The Drakenstein Farm Watch Fire Crew visited communities in Paarl to offer a cool-down service and a very fun day for the kids!

Paarl, South Africa (22 January 2024) – Summer is well and truly here and as we are only just hitting its peak, things are heating up! Over the weekend in Paarl, the Drakenstein Farm Watch Fire Crew took their fully loaded trucks into the community to offer the kids a way to cool down.

They hit the streets on the 19th of January 2024, when the temperature had just crossed 43 Degrees Celcius. In that heat, there is nothing one can do but sit and wait for cooler days. Without access to pools, the community was stifling. That was until the engines roared and sirens called out young and old.

“Again our DFW Fire responder crew went out under extreme temperatures, not to put out a fire, but to bring some real refreshment.

Two DFW heavy-duty 4×4 tanker/ pumper trucks unleashed their load through the water canons, providing a lovely shower for all.”

“We see it as building bridges and showing support” according to the DFW general commander. These children will never forget this and it will bring positive vibes.”

The Drakenstein Farm Watch Fire Response Team is a privately funded entity that supports surrounding farms and the community. They operate as a not-for-profit company (NPC) and help combat fires within the Paarl region and the Drakenstein Municipality.

They made a huge difference on the hottest day of the year! Nevermind heartwarming… This one was a heart-cooling experience for all!

Sources: DFW

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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 Fire Dept Kindly Help Kids Cool Off in 43 Degree Weather appeared first on Good Things Guy.

South African para-athlete Darren Thomas has made history as the first adaptive male CrossFit athlete from Africa to win bronze at Wodapalooza in Miami, showcasing resilience and determination in the face of paralysis.

Miami, United States of America (22 January 2024) – In a remarkable display of resilience and determination, South African para-athlete Darren Thomas has etched his name in history by securing the bronze medal at the prestigious Wodapalooza CrossFit event in Miami, Florida.

The victory highlights Darren’s unstoppable spirit and unwavering commitment to overcoming life’s obstacles.

The Wodapalooza event, celebrating its 12th year, has established itself as one of the world’s premier Functional Fitness Festivals. Bringing together thousands of athletes, spectators, and fitness enthusiasts over four days, Wodapalooza promotes inclusivity by allowing both able-bodied and adaptive athletes to compete on the same stage.

Darren made history in the Adaptive Seated division, becoming Africa’s first adaptive male CrossFit athlete to compete internationally in this demanding arena.

In 2007, Darren faced a life-altering incident when an armed housebreaking left him paralysed from the chest down. A once-avid sportsman, Darren’s life took an unexpected turn, but his unwavering spirit and dedication fuelled his journey to this moment of international recognition.

Despite the physical challenges posed by his paralysis, Darren’s passion for sports persisted.

His venture into CrossFit began in 2021 when adaptive athletes were granted the opportunity to compete. This event marked a personal achievement for Darren and a groundbreaking moment for adaptive athletes in Africa.

“I’m truly humbled by the overwhelming support that made this achievement possible. The donations, messages of encouragement, and motivation from people I’ve never met have been incredibly special,” shared Darren.

He expressed gratitude to those who contributed, acknowledging the significance of every donation and the support of friends who covered his family’s costs to join him in Miami.

The journey has been fueled by grit and determination, turning a once-dreamt goal into a remarkable reality. Darren’s sentiments reflect his personal triumph and the collective effort and support that made this achievement possible.

Arriving home on Friday, January 19, at Cape Town International Airport, Darren was welcomed with pride and admiration by his fellow South Africans. His sponsors, including Daytona Group, Lottostar, and Motimoves, have played a crucial role in making this incredible journey possible, providing the support needed for Darren to showcase his prowess on the international stage.

Darren Thomas has added another inspiring chapter to his story of courage, proving that with resilience and determination, one can overcome daunting challenges in every aspect of life.

Congrats Darren. Proudly South African… and PROUD of South Africa!

