Game Lodge in the Thornybush Nature Reserve with a reader score of 98.90. Following in seventh place is Lion Sands Game Reserve: Sabi Sand Game Reserve with a score of 97.89. And in ninth place came Thornybush Game Lodge: Thronybush Private Game Reserve with a score of 97.83!

Meanwhile, in other epic news for South Africa’s finest natural experiences, Walker Bay has an award-winning beach thanks to the Condé Nast Traveller, with Die Plaat Beach being selected as one of the world’s best beaches!


Sources: Supplied; Travel + Leisure 
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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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Meet Masana wa Afrika! A new Dose of Hope for African Children https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/meet-masana-wa-afrika-a-new-dose-of-hope-for-african-children/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/meet-masana-wa-afrika-a-new-dose-of-hope-for-african-children/#respond Fri, 07 Jun 2024 08:00:06 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=124351

A new non-profit is bringing hope to African children and their families across challenges they face! Meet Masana wa Afrika:   Africa (6 June 2024) – Masana wa Afrika which...

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A new non-profit is bringing hope to African children and their families across challenges they face! Meet Masana wa Afrika:

 

Africa (6 June 2024) – Masana wa Afrika which means “the warmth of the sun embraces Africa” in Xitsonga, is a newly established African nonprofit foundation that has officially launched! With a mission to support and amplify African community-based organisations serving the needs of children and their families, Masana wa Afrika aims to drive lasting change throughout the continent, including South Africa.

Recognising that community leaders themselves are the experts best positioned to determine how funding can be most effectively utilised, Masana wa Afrika currently provides multi-year unrestricted grants alongside capacity-strengthening support to 115 organisations in 13 African countries, with plans to expand over the coming years.

These organisations offer a wide range of essential services that would otherwise be unavailable to children and families in their communities, including:

  • Early childhood development programs
  • Child Nutrition
  • Support for children with disabilities
  • Economic empowerment opportunities
  • Psychosocial support
  • HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment services

Masana wa Afrika’s approach to philanthropy centres on forging long-term relationships with proximate leaders; acknowledging the importance of local ownership, cultural sensitivity, and community-driven solutions in driving development in Africa. Its South Africa and Uganda-based team works closely with each grantee organisation, supporting them as they create and implement sustainable, long-term advancements for their communities.

“Masana wa Afrika recognises the inherent potential and resilience of African communities,” said Ruth Mapara, Director of Masana wa Afrika.

 “Our foundation is built on the belief that sustainable development can only be achieved when communities are empowered to lead and drive change from within. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support and resources to help African children and communities thrive.”

Adds Tsitsi Masiyiwa, the non-profit’s Board Member and Delta Philanthropies Board Chair:

“Masana wa Afrika is trust-based philanthropy in action…The organisations supported by the foundation are embedded in the communities they serve, making them expertly placed to design and deliver solutions that work for them. The more support we give them, the greater impact they can achieve.”

Masana wa Afrika’s initial funding partners are Delta Philanthropies and The ELMA Foundation.

“Together we can ensure that community-based organisations have sufficient resources to enable children and youth in Africa to succeed.” — Ruth Mapara.

Here are the SA Organisations Masana wa Afrika is Supporting:


Sources: Supplied 
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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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Natural Heritage: Meet the Pioneers Reshaping Conservation in Africa https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/natural-heritage-meet-the-pioneers-reshaping-conservation-in-africa/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/natural-heritage-meet-the-pioneers-reshaping-conservation-in-africa/#comments Tue, 23 Apr 2024 14:10:25 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=121998

Across Africa, dedicated conservationists are making big strides in making sure our continent’s natural heritage is protected. Meet the Unsung Heroes leading the charge for conservation in Africa:   Cape...

