Navigating an Autism diagnosis can feel like a lonely journey, but our reigning Miss SA, Qhawekazi Mazaleni, is using her platform to ensure families don’t have to walk it alone.

Johannesburg, South Africa (07 April 2026) – April is Autism Acceptance Month. It is a month dedicated to celebrating neurodiversity, understanding the strengths and honouring the challenges faced by those on the spectrum.

Having received numerous messages from families seeking guidance on how to access support for their children, our reigning Miss South Africa, Qhawekazi Mazaleni, is using her platform to help others navigate Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Far more than just a pageant queen who wears our national crown, Qhawekazi is also a qualified speech therapist, educational activist and a self-published children’s author and a Master’s student in speech pathology, specialising her research in the field of autism.

“What I love most about this month is that the name has been changed from ‘Autism Awareness Month’ to ‘Autism Acceptance Month’, which moves towards genuine acceptance and support for autistic children and adults,” Qhawekazi shares in a recent post.

She recognises that our country still has a very long way to go in terms of ASD information availability, partially because of cultural differences, which result in taboos.

“So many children remain isolated or undiagnosed because their behaviour is viewed as difficult due to misinformation. I want to use this community to make a difference where we can.”

Qhawekazi will now be using her social media platforms to launch a four-part series covering how to get an autism diagnosis, getting support systems like speech or occupational therapy, communication tips and advice on how to navigate the public schooling system for children who are diagnosed with autism.

 

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A post shared by Qhawekazi Mazaleni (@qhawemazaleni)

She’s also open to answering further questions on the topic, inviting her followers to respond with their questions in the comments section or DMing her.

“I will try to include the answers in each of the videos that I make. If I personally can’t answer it, I will make sure to either do research or try to get in contact with a clinician. Please let me know any specific information you might want to know as well. There is no one-size approach to supporting neurodiverse children, but I really hope this series will help a family navigating their journey.”

Beyond the crown lies a heart dedicated to every child’s voice. Her post has received love and earned respect from her online audience and, more touching, brought hope to those navigating a widely misunderstood journey.

As Qhawekazi puts it, one of the best ways to make information available is to start the conversation. We applaud her for using her platform for such a remarkable source of help and a force for good.

Sources: Qhawekazi Mazaleni

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Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

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Tomorrow marks World Autism Awareness Day. Dr Onyinye Nwaneri is highlighting a critical gap: children with autism in rural communities are being diagnosed later, supported less and too often left to navigate an education system not designed for them.

South Africa (01 April 2026) – Children with autism do not struggle because they lack potential; they struggle when the world around them is not ready to understand how they communicate, play, learn or cope with change. In South Africa, that challenge is often felt most sharply in the education system, where support is uneven, specialist services are limited and many teachers are already stretched thin.

In rural communities, the pressure is even greater. Autism is often recognised later than it should be, support systems are harder to access and families often have to carry the burden of uncertainty for far too long. As we mark World Autism Awareness Day on 2 April and Autism Acceptance Month throughout April, this is the right moment to ask what real acceptance or autism looks like, particularly in regions in our country where resources are scarce and the need is great.

This reflection has to start with understanding that acceptance and support of autism cannot be reduced to an Autism Day slogan. It has to become permanently evident in the classroom where a single teacher is trying to guide many different learners, often with very little backup. It also has to be seen in early learning spaces where developmental differences should first become visible – but where staff may not yet feel equipped to respond. And the required support has to also be available in homes and communities where parents often know something is different about their child, but don’t know where to turn for help.

Research done in Limpopo Province in 2023 provided a picture of what the challenges related to autism in our education system look like on the ground. The study found that teachers supporting autistic children had to overcome a plethora of challenges, from substandard infrastructure and limited teaching materials to a shortage of health practitioners, uneven teacher learner ratios, inadequate staff skills and weak management support. This points to a structural problem rather than a lack of care or commitment from teachers themselves. Essentially, we are asking our educators to carry responsibilities that the wider system has not properly recognised and isn’t itself equipped to support.

That burden is often heavier in rural settings, where specialist assessment and therapy services are inaccessible and where autism is often poorly understood. A 2024 study on caregivers of non-verbal autistic children in rural KwaZulu-Natal, published in the South African Journal of Communication Disorders, revealed a need for greater public awareness, caregiver counselling, autism support groups and more specialised education options.