Sources: GTG

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

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Trevor Noah’s Advert Showing Off South Africa has got some stiff competition for views. While the famous comedian depicted the SA that can experienced with moola, Sammy Hall shows us the SA that can be experienced mahala. Take a look:

Somewhere in South Africa (16 January 2024) — Almost two months ago, Trevor Noah made an advert highlighting all the awesome things South Africa has to offer. Trevor Noah’s advert may have been made with a tourism boost in mind, but it also got many locals eager to explore our own country inspired by the legendary comedian’s top-tier humour.

But, some South Africans were encouraged to take showing our foreign friends around one step further, given that, Trevor Noah’s advert isn’t exactly budget-friendly.

Cue TikTokker Sami Hall, who decided to give us all a hilarious response to the comedian’s take with her Rand-Friendly version of the original (read,’ South Africa for Broke Bitches’).

Where Trevor showcases our brilliant beaches, Sami offers her own recommendations for cooling down in the heat for those who can’t afford beach trips.

For those seeking a budget alternative to the five-star hotels Trevor mentions, Sami’s got her own plan of action (and yes, you’ll need Mozzi repellent).

And when it comes to meeting the ‘lions’ of South Africa, the content creator’s very clever suggestion is sure to give you a giggle.

As Sami’s video reminded us (and the other 100,000 people who watched it), South Africa is still a blast even on budget because of the one thing inflation can never take away from us—our humour.

Watch: Rand-Friendly South Africa!

@samihallsays I mos told you guys I was busy with something fun! So, recently a famous comedian showed you all the wonders South Africa has to offer (if you earn in dollars) but today I wanted to show you South Africa for broke bitches A special thank you to the main sponsor @STEYN IP ‎who is not only responsible for protecting my brands but who is also always excited with me whenever I get a crazy idea. What is your favorite rand friendly thing to do in South Africa? – Thank you to each and every sponsor for making this parody add a possibility! – Thank you @FOKKOL MERCHANDISE for the sexy merch – Thank you @LionsRugbyCo and Mufasa!!! This scene was literally the first scene in my head and I am so glad you guys came on board – Thank you @Victron Energy SA for making me forget about loadshedding for a bit and for joining in this madnes – #dorsland thank you for my sexy vellies and for coming on board – Thanks to our baby, @Mieliepap Plaaswinkel ,also thank you for feeding the crew… No one likes to work hungry Please go and show all the sponsors some love Also, a quick thank you to #goodiesrestaurant for allowing me to film at their put put coarse. Thank you to my co-stars @TheArodSA1 (aka the criminal kak kop) and my dad (the hosepipe man) Okay bye #samihallsays #okaybye #trevornoah #parody #southafrica #comedy ♬ original sound – SamiHallSays

Meanwhile in a big nod to Trevor Noah, the son of Patricia has recently bagged an Emmy for Outstanding Talk Series! Read all about it:

Trevor Noah Wins Emmy for Outstanding Talk Series!

Sources: @SamiHallSays/TikTok 

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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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Kayden Mulder, who attends the Drakensberg Boys Choir School, has been named the head boy for 2024; he is there today thanks to the kindness of others.

Drakensberg, South Africa (08 January 2024) – The Drakensberg Boys Choir have named their Head Boy for 2024 and it’s Kayden Mulder, who was featured on Good Things Guy several years ago when his mom crowdfunded to have Kayden stay in the school.

Kayden Mulder was scouted to audition for Drakensberg Boys in 2018. He successfully auditioned and was enrolled in grade 4 for the 2019 year. During the first two years of his life at the school, he blossomed, but sadly he lost his father, and his mom was unable to cover his school fees on her salary alone by 2022. The crowdfunding, however, was a success, and Kayden has been able to continue attending the school over the past two years.

He has been a great fit at the school and a huge source of inspiration. So much so, he was selected at the head boy for this academic year.

Kayden wrote a message to thank everyone for their support on his journey and to share his vision for the year ahead. He explained that sometimes we can have tough times, but that they make us stronger and better.