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Across Africa, dedicated conservationists are making big strides in making sure our continent’s natural heritage is protected. Meet the Unsung Heroes leading the charge for conservation in Africa:

 

Cape Town, South Africa (23 April 2024) — Our continent, with its diverse ecosystems and iconic wildlife, is home to passionate and dedicated conservationists who are making significant strides in protecting Africa’s natural heritage. From tackling deforestation to finding innovative human-wildlife conflict solutions to addressing plastic waste and promoting sustainable farming practices, these are the Unsung Heroes working on the front lines of conservation who are also reshaping how we think about it.

These extraordinary individuals have emerged as beacons of hope in the fight against threats like poaching and habitat destruction, and pioneers of approaches that originate in Africa, for Africa. Their stories are also varied, showing that everyone has a role to play in protecting Africa’s ecosystems, whether community leaders, academics, government employees, NGO stakeholders, artists, farmers, veterinarians, rangers, or ordinary citizens.

People and Wildlife Must Thrive Together

Across the continent, communities and wildlife live alongside each other, often leading to struggles for space and resources, despite our natural heritage being something we should all share. In many countries high unemployment and poverty levels put pressure on natural systems, with few viable alternatives for those who poach for bushmeat or income through the illegal wildlife trade. But the idea that each of these individuals is popularising through their work is one of compatibility and interdependence: the notion that people and wildlife can only survive and thrive together.

Each of the conservation heroes stories is a testament to the generosity, ingenuity, and resilience of the human spirit and a reminder of how intimately we are connected to the natural world on which we rely. With that being said, meet the heroes of conservation in Africa and keep a slice of their stories on hand for inspiration as brought to life by Wild Africa Fund.

Safeguarding the Emerald Forest Reserve in Nigeria

Professor Akin Abayomi recognises the global implications of climate change and biodiversity loss. He is actively involved in protecting the Emerald Forest Reserve, a crucial biodiversity hotspot in Nigeria, by involving local communities in sustainable conservation practices—a community effort for natural heritage.

Custodian of Raponda Walker Arboretum in Gabon

Andrea Minkwe passionately manages the Raponda Walker Arboretum, defending it against illegal activities such as felling and unlawful encroachment by farming, mining, and commercial logging concerns, as well as promoting responsible tourism. Her commitment showcases the importance of individual stewardship in preserving Gabon’s natural beauty. The Gabonese forests also form part of the Congo Basin and are the world’s second-largest rainforests after the Amazon.

Coastal Conservation in Garden Route National Park

Bongani Mdaka, a ranger and environmental advocate, addresses poaching challenges in Africa’s oldest Marine Protected Area, Garden Route National Park. His journey unfolds as he explores the potential of a multi-stakeholder approach to protect marine treasures. Passionate about taking his work further and into environmental law, and with the support of SANParks, he’s busy with a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Management.

Rescuing and Rehabilitating Endangered Wildlife in Nigeria

Chinedu Mogbo, founder of Greenfingers Wildlife Conservation Initiative, has dedicated over a decade to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing endangered wildlife in Nigeria. His work not only saves individual animals but also educates young people about the importance of wildlife conservation. Through Greenfingers, Chinedu has been able to rescue and rehabilitate over 500 animals, including primates, birds, and reptiles. He’s recently upgraded the facilities to include a nature school and upcycling classroom.

Connecting People to Nature Through Art in Gabon

As an artist, illustrator, and graphic designer in Gabon, Corailking uses his creative talents to convey a powerful message about the urgency of environmental conservation. His work aims to connect people, especially the youth, with nature and emphasises the need to protect our planet.

Advocate for Environmental Conservation in Nigeria

The founder of LUFASI Nature Park, Desmond Olumuyiwa Majekodunmi is a dedicated advocate for environmental conservation. For over 50 years, Desmond has championed the cause, using his voice on Nigeria Info 99.3 FM’s “Green Hour” and his talents as an author, singer, and scriptwriter. His multifaceted approach, including agricultural projects and media engagement, highlights the importance of sustained efforts over decades.