Another 2024 South African study found a delay of roughly three years between the recognition of first symptoms and a formal autism diagnosis. A delay like that can misshape a child’s whole early experience of learning. On the other hand, when adults understand what they are seeing earlier, children are more likely to be supported in ways that reduce frustration and build communication, confidence and connection.

All these research findings support the imperative for early childhood development to be at the frontline of autism inclusion. ECD practitioners are often among the first adults to notice how a child responds to routine, manages sensory input or expresses needs. Unfortunately, early childhood carers and educators often lack knowledge about teaching and accommodating young autistic children in everyday education settings. That gap has to receive urgent attention, because early childhood spaces are where supportive habits should begin, and where fear or misunderstanding can be replaced with practical, compassionate action.

Importantly, autism support doesn’t have to wait for a perfect system or specialist inputs. We can make useful progress simply by giving the adults already involved in autistic children’s lives better tools, clearer guidance and genuine support. This is where practical resources can make a real difference. Sesame Workshop’s new autism materials, released for Autism Acceptance Month, focus on kindness, connection, participation and communication support. They include videos, printables and education designed to help children and adults create more welcoming shared spaces.

In a rural South African classroom or home, where time and support are limited, simple tools like these can help model inclusion in ways that feel achievable. They help to show that communication can happen in different ways, and friendships can blossom when children are taught to accept differences and make room for one another.

In the end, real autism acceptance means more than just saying every child belongs. It means building schools and communities that are better able to recognise difference early and respond with care. And it means supporting the under-resourced teacher who is trying to hold a classroom together while meeting many needs at once. Awareness is definitely a good starting point, but acceptance is what is needed. And that only happens when understanding translates to support, so that all children are given space to be themselves and the genuine chance to learn, connect and thrive.

To access the new resources, visit sesame.org/autism and learn more about supporting every child’s journey toward friendship and inclusion.

Sources: Sesame Workshop

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and 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 and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

The post Autism Acceptance and Support Must Reach SA’s Rural Classrooms appeared first on Good Things Guy.

This story began on Christmas Eve, with bags at a front door and a decision that would reshape two lives in an instant.

Johannesburg, South Africa (08 February 2026) – When a young person turns 18, the world expects them to cope, adapt, and stand on their own. But birthdays don’t magically erase trauma, disability, or unfinished childhoods, and for one vulnerable teenager, that milestone marked the moment support fell away instead of stepping up.

South Africans are generous, but generosity has limits. At any given time, tens of thousands of crowdfunding campaigns are live, many urgent and many heartbreaking. Some inevitably disappear into the noise. Not because they don’t matter but because the need has outpaced the attention and resources available. *Sarah’s crowdfund has been live for 23 days and has received no support at all, despite the seriousness of what it is trying to hold together.

We regularly hear from Good Things Guy readers who are looking for help when things have already gone wrong and there are no obvious doors left to knock on. That is precisely why we created The Helpers, a growing database of charities and organisations that can step in when crowdfunding doesn’t work. Sarah has been reaching out to many of these organisations, but we also felt it was important to tell her story… sometimes being seen is what opens the next door.

Sarah is currently supporting a young woman who has just turned 18. She is autistic, still completing her schooling and has a long history of mental and physical health challenges. She also grew up in a home that was unsafe for many years.

I sat down with Sarah to understand how she found herself here and what she has been carrying.

“On the morning of Christmas Eve, her mother arrived at my home. She unloaded black bags with her daughter’s belongings, told me she was going back home, and said she knew her daughter would be better off with me.”

This moment did not come out of nowhere. After leaving an abusive marriage, the mother and her daughter had come to Sarah first. They stayed with her while she helped them stabilise, supported the mother through that period and assisted with finding accommodation and starting again. So when the young woman was left behind that morning, Sarah understood exactly what it meant.

“There was no plan in place and no support lined up. She is autistic, traumatised, and still a school learner. Turning her away would have meant sending her back into harm or instability.”

At 18, systems often assume independence and capability arrive automatically. Reality is far more complicated, especially for young people who have already endured years of instability.

“The biggest risk is that support disappears at the same time expectations increase,” Sarah explains.

“Turning 18 doesn’t suddenly make someone capable of coping, self-advocating, or navigating adult systems.”

For an autistic young person still completing school, this sudden withdrawal of care can mean losing structure, education, and safety all at once. When advocacy falls away, vulnerability is too often misunderstood, and decisions are made through crisis management rather than long-term care.

“Goodwill can keep someone safe in the short term, but it can’t correct systemic failure,” Sarah says.

