Los Angeles’ Angel City Chorale is set to sing their hearts out for the Amy Foundation, set to benefit scores of young, underprivileged South Africans.

Los Angeles, USA (22 October 2024) — The City of Los Angeles is preparing for a special concert to benefit South Africa’s own The Amy Foundation thanks to a team-up with the Angel City Chorale—a premier choral group!

The Amy Foundation is well-respected by many people both in South Africa and America. Founded in honour of Amy Biehl—an activist who lived decades ago and was dedicated to supporting the advancement of democracy and equality in South Africa ahead of the 1994 elections.

Amy lost her life in 1993 in Gugulethu due to political mob violence—a loss felt the world over. Her parents extended the epitome of the new South Africa’s ethos—an incredible act of forgiveness—and set up the Amy Biehl Trust (now the Amy Foundation) in honour of their daughter’s belief in a better South Africa.

Today, the Amy Foundation supports youth empowerment through education, afterschool support, as well as arts and sports programmes, breaking the cycles of poverty and violence through opportunity and hope. Over 1,400 young people benefit from their work every day.

The benefit concert will be raising funds for the Amy Foundation’s programmes underway in 7 centres in underserved communities.

The people and voices of Los Angeles coming together for South Africans is a reminder of Amy’s legacy: that no matter how different our backgrounds may be, we can’t have a better world unless it’s a better world for everyone.

For our readers in the US, the concert is on 27 October 2024, and you can grab tickets here.

Back home, you can support the Amy Foundation in a myriad of ways, like supporting their products, bistro or volunteering your time. 

Sources: The Amy Foundation 

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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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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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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 Africa isn’t just a country – it’s a living, breathing reminder of resilience, joy, and undeniable spirit. Despite our challenges, we are a nation that thrives on laughter, community, and an unwavering love for life.

Johannesburg, South Africa (22 October 2024) – Let’s be real: South Africa isn’t perfect. We’ve got our challenges – and plenty of them. But somehow, despite the ups and downs, we are an incredible nation filled with a unique kind of magic. Whether it’s the humour we use to laugh through tough times, our ability to “maak a plan,” or the warmth of our people, South Africans have something special that’s hard to match.

A tweet by ShellsPemBroke has been giving people all the feels. It’s a thread about why South Africa is so f**king great, and it’s still spreading like wildfire on X (Twitter). It’s the kind of feel-good content that makes you want to shout from the rooftops: “YES! THIS is why I love this place.”

Recently, Good Things Guy had the pleasure of sitting down with ShellsPemBroke, and if you think she’s proudly South African online, she’s even more so in person. She believes wholeheartedly that we are the greatest nation in the world… and we couldn’t agree more! Her tweet, which has become a movement of its own, started with just seven reasons why South Africa is so f**king great. But since then, people have jumped in, adding their own reasons, and the list has grown far beyond 100!

Here’s the original post that started it all:

“I am a South African. And I think we’re kinda f**king great. Sorry, but this is factual. I live in an underrated country. Here’s a thread of why I feel this way. Spoiler: you’re gonna hate some of these.”

Reason No 1: Us.

South Africans. That’s it. No sarcasm. No joke. We are THE BEST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD. You can make friends with literally ANYONE you meet on a daily basis. We really like liking people. Accidentally compliment someone’s nails, and you’re basically in their will.

Reason No 2: Potholes.

Say what you want. We are some of the most cautious and observant drivers in the world. At no point do we feel comfortable feeling comfortable driving. The lack of infrastructure means we could and should be on the set of Mission Impossible.

Reason No 3: Comedy.

OMFG THE COMEDY!!! Who in the world laughs at themselves as much as we do? Honestly? The world may be burning, but we are toasting marshmallows. How are SA comedians not more popular???

Reason No 4: The scenery.

F**k ALL THE WAY OFF. I mean. Come on. My sister does the hiking stuff and every vid she posts makes me damp in my pants. It’s not just Cape Town. It’s f**king EVERYWHERE. Urban chic. Mountains for days. Animals the rest of the world drools over. F**king hell.

Reason No 5: Zombie-apocalypse-readiness.

Listen, you know we’re prepped to deal without electricity and basic public services. When the world goes to shit, the Saffas will be claiming the planet. I can filter my own water, thank you.

Reason No 6: Sportsball!