Sustainable Farming for Forest Preservation in Zimbabwe

Douglas Mafukidze, a tobacco farmer in Zimbabwe, advocates for alternative approaches to protect indigenous forests. His collaboration with the Forestry Commission promotes the use of fast-growing trees for tobacco curing and to preserve natural habitats.

Turning Plastic Waste into Opportunities in Nigeria

Doyinsola Ogunye is addressing Nigeria’s plastic waste crisis through initiatives like Kids Clean Club and Kids Beach Garden. Her recycling scheme for women and youth empowerment not only contributes to a cleaner environment but also provides income-generating opportunities for women and young people. It was recently nominated for a UNDP accelerator programme and was a finalist in the 2023 Afriplastic Challenge sponsored by the Canadian government. A lawyer turned conservationist, she’s also working to protect critically endangered leatherback and olive ridley sea turtles. Her team both responds to turtles in distress and promotes turtle-friendly practices in local fishing communities.

Lifelong Mission to Save African Manatees

Dr. Bolaji Dunsin is dedicated to saving the African manatee from extinction. Through innovative approaches, like modifying fishing gear and identifying manatee vocalisations, he has saved many of these gentle marine mammals and improved the livelihoods of local communities in Lekki Lagoon, Nigeria. Today, the community sustainably produces over 1.5 tonnes of fish annually and has a thriving manatee population.

Guardian of Elephants in Omo Forest

Emmanuel Olabode is leading on-the-ground efforts to save forest elephants in Omo Forest, Nigeria, one of the last areas of pristine rainforest left in Nigeria. Combating deforestation and human-wildlife conflict daily, Emmanuel and his team are fighting for the survival of our forests, elephants, and cultural heritage: they are all interdependent.

Community-Based Conservation for Cross River Gorillas

The Gorilla Guardians form part of the Mbe Mountains project, supported by WCS with funds and technical support. This community-based initiative champions the conservation of the endangered Cross River gorilla, by addressing habitat loss and poaching, offering hope for the survival of this most threatened of all African ape species, with less than 300 individuals remaining.

Veterinarian and Conservationist in Nigeria

Dr Mark Ofua runs St. Marks Animal Hospital, rescuing and caring for endangered species impacted by the illegal bushmeat trade. Over the years, he’s saved and cared for innumerable species, releasing them back into the wild where they belong, including pangolins, civets, and crocodiles. His dedication to changing social attitudes towards animals contributes to the broader mission of wildlife conservation. Dr Mark also advocates for wildlife as a spokesperson for Wild Africa Fund and presents “Dr Mark’s Animal Show”, an edutainment series for kids aged  7- 14  available on  several TV channels across Africa.

Popularising Human-Wildlife Coexistence in Zimbabwe

Ndelende Ncube, the director of Tikobane Trust, leads efforts to address human-wildlife conflict around Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. Rural areas often represent a borderless intersection of humans and wildlife, which has sadly led to losses on both sides, but can be reimagined through varied solutions and approaches. Tikobane Trust is committed to ensuring the peaceful co-existence between humans and wild animals through conservation clubs, conservation committees, and training. In 2023, Tikobane engaged and trained 423 local people, 17 traditional leaders, and 68 stakeholders. The organisation’s innovative chilli elephant repellant has proven effective in protecting crops and promoting communities that come together as one with their environment.

Penguin Conservation at Two Oceans Aquarium, South Africa

Shanet Rutgers, the head penguin keeper at Two Oceans Aquarium, passionately works to conserve African Penguins. Her insights into their behaviour and the threats they face highlight the urgent need to protect marine life and habitats. In 2024 she is busy with research on Rockhopper penguin vocalisations, a first for Two Oceans Aquarium and South Africa and a big move for our aquatic natural heritage.