“She has been involved with mental health professionals for years, with admissions, discharges, and decisions made about her life without proper respect for her autonomy or developmental stage.”

This is why trauma-informed, professional social work support is critical. Someone needs to look at the full picture, advocate across systems, coordinate care, and ensure accountability, including around abuse that occurred while she was still a minor. Informal care, no matter how committed, cannot provide that level of protection or oversight.

For now, stability looks simple, but it is fragile.

“At this point, stability means not moving her again. She has stabilised significantly in my home and has formed a strong sense of safety here. Removing her now would cause more harm than good.”

She is completing a matric equivalence online and is working with her psychologist. Sarah, an education specialist and neurodiversity advocate, can support her learning and daily structure. But there are larger gaps that cannot be ignored. Professional social work support, safeguarding guidance, and legal assistance are essential if there is any chance of accountability and long-term security. Many NGOs are overwhelmed or find cases like hers too complex to take on, and the cost of private support makes pursuing justice difficult.

The crowdfund exists to bridge that gap. It is not about excess or comfort. It is about funding trauma-informed social work guidance, assistance with dependency and financial support planning, professional advice around legal options, coordination between care providers, and short-term stabilisation costs directly linked to safety.

Sarah is contributing what she can, while also supporting her own child, who is starting university. What she is asking for is help to ensure that this young woman is not silenced or sidelined simply because the situation is complicated.

“Turning 18 doesn’t suddenly make a young person safe,” Sarah says.

“When support falls away at exactly the point someone is least able to cope, the consequences don’t disappear. They show up later in lost education, ongoing trauma, and lives that never fully recover.”

This story is not about outrage or blame. It is about a moment where care still has a chance to change the trajectory of a life. It is about recognising that some young people need adults and systems to stay present a little longer, to act with care rather than convenience, and to ensure that safety does not end at an arbitrary age.

If you are able to donate, your support could help unlock the professional guidance needed to protect a vulnerable young person at a critical turning point. If you can’t, sharing this article still matters. If this story reaches someone who can help, through expertise, resources, or connection, then it has done what it needed to do.

*Name changed to “Sarah” as she does not want the story to be about her. She wants the story to be about the teen she is trying to help.

Sources: Interview with *Sarah 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and 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 and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

The post A Vulnerable Teen, a Closed Door And a Call for Care appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Devoted mom, Naz, didn’t just advocate for her son’s inclusion at school and culinary college; she reshaped the entire educational experience so every learner on the spectrum could finally feel seen and understood.

Johannesburg, South Africa (05 February 2026) – After the passing of her husband, Naz, a devoted mom, suddenly found herself parenting alone. While grieving and surviving, she stood firmly in her conviction that her autistic son deserved access to education, dignity, and opportunity.

A Mother’s Passion for Inclusive Education

Deeply passionate about education, Naz has committed herself to ensuring that learners with autism are given meaningful opportunities to develop foundational life and developmental skills, especially in early childhood.

Through primary school and high school, she supported, encouraged, challenged, and championed Ihsaan, never allowing his diagnosis to define his potential.

Her belief is simple yet powerful: inclusion begins early, and love, structure, and opportunity change lives.

Ihsaan got through each class and grade and matriculated in 2024, carrying with him a deep passion for cooking and creating delicious meals. Through a partnership with Capsicum Culinary School, he was allowed to pursue this passion.

Advocating for Learners on the Spectrum

When facilitators openly acknowledged their limited understanding of autism, a professional development workshop, arranged through a contact of his mom, was facilitated. This created space for meaningful growth, not only for Ihsaan but also for the facilitators, who gained valuable insight into disability sensitivity and inclusive practice.

As a result, Ihsaan was supported with patience, adaptability, and understanding, never allowing his challenges to be viewed as limitations.

During his tertiary journey, many facilitators chose perseverance over convenience and understanding over judgement.

One such individual is his workplace mentor, Chef Mishka, who walked closely alongside Ihsaan, imparting hands-on culinary skills and believing in his abilities even when the journey was challenging. Her openness, acceptance, and appreciation of Ihsaan’s creativity created space not only for mentorship but for genuine growth, which has extended to other learners with special needs.

Ihsaan Graduates and Gives Back

Ihsaan’s journey has culminated in his graduation this year – an achievement that once felt impossible to many, but never to those who chose to walk faithfully alongside him.

Ihsaan will now be joining his mom at her preschool, where he will be preparing nutritious, healthy meals for the children and offering basic food preparation lessons to children from the surrounding community.