Never EVER f**k with a South African and a placement or a gold medal. We take this sh*t SERIOUSLY. And we’re GOOD at it! Respect our prowess!

Reason No 7: It’s us again.

We’re really the best. Seriously, your mate, your family, your car guard, your waiter: they are all the absolute best. Take some time and find out. South Africans make South Africa. And we’re so f**king cool.

The replies started rolling in immediately, with people jumping on the feel-good train and adding their own reasons. Here are just a few:

“It’s the people. We are so f**king cool.”

“Because… us.”

“Chesa Nyama.”

“Don’t forget the wine!”

“We are a family. South Africans are siblings in the true sense. We fight every other day amongst ourselves. But try one of us and find out real quick.”

“Despite our politicians, we are blessed.”

“If I bump my own toe, a stranger will say sorry.”

“Hulle weet nie wat ons weet nie.”

“We are the best in everything.”

“Lalela!!! South Africans are the only country that starts a sentence in English and completes it in any of the other official languages. Kumnandi ukuba lana.”

“We have the ability to ‘maak a plan.'”

“South Africa is WAY underrated.”

“The food! All the food.”

“The Bokke.”

“We are free.”

“We know how to laugh.”

It’s clear that this list could go on forever. There’s just so much that makes South Africa truly unique. From our ability to laugh through the hard times to our deep sense of community, we’re not just surviving – we’re thriving. And despite everything, we remain a nation full of life, love, and spirit. The optimism in ShellsPemBroke’s tweet has sparked a movement of appreciation for this wonderfully complex, frustrating, beautiful place we call home.

So if you ever need a reminder of why South Africa is so f**king great, just take a scroll through this thread. You’ll find reason after reason to fall in love with the place all over again. And the best part? It’s growing every day – because there are just that many reasons to love South Africa.

Sources: ShellsPemBroke 

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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 100 Reasons Why South Africa Is So F**king Great appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The arts are an integral part of South African culture, meshing our past, present and future into a single medium. At the recent Canvas and Community celebration, we got to imagine a South Africa that does better for the art economy.

Cape Town, South Africa (21 October 2024) — Art is an integral part of South African culture. For our country, it’s a story-telling medium that often merges commentary on our socio-political, history, heritage and questions of who we could be as a nation. It’s also how we honour our unique relationship with wildlife and our natural surroundings while visualising the problems these cherished parts of our environment face. And, of course, it’s a means to inject pride into our communities through murals and public art of different mediums. It’s our past, present and future meshed into a single field.

So, if art has such an important role to play across different borders of the South African experience, the question persists: how is South Africa supporting our artists? And, are we doing enough?

Canvas and Community: An Example of an Artistically Inclusive South Africa

Recently, I attended an evening dubbed Canvas and Community as hosted by the Century City Conference Centre, writes GTG’s Ashleigh. It was an evening any art lover would’ve adored; spoiled with excellent music (from a staff member who got to perform opera to the brilliant classical trio The Muses and Cape Town’s ever-talented Jimmy Nevis), secret ‘fashion shows’ and, of course, a lot of local art.

Fadiel Herman’s street-art-infused paintings, Jaret Loggenberg’s powerful portrayals of the female form and Logan Marlon’s designs were all on full display amongst other talents. The spirit of Soweto was ever present thanks to Moeketsi Moahloli’s mixed media works, while Sarah Danes Jarrett’s portraits left mouths agape (and not just on the paintings).

It was thrilling to see so many different art forms sharing a single space outside of a designated gallery, exhibition or traditional arts festival.

I couldn’t ignore the thought that this is how more South African spaces can and should honour the arts to whom we all owe such a big thank you for preserving and pushing our culture forward.

Local Businesses, it’s Time to Step Up.

Because local art is the tangible mix that’s produced once the South African melting pot is poured out, it only makes sense that it should be shared and appreciated in more spaces beyond those traditionally designated for the arts. There are, after all, only so many galleries and so many residencies available. But how do we grow the space?

One way to do this is for more businesses, especially those up the tourism and hospitality alleys, to invest in our local artists. This isn’t just a means for aesthetic value and measure; it’s a gateway for the world to see who we are.

When businesses become platforms for creative development, wonderful things can happen. Just look at the likes of Karabo Poppy, who is a master at merging her art with branding alignments.

