The Angel Network invites South Africans to unite and support Alison Botha as she faces challenges following her critical brain aneurysm, ensuring she receives the essential care and assistance she needs.

Johannesburg, South Africa (22 October 2024) – Alison Botha’s story is one of unwavering courage and resilience. In 1994, she defied death’s grasp, surviving a traumatic ordeal with a spirit that continues to inspire millions.

Now, Alison faces another formidable challenge: a life-threatening brain aneurysm that has left her with ongoing medical challenges.

Good Things Guy recently shared the news about Alison’s latest health battle, shocking many South Africans who have already rallied to support her.

The Angel Network, a nonprofit organisation that works to alleviate poverty and social injustice, has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to support Alison Botha, a woman whose life epitomises survival and resilience.

The campaign aims to raise R200,000 to cover her medical expenses as she faces significant health challenges following a life-threatening brain aneurysm.

To add to her difficulties, it is reported that the parole release of her attackers in July 2023 has reignited emotional trauma. Without medical aid and unable to work, Alison faces a heavy emotional and financial burden.

The Angel Network invites everyone to stand with Alison during this challenging time and to reach deep into their pockets to support a woman whose bravery has defied great and undeserved odds.

Alison’s attorney, Tania Koen, describes her condition as extremely serious. Following her discharge, she will need round-the-clock care, dramatically changing her life.

Alison has spent years empowering others with her story of survival. Now, it is SA’s turn to stand by her.

By donating to Alison’s cause, you are not just contributing financially; you are sending a powerful message of solidarity and hope.

Visit the Alison Botha BackaBuddy page to make a donation.

Sources: The Angel Network

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 Angel Network Rallies Support for Alison Botha’s Recovery After Brain Aneurysm appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The dedicated inspectorate team of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA took on the 5km Sanlam Peace Run this past Saturday to raise critical funds in their relentless fight to protect those who cannot speak for themselves.

Cape Town, South Africa (21 October 2024) – On the crisp Saturday morning of 19 October, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA team of dedicated inspectors laced up their running shoes and took on the 5km Sanlam Peace Run.

With every stride, they carried the weight of countless animals who have suffered, those still waiting for rescue, and those who have found comfort in their care.

Led by Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse, the team’s efforts were a powerful statement against animal cruelty.

Thanks to the incredible support of those who generously ploughed into the fundraising initiative, Cape of Good Hope SPCA was able to raise 50% of their R100,000 goal!

“This race was more than just a run. It was a statement—we will never stop fighting against animal cruelty.

“Your donations keep our inspectors on the road, rescuing animals from abuse and neglect. They provide medical care, food, shelter, and love to animals who have known nothing but pain,” the organisation said.

To all those who contributed, cheered and stood in solidarity with the runners in the fight against cruelty, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA thanks you!

“Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we are unstoppable. Together, we are their voice.”

But their mission is far from over. There’s still time to donate and help them reach their ultimate goal!

Every rand you give makes a difference in an animal’s life. Visit the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s GivenGain page to make a donation.

Sources: Cape of Good Hope SPCA

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 Cape of Good Hope SPCA Runs for Animals in Need, Help Them Reach Their R100,000 Goal appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Godwin, a dedicated employee at a restaurant in Stellenbosch, had never imagined that his ordinary workday would turn into an extraordinary one when a customer unexpectedly blessed him with a most generous tip!

Stellenbosch, South Africa (18 October 2024) – Tipping etiquette in South Africa remains a topic of debate, with opinions ranging from a standard 10% to a more generous amount based on the quality of service.

Wherever you fall on the spectrum, it is important to remember that a small gesture of appreciation can make a world of difference in the lives of the hardworking men and women who serve us with smiles.

In a heartwarming reminder of the life-changing power of kindness that still exists in the nooks and crannies of our country, one lucky waiter was recently surprised with a generous tip of R10,000 from a customer.

Godwin, who has been a waiter at The Thirsty Scarecrow for over a year could have never imagined that getting up for his work shift on Tuesday, 15 October would be met with such generosity.

The restaurant’s Kelly Zetler described Godwin as an absolute star.

“His dedication, positive attitude, and ability to connect with our guests make him an invaluable part of our family.

“Godwin consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every customer has a memorable experience, and his warm, genuine nature is something that everyone appreciates.”