“Hi everyone.

My name is Kayden Mulder, Head Boy of the Drakensberg Boys Choir School for 2024. I was honoured to be selected as Head Boy and really look forward to being a leader of the school this year.

2024 will be my sixth year at Drakies. When I joined the school as a new boy at the beginning of 2019, I faced many challenges and difficulties, especially in my first year, as I adapted to my new environment at school and to being away from home. However, I truly believe it is the tough times that make you stronger and a better person. They shape us into who we are today and that is what matters. As a new boy, one of my favourite memories was getting my Concert Status because it is something that you have to work hard for. Once you achieve it, you know that you are going to grow and become better in the choir.

My vision for this year is to inspire and motivate our school to do the best at everything we do and, as our Headmaster always says, to do it with good attitude. I aim to exceed expectations in the goals we set ourselves based on what our school needs, and to help develop the new choristers with a view to making our choir an even better one.

To conclude, I would like to say that it is both a pleasure and a privilege to have been chosen to lead our school and I would like to thank everyone for the love and support they have shown me.” – Kayden Mulder

The school helps nurture musical talent and working together and since so many people reached out to help Kayden, it is clear that working together as a greater community helps nurture the leaders we need. Congratulations on your inspiring new position Kayden. We cannot wait to see what comes next!

Sources: Drakensberg Boys 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.

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A once-in-a-lifetime moment graced Clifton’s waters as a baby Whale Shark wandered southward! In another rare sighting, people teamed up to help the young shark back to deeper waters!

Clifton, South Africa (07 January 2024) —A moment classed as ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ recently had Cape Town’s Clifton 4th Beach as the talk of the town! This after a special guest to Clifton’s colder waters took to unintentionally join beachgoers (roughly 20m from the shore) earlier this week. However, this was no common marine life spotting.

The sight that captured everyone’s attention was none-other-than a juvenile Whale Shark who had swum the path less travelled near Bun Rock. This was an incredible spotting for two reasons. Firstly, the Whale Shark is a rare aquatic friend and is classified as Endangered Globally on the UICN Red List. Secondly, Whale Sharks are not known to gravitate to or seek cold waters, preferring warmer climates.

While the cause for the Whale Shark’s wandering to one of the Clifton’s is not yet fully known (the Clifton Surf Lifesaving Club have speculated injury or separation from its mother), what happened after it was spotted was very special.

After the shark began to beach itself ,Clifton lifeguards along with other helpful hands joined forces to help the young shark back into deeper waters after members of the public were encouraged to leave the marine baby alone.

Videos of the Whale Shark have continuously circulated social media for the past couple of days, and heartwarmingly, many have been of admiration instead of fear.

Given the bad reputation humans have given sharks (even though it is us who invade their homes and not the other way around), it’s important that the narrative shifts from fear to understanding of how marine ecosystems (and those who are a part of it) work.

The Lifesaving Club have also noted that if anyone should  encounter marine life, the best thing to do is to leave it be, and call the pros like:

• The City of Cape Town—021 480 7700 from a cellphone or 107 from a landline
• The NSRI 087 094 9774

Sources: Clifton Surf Lifesaving Club

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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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Imtiaz Sooliman’s heartfelt message from Gift of the Givers for 2024 urges South Africa and the global community to embrace faith, positivity, and unity in navigating challenges and fostering compassion.

Johannesburg, South Africa (01 January 2024) – A heartfelt message from Gift of the Givers offers hope and positivity for South Africa and the global community as we step into 2024.

Imtiaz Sooliman, the founder of Gift of the Givers, shared the inspiring words on New Year’s Eve which have started going viral, resonating deeply with everyone who has read it – a reminder that we are stronger together!

“Challenges are a reality of life, they have been from time immemorial. Attitude not aptitude determines altitude (source unknown). Positive mindset is the requisite attitude to deal with these challenges. Faith and spirituality are the door to that positivity and hope. Faith in a Higher Being, a source of guidance and light, is an individual choice and cannot be imposed for a decision made out of understanding, introspection, reflection, meditation and inner belief is infinitely more sustainable than dogmatic imposition.