Travel Mufasa: Connecting Youth with Zimbabwe’s Natural Heritage

Joseph Makowa, known as @thetravelmufasa, embarked on a 1,500km journey on foot through Zimbabwe, aiming to connect with the country’s wildlife and vibrant communities. His heart-warming story is sure to inspire a deeper appreciation for natural heritage and the need to protect it and pass this on to younger generations, as Joseph has now committed to.

Yankari Rangers: Guardians of Yankari Game Reserve in Nigeria

Rangers Jonah and Yusef, stationed at Yankari Game Reserve, exemplify dedication to protecting wildlife and local communities. Their efforts go beyond law enforcement, as they have transformed the rangers and become a united force, engaging with communities to raise awareness about the consequences of poaching and deforestation.

Rachel Ikemeh: Protecting Nigeria’s Primates

Rachel Ikemeh is an award-winning conservationist whose efforts have brought the rare Niger Delta red colobus monkey back from the brink of extinction. As the Director of SW/Niger Delta Forest Project, she’s spearheading grassroots conservation, helping to create protected areas, and managing them to restore vital ecosystems in the face of high-security risks. Going from strength to strength, her team has doubled in recent years and the Niger Delta red colobus monkey population now stands at around 300 individuals  in the area they oversee. With this success, her focus is now shifting into building local institutional capacity to continue the work, and increasing public awareness, with the goal of creating a community education and communication hub in Lagos. She’s also a Co-Vice Chair for the IUCN/SSC Primate Specialist Group African Section, a Member of the International Primatological Society (IPS) education committee, and a co-founder of the African Primatological Society. Her position in these networks is propelling African conservation leadership forward.

Twizerimana Anne-Marie: Changing the Face of Conservation

Twizerimana Anne-Marie, a dedicated ranger at Nyungwe Forest National Park in southwest Rwanda, embodies resilience and redefines the face of rangers. Her remarkable journey challenges gender norms and reshapes the perception of conservationists in the region. Her story serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring numerous women to pursue their passion for protecting our natural heritage through environmental and wildlife conservation.

Mitigating Human-Wildlife Conflict

Fiston Ishimwe, serving as the Community Liaison Manager at Akagera National Park, highlights the formidable challenges encountered by local communities striving to coexist with wildlife. Addressing these hurdles requires a comprehensive approach that extends beyond mere surface solutions. Alongside his team, Fiston endeavours to deeply understand the socio-economic dynamics of the local population, integrating their needs into a holistic strategy. Their ultimate aim is to foster a peaceful and enduring coexistence between humans and wildlife, ensuring a sustainable future for all.

These conservationists exemplify the dedication and creativity required to address diverse environmental challenges across Africa. Their efforts go beyond protecting wildlife; they inspire change and foster harmony between humans and nature. Their stories inspire hope and emphasise the collective responsibility we share in safeguarding the continent’s precious natural heritage. To find out more about these unsung heroes, you can head to Showmax or access Wild Africa Fund’s video library.


Sources: Media Release
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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.


natural heritage

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Local Fashion Designers Celebrated for Dazzling Works at Fashion Weeks https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/local-fashion-designers-celebrated-for-dazzling-works-at-fashion-weeks/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/local-fashion-designers-celebrated-for-dazzling-works-at-fashion-weeks/#respond Tue, 05 Dec 2023 14:00:40 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=115409

South African designers, alongside other African names to know in fashion, were recently celebrated for their collections’ homecoming after having dazzled at Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks—a major milestone!  ...

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South African designers, alongside other African names to know in fashion, were recently celebrated for their collections’ homecoming after having dazzled at Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks—a major milestone!

 

Cape Town, South Africa (05 December 2023) — Snippets of two Fashion Week experiences were suitcased and sent to Cape Town over the past weekend. There, local fashion designers as well as other African names in fashion to know and root for, were celebrated for major milestones in the industry.

Still infatuated with the sense of accomplishment after having showcased at Paris and Milan Fashion Week, these designers were the pride and joy of the weekend for lovers of the craft.