His journey has come full circle: learning, growing, and now giving back. It also affirms that learners with autism have the right to education. With the right support, guidance, and mentors who are willing to walk the journey alongside them, young men and women on the spectrum enter the workforce with purpose, skill, and dignity.

Ihsaan and Naz’s story inspires hope, challenges perceptions, and reminds us all of what becomes possible when love, advocacy, and belief lead the way.

Sources: Supplied

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and 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 and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

The post How One Mother’s Advocacy Rewrote Her Autistic Son’s Future appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Two friends have created a proudly South African short animated series designed to make autism awareness accessible, relatable and genuinely helpful to all families and communities. Everybody, meet George!

Johannesburg, South Africa (22 January 2026) – George is an ordinary South African guy. He loves trains, vintage cars, and he has an autistic best friend. After each visit, George goes home with a new crate of information that helps him understand his autistic friend better.

George unpacks every crate, episode by episode. By the end of it, we all learn a little more about autism and how it’s experienced.

George is a good guy. He’s gentle, funny, empathetic – all qualities that make learning fun, easy and memorable.

The short animated series is created by retired advertising designer Derek Logan and his friend, Dr. Emile Gouws.

Derek brings the series to life through animation and voice acting. Dr. Gouws is an international autism self-advocate, postdoctoral research fellow, and representative of neurodiversity at Commonwealth and United Nations level. He draws on research, policy, advocacy, and his own lived experiences to conceptualise the series in a way that makes autism awareness more accessible to everyone.

The two friends came up with the idea over a regular Friday lunch last year.

“My wife, Sammi, and I are both autistic. On Friday afternoons, we often go for lunch at Riverside cafe, where we became part of a wonderful friendship group we fondly call ‘Friday Club’. One of the members of this group is Derek Logan, a retired advertising designer with a lifelong passion for animation. As our friendship grew, Derek began sharing his hobby with me – short animations featuring a character he created called George. One afternoon, Derek sent me a few animations of George enthusiastically talking about trains, and it immediately struck me: George has the perfect voice to explain autism in a way that is simple, human, humorous, and non-threatening,” shares Dr. Gouws.

It’s exactly what the world needs right now. Politics and outdated narratives continue to shape misunderstanding around autism.

“Last year was an especially difficult year for autism awareness globally. Political influences have significantly affected how autism is understood and taught particularly in the Global South and low-to middle-income countries. In many ways, we are nearly 30 years behind where we should be when it comes to acceptance and dignity,” shares Dr. Gouws.

Awareness is vital for dismantling stigma and discrimination, but it’s only effective when it inspires tangible action.

“In South Africa, the need is urgent. We have one of the highest suicide rates among autistic people globally. The average life expectancy of an autistic person in South Africa is approximately 35 years, often due to untreated depression, anxiety, and social exclusion. Unemployment rates are also extremely high, with many autistic individuals sitting at home without purpose or opportunity. Awareness without action is not enough. Inclusion must be lived, practised, and enforced.” shares Dr. Gouws. “That action includes respecting and implementing the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.”

Unpacking George fills that gap by exploring autism in everyday life, from a relatable South African perspective.

With George, we learn about what autism is and the common misconceptions around it. We gain a better understanding of sensory sensitivities, communication differences, routine and predictability, and emotional regulation. And we learn how to make reasonable accommodations that lead to a more inclusive space.

It all starts with understanding, and there aren’t many local narratives shaping that in a manner that’s easily accessible to everyone.

“I often say that the autism spectrum stays the same across the world, but what differs are lived experiences shaped by culture, tradition, religion, resources, and social systems. George reflects that reality he is proudly African, finding his place in the world, and sharing a story that has long been missing,” says Dr. Gouws.

“What excites me further is that George represents a Global South voice. He comes from a so-called ‘third world’ country and carries a South African accent, perspective, and story into the world. Most autism-related animations reflect Global North narratives, but Unpacking George has the ability to educate the Global North as well,” he adds.

It’s a feel-good project for so many reasons. One that has potential to make a real impact.

Derek – the voice behind George – would never have thought that his lovable character would ever take on such an important and meaningful task.

“The mere fact that a character I created has been given such a responsible task as Autism Awareness, is hugely gratifying. George has never had to carry any weight on his shoulders…now he has purpose! What a great way to get creative every day and have fun doing it!” he says. “Autism Awareness is the objective. Educating people is often factual and academic, so if this series helps in any way to draw attention to the cause and take on the information to help Neurodiverse people, I’ll be delighted. Getting people to pay attention is never easy. So I’m holding thumbs!”

