The fans have spoken once again, only this time in James Blunt’s favour – He aimed to reach number one on the charts, and he failed! But boy, did he celebrate the moment!

Global (22 October 2024) – James Blunt had his very own jump-on-the-sofa moment this week in celebration of his album not hitting number one on the charts. You might be thinking, that doesn’t sound right, and you would be right! James was celebrating the failure because now he doesn’t need to legally change his name.

He has started a challenge to get his album ‘Back to Bedlam’ back on top of the charts, and if it hit #1, he would legally change his name to whatever the most popular suggestion is. The suggestion was to change his name to Blunty McBluntface.

The album, which includes fan favourites like ‘You’re Beautiful’, ‘Goodbye My Lover’, and ‘High’, was reproduced in honour of the anniversary. The goal is to get it to number one by the end of October.

Every artist hopes to have their album reach number one but in James’ case, he was absolutely relieved when the news broke that his album had failed to hit the mark.

Take a look at his hilarious reaction below:

Sources: James Blunt 

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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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The 2025 Australian Firefighters Calendar is here, and it’s more than just sizzling photos – it’s a powerful force for change, pairing Australia’s bravest heroes with adorable animals to raise millions for life-saving causes across the globe.

Australia (21 October 2023) – The Australian Firefighters Calendar is back for 2025, and it’s bringing the heat once again! This year’s edition promises to be bigger, better, and cuter than ever, with a unique theme that pairs the country’s bravest heroes with some of the most adorable animals you’ve ever seen. From playful puppies to cuddly koalas, these firefighters are showing their softer side while supporting fantastic causes. It’s not just a calendar – it’s a celebration of courage, compassion, and community spirit.

For years, the Australian Firefighters Calendar has captured hearts across the world, and many of our Good Things Guy readers eagerly wait for the announcement of its release. Though we don’t get the calendars physically in South Africa, our annual article is the next best thing!

Since its launch in 1993, the Australian Firefighters Calendar has raised over $3.5 million for charities across Australia and beyond. And 2025 is no different – the calendar will continue supporting vital causes, from wildlife rescues to children fighting cancer. This year, the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital is one of the proud recipients of the calendar’s charity donations, helping rescue and rehabilitate injured wildlife.

As Dr Bree Talbot, Head Wildlife Veterinary Surgeon at the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital, beautifully puts it: “This generous support allows us to continue saving Australian wildlife and making a lasting difference.”

But it’s not just about the pictures – these firefighters have become global conservation ambassadors, using their fame to raise awareness for causes like the protection of Australian wildlife. The 2025 calendar editions feature over 25 firefighters from aviation, military, and urban fire services. Each month reveals heart-warming photos of these heroes with animals like koalas, kittens, and even horses.

There are five different editions this year, so there’s a calendar for every animal lover out there!

With the 2025 Australian Firefighters Calendar, we get a feel-good mix of bravery, kindness, and a whole lot of cuteness. What more could you ask for? Grab a cup of tea, enjoy the pictures, and let’s celebrate these everyday heroes who are making the world a better place, one adorable moment at a time!

To see all our previous Australian Firefighter Calender articles, click here.

Sources: Australian Firefighters Calendar 

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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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Esther Mahlangu’s new mural is dedicated to the spirit of uBuntu! Planted at a London garden gallery, its larger-than-life stature stands tall amid the greenery, giving Londoners something bright, beautiful, and proudly South African!

London, England (20 October 2024) — After her work enjoyed its fair share of the limelight and celebrity appreciation in the USA, Esther Mahlangu’s new mural is taking up space in London!

At nearly 90-years-young, the acclaimed Ndebele artist continues to share her bold and bright geometric masterpieces with the world. Her new mural, titled ‘Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu’ is an ode to the South African philosophy of uBuntu. In fact, its translation from Ndebele to English reads ‘I am because you are’.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Esther Mahlangu (@esthermahlanguart)

The new mural has been ‘planted’ at Serpentine Gallery’s North Garden based on West Carriage Drive, where it boasts the artist’s immediately recognisable patterning and confident style. Painted across 16 wooden panels, the energy of the new mural is larger than life, much like the uBuntu ethos.

Simultaneously, Esther Mahlangu is also the talk of London’s art scene in a different part of the city. At a solo exhibition at the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, Esher’s work brought an immediate rush of vibrance and life to the walls of Melrose Gallery in the West Wing!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Esther Mahlangu (@esthermahlanguart)

Meanwhile, in another creative news piece that made us feel proudly South African, artist Jake Michael Singer has been given the opportunity to represent our country through sculpture at a prestigious event overlooking the magnificent Pyramids of Giza! Jake’s sculpture, We Will Meet Again in the Sky’ is a must-see, and you can learn more about it here.