The generous R10,000 tip Godwin received has been a huge blessing for him and those who know him can attest that it will be put to good use and make a big difference in his life.

“The act of kindness from our customer has been a reminder to all of us about the incredible goodwill that exists in the world.

“We are thrilled to see Godwin’s hard work and fantastic service recognised in such a special way,” Kelly added.

Sources: The Thirsty Scarecrow

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 Dedicated Waiter “Godwin” Receives R10,000 Tip From Generous Customer! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Father and son duo Russel and Nic Gill share a love for hockey that not only speaks to the value of family but will also see them representing South Africa on the world stage at the electrifying World Masters Hockey World Cup.

Cape Town, South Africa (18 October 2024) – In an unfolding story of family, passion, and athletic prowess, Russel and Nic Gill, a father-son duo, are set to make waves representing their country together at the World Masters Hockey World Cup in the Mother City!

Masters Hockey SA describes the tournament as the leading event for masters hockey, honouring the commitment and talent of players who thrive in the sport well after their prime years.

From seasoned veterans to rising stars, teams will converge to vie for glory and honour on the international stage.

Russell, who plays for the RSA Men’s Over 65 team, along with Nic from the RSA Men’s Over 40s, both embody the true spirit of Masters hockey forged on the field, shares Masters Hockey SA.

Armed with their hockey sticks and eager to compete in their respective categories, both players remind us of how family can really help us tap into our passions.

More than just a sport, masters hockey offers a unique opportunity for athletes to continue playing the sport they love while maintaining their health and staying connected to a vibrant, supportive community.

“For players like Russell and Nic, it also means sharing unforgettable moments on the international stage, proving that age is just a number for heart and determination.”

Sources: Masters Hockey SA

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 Father and Son Russel and Nic Gill Team Up for World Masters Hockey World Cup Glory appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Like many of us, Liezel van der Westhuizen has experienced setbacks, moments when her confidence wavered and her insecurities were too loud to bear. She shared a glimpse into her lows and how resilience has propelled her to success.

Cape Town, South Africa (18 October 2024) – It may be hard to imagine, but just like many of us, South African keynote speaker and media personality Liezel van der Westhuizen has had her fair share of challenges in life, knocking her confidence and halting her momentum.

We often place public figures on a glamorous pedestal, forgetting that they, too, experience difficulties while navigating this turbulent journey called life.

In a recent post, Liezel bravely opened up about how experiencing negative media attention and hurtful comments from those she trusted tested her resolve, but she refused to be defeated.

“I had to remind myself that I am enough and I am winning,” she wrote.

Liezel further shared her insights into the power of resilience and how it was the key ingredient to her success despite feelings of wanting to throw in the towel.

Insecurities about her height and appearance were also a huge stumbling block that took a long time to overcome.

“I’m a tower of power, enthusiasm, experience, and resilience now…but it hasn’t always been this way. Getting teased about my height in my formative years, really left a mark.

“My hair, my way of dressing, how I speak, and how I stand, have been broken down and critiqued until I felt smaller than an ant.”

Despite wanting to crawl into a hole and disappear, Liezel chose to stand tall and continue to put herself out there.

“Resilience, in people, refuses to be extinguished. It pushed me to put myself out there – baby steps first, but eventually striding with confidence.”

Having emerged stronger on the other side, Liezel encourages South Africans to see setbacks as essential for growth. And that by learning, adapting, and soaring, they can truly thrive.

“Never lose sight of who you are and what makes you unique. Let resilience be your guiding light, navigating you through challenges,” Liezel encourages.

Sources: Liezel van der Westhuizen

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 Liezel van der Westhuizen Gets Real About Overcoming Challenges Through Resilience appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Dlala Africa, a beacon of hope in the Manenberg community, often plagued by violence, is providing holistic support, nurturing cricket talent, and empowering future generations.

Manenberg, South Africa (17 October 2024) – In the heart of Manenberg township in Cape Town, lies a remarkable organisation that is working hard to make a profound difference and provide a holistic approach to supporting young people.

Dlala Africa provides nutrition, after-school homework support, mentorship, and a safe space to play cricket at the Ohio Sports Field.

The organisation offers a place where children can escape the harsh realities of their surroundings plagued by gang violence and discover their potential.

While tension and threats prevail on the periphery, the gangs know that this is a no-go area, allowing boys and girls from the community to meet to play together on this field.