Plug the Art Drain

Just as it is with many students part of South Africa’s ‘brain drain’ dilemma, many of our artists are forced to travel outside of our country in hopes that they’ll get better opportunities. The Free State Art Collective rightly shared that there is a big gap in support for local artists in communities like theirs, while showcases like Alchemy aptly indicated that local artists should be given the chance to claim the spotlight before they go overseas.

The bottom line is that if South Africa wants to boost our art economy, there needs to be a push to carve out spaces for it in other avenues of business. Whether that means from a showcasing and collection curating perspective, creative connection events perspective, brand and partnership efforts, or initiatives that beautify our spaces whilst giving artists a boost.

It matters, as so fashionably highlighted at Canvas and Community, because our culture does. Because we cannot be proudly South African without the arts. And we cannot have a thriving arts economy without South African businesses proudly making room for the patrons of our culture.

Sources: GTG

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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 Canvas and Community: How SA Can Support Its Art Economy! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Ackermans is bringing the joy again with their annual Baby of the Year competition, launching an irresistibly cute campaign that taps into “baby language” and celebrates the magic of parenthood, play, and connection!

Johannesburg, South Africa (21 October 2024) – It’s that time of year again! Ackermans has brought back one of South Africa’s most adored competitions—the annual Baby of the Year!

This year, the campaign kicked off with an irresistibly cute advert introducing a fun new “tool” designed to understand “Baby Language,” and it’s sure to put a smile on every parent’s face.

The Baby of the Year competition has become a much-anticipated event for many parents. It’s more than just a chance to showcase their little ones—it’s an opportunity for their baby to become an Ackermans model and win amazing vouchers!

“Back by popular demand, this competition gives parents the opportunity to celebrate their bundles of joy in true Ackermans style. This year, the stakes are high as Ackermans searches for those charming personalities who love to have fun, express themselves and of course, have a lot to say,” shares Bronwyn Pretorius, Chief of Marketing at Ackermans.

The advert that’s stealing hearts features media personality Sne Dladla, who spends time with some of South Africa’s cutest babies, asking them all kinds of questions. The twist? An “AI” program steps in to interpret what the babies might be saying, and the results are as hilarious as they are adorable! But here’s the catch: “AI” in this campaign doesn’t stand for “Artificial Intelligence”—it’s “Ackermans Intelligence,” a fun nod to technology with a heavy dose of baby cuteness.

While the AI interpretations are, of course, not real, it’s impossible not to laugh at how accurate some of the “responses” seem to be. You might even find yourself wondering if the babies truly had those thoughts in mind!

“In light of global conversations around the use of AI and creativity, and what it means for us humans, we set out to purposefully tackle this topic through this new content piece. We believe now more than ever we should celebrate connection and joy. As a leading retailer in baby and kids apparel, our product offering is designed with play in mind, and we want to encourage parents to engage and cherish these unique and special moments with their little ones,” adds Pretorius.

Want your little one to be in the running for the title of Ackermans Baby of the Year? Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Dress your baby in their cutest Ackermans outfit
Step 2: Capture a picture or video that shows off your baby’s unique personality while rocking their Ackermans look
Step 3: Upload your picture or video using the hashtag #MyAckermansBaby2024 on Facebook, TikTok, or Instagram
Step 4: Tag Ackermans and make sure you’re following them on all their social platforms!

This year’s competition is all about celebrating those unforgettable baby moments that bring us joy and connection. So, whether your little one is a budding comedian or has the world’s sweetest smile, don’t miss out on the chance to make some incredible memories—and maybe even see your baby shining on Ackermans’ next campaign!

Sources: Ackermans

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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 Clifton Surf Lifesaving Club spent time representing South Africa in Australia for the 2024 Lifesaving World Championships – and filled it with history-making moments!

South Africa (20 October 2024) – Clifton Surf Lifesaving Club’s first-ever team to compete in Australia delivered remarkable performances, breaking new ground and securing impressive results at the 2024 Lifesaving World Championships. With a squad of 27 passionate Youth, Open, and Masters athletes, Clifton proudly etched its name into the history books.

Historic Firsts for Clifton:

• First time Clifton has sent a team to compete in Australia
• First-ever Open Ladies team to compete at World Champs
• First-ever Female Masters athlete to compete at World Champs
• First-ever Youth team to compete at World Champs

Open Competition Success:

Final Placings (out of 142 clubs):

• 18th in Ocean
• 20th in Pool
• 19th Overall

The Clifton Open team of 15 athletes showed resilience and heart, competing fiercely against the world’s best. In the Pool events, athletes set new personal bests, with standout performances from Kendra Du Toit, who reached both A and B Finals in individual events. The Open Ladies relay team achieved victory in a B Final and reached both A and B Finals in other relays, significantly boosting Clifton’s campaign.