Every episode of Unpacking George will be released by Special Knead Cafe on social media, run by Dr. Gouws and his wife, Sammi. Give them a follow! 

Sources: GTG Interview.

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and 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 and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

The post This South African Animated Series About Autism Will Put a Smile on Your Face! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

There are moments when a toy becomes more than a toy. When it quietly says, “I see you.” And this week, Barbie did exactly that.

South Africa (12 January 2026) – Barbie has been on a mission to have a more inclusive representation in doll form over the past few years. From Barbie in a wheelchair to Barbie with a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) to honour children with Type-1 Diabetes. Let’s not forget Barbie, who represents children with Down syndrome and now, Barbie honours the Neurodiverse community.

Mattel has unveiled its first-ever autistic Barbie doll, created with direct guidance from the autistic community, and it feels like one of those rare, meaningful steps forward that deserves a proper pause and a little applause. Because for many children, this isn’t about plastic or pink accessories. It’s about finally recognising themselves in a world that hasn’t always made space for them.

Developed over more than 18 months in partnership with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), a non-profit organisation run by and for autistic people, the new doll joins the Barbie Fashionistas range. This is the same collection that has steadily expanded what representation looks like on toy shelves.

But what makes this release feel especially thoughtful is the care behind it. This wasn’t a box-ticking exercise. The design team worked closely with ASAN to reflect real, lived experiences that many autistic people may relate to, in ways that are gentle, respectful and affirming.

The autistic Barbie features a new face sculpt, with an eye gaze that is slightly averted, acknowledging that some autistic people avoid direct eye contact. Her elbows and wrists are articulated, allowing for stimming, hand flapping and expressive gestures that can help process sensory input or communicate excitement. It’s a small detail, but one that carries big meaning.

Then there are the accessories, each chosen with intention. A pink finger-clip fidget spinner that actually spins. Noise-cancelling headphones resting casually on her head. A tablet displaying symbol-based Augmentative and Alternative Communication apps to support everyday communication. None of it feels exaggerated or performative. It simply feels normal. And that, perhaps, is the point.

Her outfit follows the same thoughtful approach. A loose-fitting purple pinstripe A-line dress with short sleeves and a flowy skirt designed to reduce fabric-to-skin contact. Flat purple shoes that prioritise comfort and stability. Sensory-friendly fashion, without sacrificing style.

“Barbie has always strived to reflect the world kids see and the possibilities they imagine, and we’re proud to introduce our first autistic Barbie as part of that ongoing work,” said Jamie Cygielman, Global Head of Dolls at Mattel. “The doll, designed with guidance from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, helps to expand what inclusion looks like in the toy aisle and beyond because every child deserves to see themselves in Barbie.”

For ASAN, the collaboration was deeply personal.

“As proud members of the autistic community, our ASAN team was thrilled to help create the first-ever autistic Barbie doll,” said Executive Director Colin Killick. “It is so important for young autistic people to see authentic, joyful representations of themselves, and that’s exactly what this doll is.”

The launch is also being celebrated alongside autistic community advocates, including Nandi Madida and her six-year-old daughter, Nefertiti. Nandi’s words capture why this moment lands so emotionally for so many families.

“Barbie has always represented comfort and imagination for me, and becoming a mother to an autistic child has transformed what representation truly means,” she said. “This autistic Barbie is deeply emotional because it reflects children who are so often left out.”

She added that for autistic children, seeing themselves in a doll like this affirms that they are seen, valued and understood exactly as they are. And for non-autistic children, it becomes a powerful early lesson in empathy, curiosity and respect. All through play.

That idea is backed by research too. Since 2020, Barbie has worked with researchers at Cardiff University to study the impact of doll play, finding that it activates areas of the brain linked to empathy and social processing. More recent findings suggest doll play may help develop social skills for all children, including those with neurodivergent traits commonly associated with autism.

Which makes this feel less like a single product launch, and more like a quiet shift in how childhood worlds are being built.

The autistic Barbie is now available at leading retailers nationwide. But its real value lies in what it represents. A reminder that inclusion doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful. Sometimes, it just needs to be honest.

And maybe, just maybe, it starts with a doll that finally looks back and says, “You belong.”