Sources: Email Submission

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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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Matthew and Nicholas McGregor launched the Kesho Collective as a way to unite South Africans in London and raise funds for charity in SA.

London, United Kingdom (18 October 2024) – Nicholas McGregor and Matthew McGregor, cousins from South Africa now living in the United Kingdom, have found a great way to unite the South African community in London, while still supporting charitable causes in South Africa. The duo are creating meaningful impact through their non-profit Kesho Collective, which was founded earlier this year.

Living in the UK, the cousins realised they could harness the green and gold community and the Ubuntu that runs deep within every South African’s to give back to their selected charities the Mzansi’s Rugby Academy and the Rosey’s Crèche and Daycare.

Through the hosting of events, many themed around the exciting rugby games our Springboks play, Nicholas and Matthew are able to collect donations and raise funds from event proceeds that go directly to the charities. They have had great success so far, having hosted two sold-out events so far and a third on the card for November.

These events provide South Africans living in the UK with the chance to celebrate their culture, support their team, and give back to their home country. It’s a reminder that no matter how far away they are, South Africans can still come together to make a difference.

How It Works

Kesho Collective raises funds primarily through monthly donations and events. Their passion for South Africa is echoed in their love for the Springboks, and they have harnessed that enthusiasm to create a community of rugby-loving South Africans living in London. Through highly successful screening events for Springbok matches, they have brought people together, sold out venues, and raised substantial amounts for charity.

They have an upcoming event for the Springboks v England rugby game on the 16th of November 2024, should you be keen to join, you can find out more here. Note the funds for the event will go directly to the Mzansi’s Rugby Academy and Rosey’s Crèche.

The Mzansi’s Rugby Academy is based in Port Alfred and supports local children through rugby and education. The academy is run by Barry Scharneck and Alex Floyd-Douglas. They work with teens from the age of 13-18 by providing them with rugby training, transport to fixtures, and educational support. Soon, they will have a fully-fledge programme for women’s rugby too.

For the youth to take part in the academy, they need to show academic interest by keeping their grades up. This ensures that they get a balanced academic and sporting education.

“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved so far, particularly being able to fund and support a full rugby sevens festival for youth in the Eastern Cape with Mzansi’s Rugby Academy. It’s amazing to give these young athletes visibility on SuperSport Schools, and we truly believe in the power of sport to uplift communities and help South Africa reach its full potential.” – Matthew McGregor

Rosey Mbikwana, runs the Rosey’s Crèche and Daycare which is based in Mthatha. The daycare provides a safe space and meals for children while their parents are at work. Rosey’s ultimate goal is to offer these children better educational facilities.

Through the Kesho Collective, they are fundraising to build a new classroom for the crèche, with the hope of completing it for the new school year.

“We’re incredibly proud to be a part of such life-changing initiatives,” said Nicholas McGregor. “Through the support of our London community, we’re able to send vital funds to South Africa and make a real difference where it matters most.”

For more information about Kesho Collective or to get involved, visit keshocollective.com

Sources: Supplied

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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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South African conservationist Paul Gardiner’s new series ‘Natural Born Runners’ is set to take us on something of a conservation ‘marathon’ across the world! Paul is running all over the world’s last wilderness areas to meet wildlife heroes near and far:

Global (15 October 2024) — Conservationist and eco-tourism expert Paul Gardiner is taking us all on the run of multiple lifetimes thanks to his new series, ‘Natural Born Runners’.

Set to launch during the COP16 summit (AKA, the most important biodiversity event that unites eco-leaders across the world), ‘Natural Born Runners’ is set to take us all on a conservation adventure into and through some of the last wilderness areas in the world focused on the theme ‘Peace with Nature’ in line with COP16.

From icy terrains to open grasslands, Paul’s running shoes will take him across the world in a massive effort to learn about what conservationists are getting up to in their effort to prolong species’ environments and lifetimes.

A deep-rooted passion, Paul was born into a family for whom conservation efforts like rewilding were a labour of love. His father was a visionary who transformed Shamwari Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape into one of the world’s leading conservation success stories; helping reintroduce lions, rhinos and elephants back into their natural habitat.

As such, Paul begins his trek in the Eastern Cape; retracing these efforts. From there, he ventures to Scotland’s Alladale Wilderness Reserve all the way to North America to learn of the inspiring restoration of the American bison there.

‘Natural Born Runners’ will also see him participate in Run Richmond 16.19—a race founded by Oscar-nominated actor and activist Djimon Hounsou (Amistad, Gladiator).

Along for the ride is Paul’s cameraman and aspiring wildlife filmmaker Christian Antoine, who makes up for what he lacks in endurance running through comedy and edutainment.