In the Ocean events, teamwork shone as the Ladies Tube Rescue and Men’s Beach Relay teams both finished 4th. Samuel Booysen also placed 4th in the Beach Sprints, and the Ladies Board Rescue team secured a B Final 5th place finish. In a gruelling Men’s Long Run Relay, Clifton claimed an admirable 6th place.

Youth Competition Triumphs:

Final Placings (out of 91 clubs):

• 6th in Ocean
• 9th in Stillwater
• 8th Overall

Clifton’s Junior Boys excelled on the beach, Jake Hutton stood out with back-to-back World Champion titles in Flags and Beach Sprints. Clifton had three athletes reaching the Flags A final: 14-year-old Kyto Tuohy, in his first Youth competition, finished 4th, while Sam Abold took 6th. In the B sprint finals, Sam placed 2nd, Kyto 7th, and Josh Huntingford 8th. The Youth Boys Beach Relay team of Josh, Kyto, Mathew Pincente, and Sam won the World Championship, highlighting an outstanding performance by Clifton’s Youth squad.

Keira Van Heerden broke three National Records in the 50m Manikin Carry (twice), 200m Obstacle, and 100m Rescue Medley, setting new U17, U19, and Open Women’s National records in the final. Having competed with the National team earlier in the week, her achievements were exceptional.

Masters Competition Highlights:

Christina Mallion, Clifton’s sole Masters competitor, earned a bronze medal in the Surf Ski event and secured several top 8 finishes across board, beach sprints, long run, and flags.

Reflections and Gratitude:

“As a group, we came here to learn, and we experienced an amazing calibre of racing while forming lasting friendships. We left our mark on this competition with our spirit, and we can be truly proud of our final placings.” – James Thomson, Clifton Head of Sport.

Clifton athletes returned home with pride, eager to continue building on their successes at future world championships.

“On behalf of Clifton Surf Lifesaving Club, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made our journey to the 2024 Lifesaving World Championships possible. From our dedicated coaches, management, and support staff to our generous sponsors, Velocity Trade and PKF, your belief and commitment fuelled our success. We are proud to have represented our community on the world stage and look forward to building on this incredible experience.” – Ed Tuohy, Clifton Chairman

Clifton’s participation in the 2024 Lifesaving World Championships marked a significant milestone in the club’s history, and their achievements have set the stage for even greater success in the future.

Sources: Website 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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Charity shops are gearing up to start festive season sales, and if you can donate your second-hand toys, you could be helping parents on a budget!

South Africa (17 October 2024) – While your spring cleaning may be in full swing, we have a suggestion that will make a huge difference this festive season. A post has been doing the rounds on social media, encouraging people to start donating second-hand toys to charity shops so that parents who don’t have much can purchase something in time for Christmas.

Charity shops are a great asset to society because they offer a resource for finding affordable alternatives while giving back. They are a great option for people who have stepped away from typical retailers and need a good source of second-hand items.

Many parents tend to wait until after Father Christmas (aka Santa) has visited to do a toy cleanup, but this is your gentle reminder to sweep through the toy box a little earlier this year.

Times are tough, and everyone is struggling. For many, buying a new doll that costs a week’s worth of groceries just isn’t feasible this year. Your child’s extras could help spread joy even further this year.

So if you are keen, get cleaning! Make it a family activity (if your children won’t become overwhelmed by a toy purge). Think of toys that are just collecting dust, that are no longer age-appropriate or were gifted to your child, but they already had something similar. Just make sure the toy is in working condition.

For families in need, you can find our list of our must-visit charity shops here. These same charities will also gladly welcome your donations so be sure to check out which is closest to your home.

Sources: Good Things Guy 

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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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From the vibrant streets of Soweto to sharing the global stage with British rock band Coldplay, the Mzansi Youth Choir has defied expectations and captured hearts worldwide. They’ve added their African flair to the band’s latest album, Moon Music, and created musical magic!