Humanity is in a crisis facing a plethora of problems from the very mundane to the most dehumanising, yet none of these are insurmountable or cannot be fixed. There is hope, there’s always hope but that hope can only be driven by God Consciousness accompanied by spirituality, morality, values and ethics, and a commitment to behavioural change or we may say “New Year Resolutions”. “Two things define you: your patience when you have nothing and your attitude when you have everything” (Islamic teaching).

Annihilation of ego, greed, avarice, selfishness and deception, restoration of selflessness, compassion, care, love and mercy where the unconditional upliftment of the immediate and extended family, direct and distant neighbour, colleague and acquaintance, wayfarer and indigent down in the dust, any human and all creation (plant, earth, animal, bee) is the object of our shared humanity then we are on the path to prosperity. We experience a concept called “Barakah”, immeasurable bounties in abundance, tangible and unseen.

On the eve of 2024 do not focus on what may seem endless difficulties, focus on faith (no imposition) and if you believe that circumstances will change for the better, they will. Gift of the Givers wishes the citizens of South Africa and the world a magnificent 2024, a year of faith, positivity and hope. We thank you for your unwavering support in our efforts to serve the disenfranchised worldwide.”

Sooliman’s heartfelt message is a poignant reminder of the enduring power of faith, positivity, and unity. As we navigate the complexities of our world, let us heed his words and strive to cultivate a mindset rooted in compassion, empathy, and hope.

Together, we can build a brighter future for all, guided by the principles of faith, love, and unity.

Sources: Barack Obama | Twitter | X

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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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This captivating photos, now circulating among millions of South Africans, underscores the enduring power of role models, revealing that the influence of true heroes extends far beyond their playing days, shaping the aspirations of future generations.

Johannesburg, South Africa (30 October 2023) – Moments of pure inspiration can emerge from the most unexpected encounters. Recently, a heartwarming photograph has made its way across social media, capturing the essence of two rugby legends, Joost van der Westhuizen and Schalk Burger, as they took a moment to acknowledge two eager fans.

Little did they know, this simple act would plant the seeds of greatness, eventually bearing the fruits we celebrate today in the form of Faf de Klerk and Siya Kolisi.

This captivating photograph, now circulating among millions of South Africans, underscores the enduring power of role models, revealing that the influence of true heroes extends far beyond their playing days, shaping the aspirations of future generations.

Fast forward to the present, and we find ourselves celebrating the remarkable achievements of Siya Kolisi and Faf de Klerk, who were key players in the Springbok team’s recent victory at the Rugby World Cup. The triumph was nothing short of spectacular, as they courageously secured a second consecutive Webb Ellis Cup with a 12-11 victory over their opponents at the Stade de France. This victory ignited the hearts of a nation of 62 million people, a testament to the unifying power of sport.

Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber and captain Siya Kolisi both took the time to thank South Africa for being the driving force behind their remarkable journey. Their path to victory was paved with perseverance, dedication, and the unwavering support of an entire nation.

The story of this heartwarming encounter between Joost van der Westhuizen, Schalk Burger, and two young fans exemplifies the importance of strong role models in sports. In the blink of an eye, these rugby legends taught us that acknowledging the dreams of aspiring athletes can be as significant as scoring tries on the field. The simple gesture of stopping to give attention to those who look up to you can have a profound impact.

Faf de Klerk and Siya Kolisi, inspired by the actions of their predecessors, have become symbols of hope for aspiring rugby players in South Africa and beyond. Their journey to Rugby World Cup glory emphasises the power of mentorship and the enduring influence of positive role models.

This photograph of Joost van der Westhuizen and Schalk Burger serves as a reminder that the seeds of greatness are often planted in these seemingly unremarkable moments of kindness and inspiration.