If you follow fashion, you know that their showcases at the big Fashion Weeks matter (especially from an African perspective) for many reasons, not least because of the exposure it spotlights on non-Western creativity.

This is something South African creatives of all skills and backgrounds have relished in this year (such as Thebe Magugu and Lukhanyo Mdingi) and will hopefully set the tone for a dazzling near future for more local masterpieces.

Two South African designers and their creations (Belle Togs by Keke Moeca, who is based in Gauteng, and Molebatsi, founded by Jessica Jane and Wandile Molebatsi) lit up a runway made specifically to celebrate their achievements at the picture-perfect Mount Nelson Hotel to an international audience.

Photo Credit: Ashleigh Nefdt
Photo Credit: Ashleigh Nefdt
Photo Credit: Ashleigh Nefdt

Joining their walks on stage were collections from Christopher Emef by Christopher Emefiele (British-Nigerian) and Safiètou Seck’s ‘SARAYYA’ (Senegal).

20 models had the honour of walking their designs, which was a milestone in its own right as these talents were scouted as part of an empowerment programme!

All of the collections‚—each a thrill in its own stature—were proudly welcomed and praised through applause galore.

Beyond a celebration and homecoming of their designs at the most important events in the world of fashion, the gathering was also the signal of something new—the Pan African Luxury group (Africa’s top designers) who will be presented in New York City, Paris and Milan in 2024 alongside international designers. This curation of our continent’s talent is not only a chance for more showcases that equalise non-Western talent in fashion with designers from around the world but also paves the path for more African designers to get their moments in the sun.


Sources: GTG
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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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Africa Human Rights Film Festival to Unite Compassion and Creativity in Cape Town https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/africa-human-rights-film-festival-to-unite-compassion-and-creativity-in-cape-town/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/africa-human-rights-film-festival-to-unite-compassion-and-creativity-in-cape-town/#respond Wed, 30 Aug 2023 10:00:34 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=109487

The 6th African Human Rights Film Festival is loading, set to unite compassion and creativity with Cape Town as its stage.   Cape Town, South Africa (30 August 2023) —...

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The 6th African Human Rights Film Festival is loading, set to unite compassion and creativity with Cape Town as its stage.

 

Cape Town, South Africa (30 August 2023) — The Africa Human Rights Film Festival (AHRFF) is gearing up for the 6th edition of the film festival where creatives, compassion and consciousness will all join forces.

The Fest will be taking place in Cape Town at Isivivana Community Centre in Khayelitsha, The Labia Theatre and the African Climate & Development Initiative at the UCT.

Now in its 6th year, the Africa Human Rights Film Festival looks back on its humble beginnings as a single human rights film shown every last Thursday of the month in Joburg’s Alexandra. Its mission was community empowerment. Since then, the festival has grown have flowered wonderfully, with 30 films from 16 countries across the world to be showcased this year.

The main purpose of the Festival is to generate healthy debate using film, empowering citizens, raising awareness, and promoting respect for human rights in marginalized communities including rural areas and townships through tellings that evoke compassion and creativity.

The AHRFF will run from 18 October to 20 October 2023 and the Festival is amongst the few that focus directly on human rights and expose ordinary citizens to such content.

“We are not only excited to be hosting another edition of the festival in the beautiful historical city of Cape Town, but longing to present and show case citizens content and films they would not generally see on a daily basis”, shares Festival Co-Director Buntu FY Hweshe.

Hweshe adds that this year will also draw a sharp focus on climate and human rights as well as the frontline communities that are most impacted by climate change.

The festival will start off with its opening night at The Labia Theatre then followed by two days of film binging, workshops and open discussion at the Isivivana Centre in Khayelitsha, which is home to the Bertha Movie House. The second venue for the festival will be the African Climate and Development Initiative (ACDI) based at UCT where there will be two days of film screening and panel discussions.

You can find out more here!


Sources: Supplied
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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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