New York, United States of America (16 October 2024) – The past two weeks have seen a stunning mash-up of African choral talent meets British rock as the Mzansi Youth Choir has been afforded the amazing opportunity to perform with Coldplay!

From humble beginnings in Soweto, the choir’s journey has captured the hearts of South Africans one performance at a time.

Miles away from home, the award-winning choir recently tapped into a whole new musical adventure which saw them collaborating with Coldplay in New York to create magic in the studio.

The choir also got to be a part of the band’s latest album launch for Coldplay’s tenth studio album, Moon Music.

Memories of a lifetime have been in the works with Coldplay as the Mzansi Youth Choir were also invited to join them again at the Rose Bowl and feature on two of their new tracks titled Jupiter and Aeterna.

From making it to the America’s Got Talent finals performance to singing Fix You live in front of thousands, every step has felt like a dream for the talented choir singers.

“Most recently, we had the incredible chance to perform on QVC and put together a Zulu verse for We Pray just hours before the show, composed by Sidumo Nyamezele. The message of faith and carrying good energy rings close to our hearts.

“We’re so grateful for all these experiences and can’t wait to see what’s next,” the Mzansi Youth Choir shared.

Sources: Mzansi Youth Choir

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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.

The post Mzansi Youth Choir Makes Waves in the Big Apple, Collaborates With Coldplay on New Album! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

In a city where the signs of decay are hard to ignore, the “Jozi vs Jozi” account has become both an irritation and a force for good – exposing Johannesburg’s decline with stark “before and after” photos while (hopefully) igniting a movement of citizens determined to reclaim their city.

Johannesburg, South Africa (15 October 2024) – Johannesburg, a city known for its boundless energy and opportunities, is officially described on the City of Joburg website as a place that “still attracts those who want to realise their dreams and achieve success.” The city’s mission, according to the website, is to “foster citizen-centric ethos through service excellence” and ensure “a well-governed, managed, and developed City with enhanced levels of accountability and citizen participation.” Their vision focuses on a “clean, green, healthy and safe urban environment.”

However, if you ask many Joburg residents today, these ideals seem far from reality.

For years now, Johannesburg has faced challenges with service delivery, safety, and general urban decay. While the city’s promises of governance and pride are noble, many would argue that they aren’t being fully realised.

Enter “Jozi vs Jozi“, a viral X (formerly Twitter) account that has sparked a different kind of conversation—a conversation about ownership, responsibility, and hope for a brighter Jozi.

The Rise of “Jozi vs Jozi”

Started in September 2024, “Jozi vs Jozi” has taken social media by storm, amassing over 22,000 followers in just a few weeks. With its no-nonsense approach, the account posts daily “before and after” photos of Johannesburg, highlighting places that have fallen into neglect. The images are stark: broken pavements, littered streets, and dilapidated buildings—side by side with older photos of vibrant, clean, and well-maintained spaces from yesteryear.

These photos have shocked many residents, some of whom have lived in the city their whole lives but failed to notice the extent of its decline. Others are seeing it as a wake-up call. The account’s bio, reading, “a labour of love for a city that means a lot to many,” hints at its motivation.

Though no one has claimed ownership of the account yet, its message is loud and clear: Johannesburg is not what it once was, but it could be again.

Interestingly, “Jozi vs Jozi” follows only one account—the City of Joburg itself. This symbolic action reinforces the idea that while the city may have its issues, it’s not beyond redemption. And perhaps that’s the key takeaway: we can’t rely on the government alone to fix everything. Instead, there’s a growing recognition that active citizenship is essential to turning things around.

The Broken Window Theory: Why “Jozi vs Jozi” May Be a Catalyst for Change

One concept that ties directly into the work of “Jozi vs Jozi” is the “broken window” theory. This theory suggests that visible signs of disorder—like broken windows, graffiti, or litter—can encourage further neglect and even crime while maintaining order and cleanliness can foster a sense of pride and safety. In Johannesburg’s case, “Jozi vs Jozi” may be doing more than just posting photos; it could be sparking a revolution of active citizenship.

By raising awareness around the city’s decline, the account could inspire more people to take action, whether through organising clean-up initiatives or holding local officials accountable.

Johannesburg’s story isn’t just about what’s gone wrong. It’s also about the incredible grassroots movements that have sprung up in response to these challenges. Across the city, communities have banded together to reclaim their spaces, showing that when citizens take ownership, change is possible.