Sources: Barbie

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and 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 and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

The post Barbie Just Took a Beautiful Step Toward Neurodiversity and Inclusion appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A transatlantic sailing journey departing from Cape Town is carrying more than a crew… it’s carrying awareness, compassion and a commitment to making a difference.

Johannesburg, South Africa (08 January 2026) – Good news can arrive through intention and action. Through people who look at a personal dream and ask how it might serve others too. As four South Africans prepare to sail across the Atlantic, their journey carries far more than wind and water.

When I spoke to Jake Brinkley, it was clear that this voyage began long before the sails were raised. Jake is a critical care paramedic. He’s also a sailor. And, as he shared openly with me, he was diagnosed with autism as an adult, an experience that reshaped how he understands himself, his work and the people he encounters every day.

“I’ve always felt like certain things that came easily to others were not as natural for me, and I’ve always felt different,” Jake explained. “Two years ago I went for an autism evaluation. I didn’t think anything would come of it… and then I was diagnosed. It came as quite a shock, because I didn’t think I fit the picture in my head of what autism typically looked like.”

That diagnosis led to a period of reflection and learning. Jake spoke candidly about the complexity of it all, the questions, the guilt and the growing awareness.

“I spent a great deal of time learning about autism and about how the spectrum actually works. I felt guilty because there are those with autism who have far greater struggles than I do. I worried that my diagnosis detracted from their hardship.”

At the same time, his work as a paramedic brought him face-to-face with autistic children and families navigating overwhelming realities.

“I could see parents who were exhausted and feeling out of their depth, and I saw kids who couldn’t communicate their needs to their parents,” he said. “Even though I don’t see many of these patients, the few I have seen really left an impact.”

Running alongside this deeply personal journey is another story, one rooted in family and a lifelong dream.

“Not to speak for the man, but it’s always been my dad’s dream to sail around the world,” Jake told me. “He’s the best sailor I know (zero bias obviously) and he’s finally making it happen, with a LOT of help from his wife.”

After years of preparation and his father’s recent retirement, that dream is now underway.

In early January, the crew of four (Jake, his dad, Peter Brinkley, his stepmom, Sheena Brinkley, and *Danica) will set sail from Cape Town, heading to St Helena Island, then on toward Brazil and the Caribbean. The crossing is expected to take between 35 and 45 days, weather permitting.

“When I heard their first leg was the Atlantic crossing, I jumped at the chance to join them,” Jake said. “It’s an incredible privilege to be able to do something like this. And that made me stop and think, how could I use this for something bigger than myself?”

That question became the heart of a Voyage with Purpose.

Jake decided to use the journey to raise awareness and funds for Autism South Africa through a crowdfunding campaign. He’ll be sharing updates from the ocean on both Facebook and Instagram, documenting the experience and inviting people to follow along.

“I realised it would be an amazing opportunity to raise awareness about autism and raise funds for an organisation like Autism South Africa,” he said. “They do a great job supporting people like me, but especially those who’ve been dealt a more difficult hand.”

There’s another layer to this journey that makes it even more meaningful. For the past five years, Jake has lived and worked in the Middle East, meaning precious family time has been limited.

“I’ve missed out on five years of my family’s lives,” he told me. “That’s taught me how important it is to treasure the time you do get. I’m really looking forward to spending this time with my dad, and to being part of realising his dream.”

And beyond the sailing, beyond the fundraising, there’s hope.

“For autistic people and their families watching, I hope this shows them that people care,” Jake said. “And I hope it inspires others to look at opportunities in their own lives and ask how they might make a difference.”

When I spoke to Juliet Carter, National Director of Autism South Africa, that sense of care and connection came through immediately.

“Admiration,” she said, when I asked what this voyage stirred in her personally.

“It takes tremendous courage to brave the vast ocean, and to do so in support of raising autism awareness really humbled me. There are such amazing people out there. The average South African (for me) has a heart that is so huge. We truly care about one another.”

For families living with autism, visible support like this carries profound meaning.

“We feel seen and heard,” Juliet explained. “For decades autism was seldom spoken about, and very little support was available. When people support autism in a visible, courageous, and human way, it makes us feel validated. It tells us that we matter.”

The impact goes beyond symbolism. It enables real work on the ground.

“Our work is deeply personal,” she said. “Most of our team are parents, siblings, or close family members of autistic people. We are here because this is our vocation and our calling. Support like this allows us to extend our reach, strengthen our programmes, and respond to the growing need for practical support across our communities.”