Sources: Social Media 

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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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Trinity van Beeck is a 16-year-old powerhouse who is wasting no time in being an active citizen. She is a Junior City Councillor for the City of Cape Town with a big heart who hopes to make a difference in the lives of the Cape’s homeless with a special campaign that’s putting together ‘Blessing Bags’ for this often overlooked community:

Cape Town, South Africa (29 October 2023) — 16-year-old Trinity van Beeck from Brackenfell is wasting no time in being an active citizen and hero to her community! From her role as a Junior City Councillor for the City of Cape Town to her heartwarming campaign dubbed ‘Blessing Bags’ (which she hopes will ease homeless lives) this young local is doing her part to transform South Africa’s immediate future.

Through her community service project ‘Horizon’s of Hope’, Trinity aims to address the needs of homeless individuals in Cape Town by starting at an important place—the basics.

“Horizons of Hope aims to provide essential hygiene items, including roll-on, wet wipes, toothbrushes, toothpaste, bars of soap, face cloths and sanitary pads to those who need them most, with a primary goal of improving their well-being and restoring their sense of hope and dignity,” the young active citizen shares.

She adds that the project’s mission is rooted in the compassionate thinking that everyone deserves access to basic necessities, which is why the blessing bags are more than just a provision of the essentials, but an act of thoughtfulness from one human to another.

“We have seen the transformative power of community involvement and how it can positively impact the lives of those less fortunate,” says Trinity.

Each blessing bag costs between R100 to R110.

“To many, these may seem like ordinary items, but they can make a world of difference to those who lack access to them,” Trinity adds.

When young leaders like Trinity show us that sometimes all it takes to lend a hand to those who most need it is to simply act, we are reminded that the horizon is, in fact, bright and brushed with the hope of the next generation.

You can learn more or make a contribution to Horizons of Hope here.

Sources: Trinity van Beeck

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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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SPCA Chief Inspector adopted a terminally ill rescue dog, honouring a heartfelt promise to provide love and care in the dog’s final days.

Western Cape, South Africa (24 October 2023) – Get ready to reach for the tissues because this story is bound to touch your heart. In an act of extraordinary compassion, Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA fulfilled a heartwarming promise he made to a dog named Rocky at the time of his rescue.

Rocky, a severely emaciated and suffering Boxer, was discovered on a property in Eerste Rivier, Cape Town. Despite multiple warnings issued by SPCA’s Inspector Lwazi Ntungele, Rocky’s owner failed to provide him with proper care, leaving our Inspector with no option other than to obtain a court order for his removal.

The court order was executed on the 29th of September 2023, in collaboration with The City of Cape Town’s Law Enforcement Animal Control Unit, with live Facebook coverage that resulted in Rocky winning the hearts of the nation.

You can watch the full rescue video here:

Rocky was in a desperate state of neglect.

“He was literally a walking skeleton,” says Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse. “And it broke my heart to see his condition. I promised him that I would find him a good home, and I was determined to keep that promise, no matter what.”

“Following his rescue, Rocky was admitted to our Animal Hospital in Grassy Park, where our team of veterinarians immediately took over his care. Unfortunately, Rocky deteriorated day by day, despite our best efforts, which included a premium diet and consultations with private veterinarians. When tests confirmed our worst fears, we were all devastated, but nobody more than our Chief Inspector. “Rocky was diagnosed with Cancer, his diagnosis was terminal with no hope of recovery, and the fact that I wouldn’t be able to keep my promise to him kept me awake at night,” says Pieterse.

There’s no doubt that working in animal rescue takes courage, but what our Chief Inspector did next showed how brave he really is. He made the decision to adopt Rocky, so he could make good on the promise he made to him two weeks earlier.

“I knew it would be one of the most difficult things I would ever do, but I had to honour my word and love Rocky as hard as I could for whatever time he had left,” says Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse.