Mentors making a difference

Professional cricket coach Shahied Adonis runs the Dlala Africa NGO program where he offers his time voluntarily, while Taz Mohammed heads up the after-school programme also voluntarily.

Their aim, together with coach Anees, is to keep children off the streets and away from the dangers that lurk nearby.

“Many of the children walk up to 3km to get to the field where they are provided a meal and assisted with schoolwork before heading to the nets for cricket practice.

“Dlala Africa serves meals to 100-120 children daily. And for some, this is their only meal,” shares Stuart Goulding, Dlala Africa Board Member.

Township cricketers soar to greater heights

Over the past few years Taz, Shahied, and Anees have nurtured young talent where top talent is rewarded with a bursary or scholarship to a prestigious school like Bishops Diocesan College, South African College Schools, or Wynberg Boys.

One of the organisation’s shining players, Abdallah Bayoumy has signed his first pro contract with WP Blitz.

Another rising star, Adnaan Lagadien just scored his debut hundred for the South Africa u19 Emerging Team. He went on tour recently with the Bishops Diocesan College’s 1^st cricket team and scored two double-hundreds in Sri Lanka!

“Many other first-division club teams have players who cut their teeth at the Ohio Sports Fields and have been mentored by Shahied before being given opportunities to serve as role models for those who follow.

“This window of opportunity means they can provide hope for their families and give back to the community,” adds Goulding.

Dlala Africa operates on R100,000 annually, serving 100-120 children each day.

The NGO is self-funded and with no principal donors, relies on the goodwill of the community.

“It is such a good cause to support, and Adnaan Lagadien is a testament to the large vein of untapped potential just waiting to be given a fair smack of the ball.”

To support Dlala Africa’s efforts in creating a brighter future for the youth of Manenberg email dlala.africanpo@gmail.com or stuartg@worldonline.co.za.

Sources: Dlala 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 How Dlala Africa is Providing Hope and Nurturing Young Cricket Talent in Manenberg appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Made for More, a beacon of hope for those living with physical limitations, recently organised a successful Boccia Tournament that showcased the incredible spirit and determination of its participants.

Durban, South Africa (17 October 2024) – In their ongoing efforts to inspire and enrich the lives of persons living with disabilities, Made for More recently sparked their zest for life through a fun and competitive Boccia Tournament at the Blue Roof Life Space.

Boccia is a sport where athletes throw, kick, or use a ramp to roll a ball onto the court, aiming to get it closest to a ‘jack’ ball, similar to lawn bowls.

Made for More General Manager, Anele Zama explains that the tactical sport requires focus and strategy.

“It requires a very high level of energy and concentration and takes hours of training to master the game. Boccia is played by people who are wheelchair users or have both their upper and lower limbs somehow affected.”

The sport comes with a wealth of physical and mental benefits including the enhancement of motor skills, coordination, muscle control, decision-making, and strategic thinking.

“Social and emotional benefits include fostering teamwork, communication, a sense of achievement and belonging, strengthening of community bonds, boosts confidence and camaraderie among players,” Anele explains.

The organisation’s tournament, coached by Made for More’s highly experienced coaches, concluded last week as an incredible success with the participation of six teams made up of local schools and homes.

Looking ahead, Made for More aims to build on this successful initiative, with the hopes of one day sending its players to represent KZN and South Africa.

“They really deserve it and they have what it takes to win at higher levels than our internal Boccia Tournaments. But until then, we just want to create awareness within the community, break the stigma, and give people with disabilities those “I can” moments.

“We want to give our players hope and enhance their abilities in a small way that we can, give, encourage and restore hope,” Anele concludes.

Sources: Made for More

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 More Than Just a Game: Boccia Boosts Confidence and Community for Disabled Persons appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A group of 50 individuals united by their love for dance and their desire to make a difference, have triumphed at the IDO Hip Hop World Championships for their masterpiece of choreography “Give Peace a Chance”.

Skopje, North Macedonia (16 October 2024) – Dancers showed up in their numbers to create a breathtaking spectacle at the IDO Hip Hop World Championships 2024 which kicked off with a vibrant Parade of Nations.

The week-long World Championships competition is the largest of its kind on the IDO calendar and attracts an unprecedented 5,000 dancers from around the globe.