As the boat prepares to leave Cape Town, the Atlantic ahead will demand patience, resilience and trust. There will be long days, changing conditions and moments of quiet reflection out at sea.

But this voyage is already doing what it set out to do. It’s turning a personal dream into collective good. It’s reminding families affected by autism that they are seen. And it’s showing how intention, action, and heart can travel together… carried by family, fuelled by purpose and guided by the belief that even the biggest journeys can help others along the way.

*Danica would prefer her surname remain anonymous

Source: Interview with Jake Brinkley and Juliet Carter 

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Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

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Thabani Mndebela isn’t just a pro MMA fighter and a doctor. He’s also a loving dad who ran 30km dragging a tyre and carrying weights to show the world what it means to raise a neurodiverse child.

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal (12 September 2025) – The Pathways Centre marked its 30th anniversary this year with a 30km race to celebrate the work it does for children with severe cognitive and physical disabilities.

Families, friends and supporters turned out in force. But one parent, in particular, made sure every step carried a message.

Thabani Mndebela, professional MMA fighter, practising doctor, and proud dad, ran the entire 30km course pulling a tyre and gripping 3kg dumbbells. His reason? His son, who attends Pathways, is on the autism spectrum.

Thabani wanted to give the crowd a glimpse of the extra weight parents raising neurodiverse children carry, with love and a smile, every single day.

“My thing is, parents with neurodiverse kids have an extra load on their shoulders and backs however we still carry that load through trials and tribulations,” he explained.

The idea came to him just a day before the race, while cleaning his office.

“When I told my wife she thought I was mad and that’s when I said I am really doing this!”

It wasn’t about speed or finishing in style. In fact, he was the last to cross the line, and that was the point.

“I was the last one to finish because of the extra load weighing me down, those who ran the race without extra weight finished faster than me,” he said.

For Thabani, the tyre and weights were a powerful symbol of the journey parents walk with their neurodiverse children. Slower, harder, but no less determined

“A neurotypical child achieves its milestones earlier than a neurodiverse child, no matter the time it takes us to reach the goal… it’s our responsibility to keep pushing and to never give up,” he said.

His wife, Nelly, who had only completed her first-ever 10km two weeks prior, joined him on the course. Together, they turned the day into a celebration of their son, and a show of solidarity with every parent navigating life with autism and other forms of neurodivergence.

Thabani often wears mismatched socks and shoes to honour the neurodiverse community. Just an extra quirk we love about this fighter, doctor, and dad proving that true strength lies in perseverance, patience and love.

“Autism Strong. Thank you Pathways for what you do for our little champions.”

 

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A post shared by pathways (@pathways.school)

Sources: 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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This isn’t just a press release. It’s a deeply human moment… and a reminder of the power of compassion in unexpected places.

Johannesburg, South Africa (05 August 2025) – Most mothers wish for their children to be happy. Some wish for safety, or for opportunities, or for good health. But Rahab Phoshoko, a tables inspector in Johannesburg, had one very specific wish: to hear her little boy say “Mama” for the first time.

It’s something so many parents take for granted. But for Rahab, it became her most urgent dream.

Her son Zani was born in 2021, bright-eyed and full of promise. But when milestones came and went without speech, her instincts told her something was wrong. And she was right. Zani was eventually diagnosed with hearing loss and underwent surgery. Then came another diagnosis. Autism.

“Nothing could have prepared us for what we heard next, that Zani had lost his hearing,” she shared.

“Watching my son prepare for surgery, so small yet so strong, was one of the hardest moments of my life. And yet, it was also the beginning of our journey toward understanding – not just his needs, but his incredible resilience.”

But resilience needs support. And therapy, the kind Zani urgently needs, comes at a cost that many families simply cannot meet. Speech therapy, occupational therapy, neurodevelopmental support… these are often out of reach, especially in a country where access to specialised care can feel impossibly unequal.

So Rahab did something brave. When her company opened up its annual call for employee wishes – a simple initiative asking, “how can we help?” – she shared her heart. She didn’t ask for anything for herself. She asked for her son. At just three years old, Zani had never said “Mama.” Never said “Dada.” But Rahab believed he still could, if given the chance.

And then something beautiful happened.

Her company’s leadership chose her wish: a call for therapy support, as this year’s top priority. And just like that, Zani’s journey shifted. The therapy he needs is being funded. The care he deserves is now within reach.