Keeping Rocky pain-free and comfortable was a priority, and with clearance from our veterinary team, our Chief Inspector gave Rocky the full loving-owner experience that included a trip to the beach so he could experience the ocean, a ride in a car with his head out the window, more treats, love, and cuddles than he’d ever had in his entire life. On his last day, he even got a special treat – a trip through the KFC drive-through. The order was simple, “A streetwise two, with no chips, please,” followed by a picnic of deboned chicken on the grass.

When Rocky became too weak to take more than a few steps unaided, and there was nothing more he could offer him other than love, dignity, and peace, our Chief Inspector held him close, like a loving owner would, while we sent Rocky over the rainbow bridge.

“It was a hard hello and an even harder goodbye,” says Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse. “But as it always is with any animal, he gave me so much more than I ever gave him. I’ll never forget him, and I’ll keep fighting cruelty every single day, in honor of his memory.”

Rocky will be cremated, and his ashes will be spread at the beach he enjoyed so much.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to every person who allowed Rocky’s story to touch their hearts and every person who contributed towards the costs of his care, hoping as we did for his complete rehabilitation.

We are equally thankful to every person who cried alongside us. It is a small comfort, but as one Facebook follower commented, “Rocky died with a Dad and with love and care and pain-free.” We couldn’t ask for more for any dog, anywhere.

Watch the heartbreaking video here:

Sources: Cape of Good Hope SPCA 

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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 Watch: SPCA Chief Inspector Adopts Terminally Ill Rescued Dog, Fulfilling Heartfelt Promise appeared first on Good Things Guy.

After being touched by animal hero Tebogo Maredi’s determination to unite missing Haiku with her 94-year-old owner, a GTG reader put on her own hero cape and has now made his dream of becoming an animal inspector that much closer to reality!

South Africa (09 October 2023) — On Friday, Good Things Guy shared the heartwarming, happy ending that animal hero Tebogo Maredi made possible for Haiku the dog and her 94-year-old owner.

In case you missed it, Haiku the elderly Border Collie had been in owner Dr. Selma van Schouwenburg’s car when the vehicle was reportedly stolen. Eventually, the vehicle was found but Haiku was not recovered with it.

What started as a heartbreaking story led passionate animal carer and founder of Soshanguve Animal Shelter and Educentre, Tebogo Maredi, to intervene for the better.

Tebogo spent multiple days dedicated to the search, following up on leads and creating networks with security guards in areas where Haiku was suspected to be hiding, alone and afraid.

Eventually, his hard searching and determination not to give up on Haiku alongside other community members led to Haiku and Dr Selma reuniting and their story turned from heartbreaking to heartwarming.

Moved by his role in the story, a Good Things Guy reader (who wished to remain anonymous) decided to return the favour of selflessness to Tebogo, facilitating another happy ending!

Tebogo, who is currently studying through NPC Be Unique to become an animal inspector dreams of furthering his already impressive impact on animal wellbeing. So, this GTG reader decided to do something beyond special.

“[The story] moved me to the point that I did some digging on his course,” the GTG reader shared.

“I was surprised to find out that Tebogo is two weeks away from finishing the course, and they allowed him to do the course on a good faith basis (ie: without any fees being paid upfront) because they saw the potential in him and how special he is, and had faith that some way and at some point in the future the fees would be raised to cover his costs.”

She decided to be the way that Tebogo’s dream came true, by paying his fees to Be Unique. In full. In a matter of hours after his story was published.

Good Things Guy confirmed the fee payment with an elated Wilmarie Janse van Rensburg, Be Unique’s founder.

And, another important shout-out goes to Wilmarie’s NPC, who not only bet on Tebogo but are also active in giving animal heroes opportunities to make the world a better place, one less animal in distress at a time.

Be Unique’s goal is to equip and educate the youth through educational and employment programmes to improve multiple circumstances for vulnerable groups; including animals (with a big focus on animal cruelty prevention) children, women as well as the environment.

Another day, another example of everyday heroes each playing their own role in making another’s world a better place in real time.

Sources: Good Things Guy Submission

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