Upon landing in Skopje, North Macedonia, each dancer has been carrying the weight of their nation’s hopes, their hearts filled with a mix of excitement and determination.

When things got intense, and it was time to take the stage and showcase weeks, if not months, of rehearsals, South Africa delivered an outstanding performance!

Team South Africa coach Eunice Marais was thrilled to announce that the dance production, Give Peace a Chance, triumphed at the World Championships and the team was crowned first-place champions.

“This piece of choreography, performed by 50 talented dancers from South Africa, spreads a powerful message of hope, peace, and love to the world during troubled times,” shared Eunice.

The team of dancers received their Protea colours before departing for North Macedonia and will return home with a coveted trophy for their stellar performance!

Sources: Eunice Marais

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 Africa Triumphs at IDO Hip Hop World Championships in Skopje appeared first on Good Things Guy.

As 60 eager mothers and their little ones gathered at Isivivana Centre in Khayelitsha, the magic of storytelling was brought to life during a fun and educational event by Nal’ibali and Embrace the Movement for Mothers.

Khayelitsha, South Africa (16 October 2024) – In an enriching effort to nurture bonds through love, books and play,  Nali’bali hosted a fun-filled Moms and Tots event.

Nal’ibali, a beacon of literacy and storytelling, joined forces with Embrace the Movement for Mothers, a social movement that celebrates the power of motherhood, and hosted the magical event which also sought to embrace their mother tongue.

Together, they created a space where mothers and their young children could bond, learn, and grow.

The Isivivana Centre in Khayelitsha, Cape Town was transformed into a world of wonder, filled with eager little minds and hearts.

Attendees got to enthral themselves in the magic of fictional stories, sparking their imaginations through the experiences of some of their favourite characters.

The captivating stories were brought to life by the enthusiastic Nal’ibali Story-Sparkers and Zazi Show’s Bongo Peteni known by toddlers as Sis’Bongo.

It was colourful, it was fun-filled! But beyond the joy and entertainment, this event was a profound celebration of language, culture, and the power of storytelling.

Sources: Nal’ibali

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 Nal’ibali Hosts a Day of Fun and Learning for Mothers and Children in Khayelitsha appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A thoughtful exchange between a construction company contracts manager and a skydiving club owner led to a young man’s first-ever flight and free skydiving opportunity – easily the most exhilarating experience of his life yet!

George, South Africa (16 October 2024) – Lizo Majweta, a young man working for a medium-sized civil construction company, experienced the thrill of a lifetime when he had his first-ever plane flight, coupled with an exhilarating skydiving adventure.

It all began with a simple act of kindness. Phambili Civils’ contracts manager, Werner Nel, struck up a friendly conversation with Henk van Wyk, the owner of a skydiving club, during some construction work his company did at the Mosselbay Airfield. This casual exchange led to an extraordinary opportunity.

“Henk required the use of one of our construction machines for a couple of hours to lower his septic tank. Upon completion of the job, Henk asked me how much he owed me  to which I replied, ‘Would you consider giving me a free tandem skydive?’

“Henk said ‘Of course, I will let you know when there is an opening on one of the flights’,” Werner shared.

Knowing how compassionate his managing director, Niel van Blerk, was, Werner knew he would have no objection to his decision to swap a couple of machine hours to brighten someone’s day.

“Niel is a great leader and an example to all his employees. As the “father” of the company, he always has the best interest of his ± 120 “children” at heart,” Werner added.

And so, the ball was set in motion. Werner then extended the free skydiving opportunity to one of the employees working on the site – many of whom were too nervous to take the plunge.

Just as Werner thought he wouldn’t get any takers, he asked Lizo Majweta if he’d be keen.

“Lizo is one of the junior members of the team and has only been working at the company for about four months. With a big smile on his face, Lizo said he would love the opportunity to skydive.

“I double-checked a couple of times with him to ensure he would not get cold feet when the big moment arrived. He always answered with enthusiasm that he was ready to go.”

Lizo’s big day then arrived on Wednesday, 2 October, and with a leap of faith, an excited Lizo got to soar through the air.

“After the jump, he was all smiles and looked like the happiest person alive,” Werner shared.

What a beautiful reminder of the power of kindness and the thrill of seizing extraordinary opportunities!

Sources: 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 Kindness Takes Flight: Construction Employee “Lizo” Gets Surprised With Skydiving Adventure appeared first on Good Things Guy.