The series is set to be launched on YouTube as a way to connect with the next generation of nature’s guardians—young people.

“We need to inspire the youth to take ownership of the planet’s future, and YouTube is where they engage,” says Paul.

“If we’re going to make peace with nature, the next generation needs to be at the forefront.”

Watch: ‘Natural Born Runners’ Trailer

Sources: Email Submission

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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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It’s official: James Blunt fans have decided on his new name, but they still need to make his album ‘Back to Bedlam’ reach number one on the charts for him to actually change his legal name.

Global (14 October 2024) – If you missed it, James Blunt set a challenge for his fans to get his album ‘Back to Bedlam’, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this month, to the top of the charts. As a reward for his efforts, he legally changed his name to whatever the masses voted for.

The album, which has fan favourites like ‘You’re Beautiful’, ‘Goodbye My Lover’ and ‘High’, has been reproduced in honour of the anniversary, and the goal is to get it to number one by the end of October.

Naturally, it can be found on all major streaming services, so if you are keen to get in on the fun – start listening right this moment, and very soon, James won’t be James anymore!

It really is clever marketing! So then… What is the new name?

Well, the votes are in, and the name everyone has chosen is “Blunty McBluntface”.

The people have spoken – if the 20th Anniversary Edition of Back to Bedlam is Number 1 next Friday, my new name will legally be… pic.twitter.com/CoMsjFJpy8

— James Blunt (@JamesBlunt) October 11, 2024

The people have spoken! While we agree that the imagination for this one was slightly lacking (we are still team James Beige), it’s so wholesome seeing James engage with his fans in such a funny manner. The world needs more public figures who are not scared to have a bit of fun on social media.

Sources: James Blunt

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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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South Africa’s world-famous songbird and soprano Pretty Yende is the first opera singer to become an ambassador for the prestigious fashion house Dior!

Global (11 October 2024) — Prestigious fashion house Dior and South Africa have enjoyed many a moment together in 2024. From showcasing Capetonian fashion brand Earth Age’s crochet hats on a runway in Paris to incorporating art by Karoo-raised artist Hylton Nel, Dior is having a South African moment. But, perhaps the most exciting of Dior-South Africa dates has been Pretty Yende’s appointment as an ambassador for the house—a first of its kind!

The famed South African songbird and soprano is the first opera singer to ever become an ambassador for the fashion house; a match somewhat made in heaven.

When you think of Pretty Yende, you think of classic, feminine, bold, and elegant elements that are all central to the fashion house and Maria Grazia Chiuru’s designs.

 

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A post shared by Dior Official (@dior)

 

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A post shared by PRETTY YENDE (@pretty_yende_official)

The bill is only fighting for the woman who was dubbed one of the Most Influential Africans of 2023 and sang at King Charles III’s coronation.

“Being enveloped by your creations has been a true honor and I am in sweet anticipation for what’s to come,” (sic) Pretty Yende said in praising Maria.

Aptly, her ambassadorship has run alongside another ‘Mama I made it’ achievement for the soprano—her role as Queen Mary in Donizetti’s Maria Stuarda opera. Queen Mary of Scots was also known to have a keen interest in fashion during her life in the Renaissance.

Meanwhile, in other stunning news from South African songbirds, the Ndlovu Youth Choir’s African twist on the operatic classic ‘Nessun Dorma’ is an absolute must-hear that South Africans all over simply can’t get enough of!

Sources: Various (Linked Above)

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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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Imagine a world where technology not only makes our jobs easier but also delivers solutions we never even dreamed of—welcome to the future of AI, where your next favourite podcast could be hosted by voices that aren’t even human. This groundbreaking tech is not just changing the game, it’s rewriting the rules!

Johannesburg, South Africa (07 October 2024) – With technology constantly advancing, it’s easy to feel like we’re already living in the future. But every now and then, a new innovation emerges that doesn’t just improve our lives—it transforms them. This is exactly what’s happening with the latest AI tools, designed to make our jobs easier, more creative, and packed with solutions we didn’t even know we needed. From enhancing productivity to giving us access to information in ways we never dreamed of, AI is changing the game.

And now, Google’s latest AI-powered podcasting tool, NotebookLM, is leading the charge, and it’s beyond unreal. Seriously, it will blow your mind!

If you haven’t heard of NotebookLM, brace yourself. This tool is revolutionising how we consume and create content, specifically in the podcasting world.

According to the Wall Street Journal, “With this Google tool, you can make a show about any topic you could possibly imagine. The hosts aren’t human. You won’t believe your ears.”