The Power of Community Initiatives

If you need proof that active citizenship works, look no further than initiatives like the Cape Town Central City Improvement District, Better Bedfordview, The Boksburg Community Project and Praboa in Parkhurst.

These projects, led by dedicated residents, have made significant strides in cleaning up and revitalising their neighbourhoods.

One standout example is the Rejuvenation of The Wilds, a once-neglected park in Houghton that has been transformed into a safe, clean, and vibrant public space thanks to the tireless efforts of community volunteers. This project has restored a beloved green space and has also sparked a renewed sense of pride among residents.

Another inspiring story comes from Better Fourways, where local residents have taken the reins to improve security, cleanliness, and overall quality of life in their area. The initiative has successfully worked alongside local authorities to maintain public spaces, proving that collaboration between government and citizens can yield impressive results.

These projects highlight a powerful message: Johannesburg is a city of resilience. Its people care deeply, and when they come together, they can achieve incredible things.

Getting Our Hands Dirty

Becoming an active citizen in Johannesburg (or any city) starts with small, impactful actions that collectively drive change.

Here are five ways you can make a difference:

• Join local community projects: Get involved with community initiatives in your area to help clean up and maintain public spaces. And if you can’t join, support them! Even with just R10 a month, many R10s make thousands.
• Organise clean-up days: Rally neighbours to tackle litter, paint over graffiti, or plant trees in neglected areas. And do it yourself! If you run or walk in your neighbourhood, take a Woolies bag (we know you have too many) and clean up while you’re out and about.
• Hold local authorities accountable: Attend community meetings or engage with local representatives to ensure service delivery issues are addressed. Get to know your Ward Councillors. Engage with them regularly.
• Report issues: Use platforms like social media or city apps to report broken infrastructure, illegal dumping, or potholes, ensuring they get the needed attention.
• Support small businesses: Strengthening local economies by shopping at and promoting small, neighbourhood businesses fosters a sense of pride and community investment.

A Bright Future for Johannesburg

The rise of “Jozi vs Jozi” and the success of various community-driven projects across the city show that Johannesburg’s future is not set in stone. The challenges are real, but so is the potential for change.

As the cover photo on the “Jozi vs Jozi” account reads: “An ode to a Joburg we once knew and hope to meet again, further down the road.”

While the city may be facing its fair share of difficulties, the growing wave of active citizenship and community engagement suggests that a better, brighter Johannesburg is possible—and it may be just around the corner.

So, while we can’t deny that Jozi is facing some tough times, the people of this city are proving that they won’t sit idly by. They are stepping up, taking action, and inspiring others to do the same. And in that, there is hope.

Sources: Jozi vs Jozi 

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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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Now, it is not every day you get to stumble upon a majestic Southern Elephant Seal in KZN! Local beachgoers were thrilled to encounter this gentle giant, who seemed to be enjoying some R&R under the sun.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (14 October 2024) – A rare and unexpected visitor – a juvenile yet very robust Southern Elephant Seal swam ashore at Rocky Bay Beach on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast last Thursday, much to the delight and adoration of many local beachgoers.

The uShaka Sea World team, led by Senior Aquarist Rob Kyle, Assistant Curator Bilal Limbada, and Veterinarian Dr Francois Lampen, wasted no time rushing to the beach to assist the stranded seal. His strength and location earned him the adorable name “Rocky”.

According to the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR), these seals are not normally found along the KZN coastline, which is about 2,000km from their home.

“Usually, when seals strand on KZN beaches with obvious injuries, they are brought into our rehabilitation facility for treatment, and then released.

“When Rocky was examined on the beach by Dr Lampen, he appeared to be healthy and had possibly hauled out onto the beach to rest after his long swim,” SAAMBR said.

After a thorough assessment, Rocky was given the green light to be released to a quieter beach to continue resting without interruption.

He was also fitted with a flipper tag, which, if seen in the future, will allow the team to monitor his movements and correctly identify him in both the short and long term.

While irresistibly adorable to any animal lover, the SAAMBR emphasised the importance of being mindful that juvenile Elephant seals found on the beach, where they enjoy rest, can be dangerous if approached.

“If you see Rocky on the beach, please keep your distance and allow him to rest. If you are able to see the tag on his hind flipper, please stay at least 5 meters away from him to take a picture and send it to us on any of our social platforms.”

Sources: South African Association for Marine Biological Research

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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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