Yes, you read that right! NotebookLM allows you to create an entire podcast with AI-generated hosts who sound so real you’ll want to hang out with them. The hosts bring a calming tone, seamless banter, and an almost encyclopedic knowledge about literally any topic under the sun. Whether it’s space exploration, ancient civilisations, or the latest in tech innovations, these AI hosts have got you covered.

Earlier this year, I attended a global media forum where AI technology was the star of the conversation. Experts from all over the world shared their thoughts on how AI isn’t something we should fear but rather a tool we should embrace. The key message? AI isn’t here to take over—it’s here to help. The possibilities with AI are truly endless, and the future of media, education, and creativity will thrive if we utilise it wisely.

So, here we are, embracing it!

Introducing the Good Things Guy AI Podcast! Yes, you heard that right! We’re so excited to announce that we’re launching the Good Things Guy AI Podcast, powered by AI technology just like Google’s NotebookLM. Every week, we’ll bring you an inspiring podcast that wraps up the week’s most heartwarming and uplifting stories.

Why? Because we believe in embracing the future. Staying ahead of the curve means pushing boundaries, trying new things, and adopting innovative technologies like AI to make our work better and more enjoyable for you. Imagine listening to a podcast filled with positive vibes while you’re driving, cleaning, or just taking a break from the hustle of life. That’s what we’re delivering, and we’re so thrilled to be doing it with the help of AI.

Listen to our introductory episode below:

Every weekly episode of our AI-powered podcast (published on Fridays) will be packed with the top feel-good stories, positive energy, and moments that remind you of all the good happening in South Africa. This is our way of keeping you connected to the news that matters most while also embracing the future of media.

So, what are you waiting for? Tune in, subscribe, and let the positive vibes flow wherever you are! Because if embracing new technology means we get to share more good news with you, then we know we’re on the right path.

Listen to Episode 2 below:

Sources: NotebookLM 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sources: 2024 Lasker~Bloomberg Public Service Award

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

The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards remind us that laughter—especially when inspired by the quirky antics of animals—has the power to brighten our days and inspire us to care for the creatures we share this planet with.

Global (03 October 2024) – There’s something about a good laugh that brightens even the gloomiest day. Whether it’s a goofy animal face or a candid, comical moment captured in the wild, the joy of laughter reminds us of the happiness that surrounds us—even in the animal kingdom.

In between life’s challenges, the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards offer a delightful reminder that humour transcends barriers, connecting us to nature in unexpected ways.

Founded in 2015 by Paul Joynson-Hicks MBE, the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards are all about bringing smiles to faces while raising awareness for wildlife conservation. It all began when Paul, working as a wildlife photographer in East Africa, stumbled across some particularly hilarious shots in his portfolio—like an eagle peeking at him through its legs and a cheeky warthog flaunting its bottom. These images sparked not only laughter but also an epiphany: humour is a powerful way to engage people with the natural world and the very real threats facing these animals.

And so, the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards were born, transforming what started as a humorous moment into a global movement for wildlife conservation.

Since then, the competition has flourished, inviting submissions from both novice and expert photographers worldwide, all competing to capture those side-splitting moments of animal brilliance. The concept is simple yet profound—funny photos of animals cut through the noise and tug at our hearts, encouraging empathy and connection without the need for words.

Each year, the competition sees a delightful influx of images from across the globe, and South African photographers and wildlife consistently shine. The 2024 edition is no different, with some of the year’s most hilarious and heartwarming entries featuring South Africa’s iconic wildlife in all its glory. From a lioness “kakking out” her husband to a hippo with a “wig” and even a cheetah playing “hide and go seek”, these photographers capture not just the humour of the moment but also the essence of the animals themselves.

You can see all the finalists here.

What makes these photos so effective is their universal appeal. No language barriers. No heavy message to unpack. Just pure, unfiltered joy that brings people together.

As Paul Joynson-Hicks puts it, “To really understand animals and the issues that affect them, you need to empathize with them as fellow inhabitants of the same planet.”

And these photos do just that. By showcasing the lighter side of wildlife, the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards invite us to laugh while also gently encouraging us to care for these creatures and their environments.

But it’s not all fun and games. Behind the laughs is a mission to educate and raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation.

As co-founder Tom Sullam explains, “Through the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards, we aim to widen understanding and engagement of a sustainable world—and wildlife conservation specifically—for the preservation of biodiversity and the health and enrichment of everyone on Earth.”

It’s a bold mission, but one that’s making a difference, year by year, smile by smile.

And so, as the 2024 competition begins to wrap up, we can only smile at the thought of the next batch of hilarious, lovable, and downright silly animal antics that will soon grace our screens. Because if there’s one thing the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards have proven, it’s that laughter is truly contagious—and when it’s sparked by nature, it can change the world.

Sources: Eben Etzebeth

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