But this isn’t just a story about one little child and his mom. This is a story about how things should be. It’s a reminder that behind every name tag, every payslip, and every shift, there’s a human being. A parent. A caregiver. A person carrying the weight of life while showing up and giving their best. And when companies meet that humanity with compassion instead of cold policies… that’s where real change begins.

“I want to thank God for answering my prayers,” Rahab said. “Thank you for granting my wish, for stepping in during a time of need and providing us with the support that will give Zani the chance to improve, grow, and thrive. You didn’t just give a helping hand — you gave a little boy hope, and a mother peace.”

Her words are a challenge to the rest of us.

What if more companies listened like this? What if more workplaces saw their people, really saw them, and recognised that sometimes, the biggest impact they can make isn’t a big campaign or a flashy launch… it’s one act of care that changes everything for one family.

Zani’s journey is just beginning. But it’s already inspired something bigger: a conversation about what’s possible when we lead with empathy. When corporate South Africa remembers the human side of business. And if this story reminds just one more employer to pause, look up, and ask, “How can we help?”… then that, too, would be a wish granted.

Sun International’s annual Sun Wish campaign has been quietly transforming lives since 2019, offering employees the chance to ask for help with deeply personal challenges relating to education, health, food security and more. While many companies focus their resources outward, Sun Wish turns that compassion inward, towards the people who keep the business running. In a country where too many workers are seen as expendable, this programme is a powerful reminder that looking after your team is not just good practice… it’s good humanity.

Sources: Sun International 

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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 Corporate Kindness in Action: One Wish, a Lifetime of Impact! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Beyond being a binge-worthy show, ‘Love on the Spectrum’ is packed with lessons on dating and relationships that are well worth taking notes from!

Global (15 April 2025) — Under the advice of a friend, I recently sat down to learn what the hype surrounding Netflix’s ‘Love on the Spectrum’ was all about.

At first, I was equal parts curious and skeptical as to how young adults ‘looking for love’ would be portrayed in the show. As any fan of reality TV knows well, things are edited, re-edited, and spliced to seem one way or another. I worried that certain tropes of Autism would be played up for the sake of ‘entertainment’ (which didn’t sit well with me) or that the show would shy away from certain topics, undercutting the Autism awareness aspect of it all.

Given that I don’t know any of the show’s participants personally, it’s impossible to say just how much was edited. However, in the camp of awareness, I will say that I was pleasantly surprised at how well the show did in delivering important messages; simply by letting the public into the lives of people that don’t often have their stories told; let alone taking us along their pursuits of connection (which in most cases was so pure).

What stuck out most to me, especially in the third season, was the refreshing dose of authenticity the show had thanks to its participants. Scripts are one thing, but those genuine bursts of excitement, curiosity and love are hard to force, which made seeing these emotions in their rawness that much more refreshing.

Following my binge-watch (I won’t reveal any spoilers), I got to thinking about how there’s so much I learned from Love on the Spectrum, and how much we all can—especially in our love lives. Where so often dating advice is premised on ‘not being too much of this or that’, ‘Love on the Spectrum’ flips many of these conventional notions entirely, and we might all just be better off to take notes from our friends on the Spectrum.

Dating Tips We Can All Take From ‘Love on the Spectrum’

Thoughtful gift giving is in

One of the sweetest parts about the show was how thoughtful the participants were in the gifts they gave each other on dates.

Whether it was Tyler giving Madison a Cinderella bracelet charm (she had told him that princesses were her special interest), or Abby gifting David a candy charcuterie board filled with all his favourite sweets, these touches of thoughtfulness were precious.

So, if you’re going on another date with the same person (even if things are still fairly new), consider adding a small, but thoughtful gift to the equation. Something as simple as a keychain with their favourite animal on it can go a long way; it shows not only that you put in more effort than simply showing up, but also that you paid attention to things they told you.

Unapologetically authentic, always

There’s a loud irony in the typical world of dating. You’re trying to connect with someone, but you’re too afraid to be yourself. Following that skewed logic, people forge faux connections, and it’s oftentimes all uphill from there (just watch 27 Dresses again, feel frustrated at Tess, and you’ll get the picture).

Authenticity should always be front and centre when you’re connecting with someone new, and something the participants handled like pros, no matter how nervous they were. In fact, explaining nerves was a part of their authenticity. Tanner made a point of mentioning to his dates that he ‘didn’t have anything to say’ at certain points on their adventures, not to be rude, but to simply explain his moments of silence.

While we don’t all need to share every thought on a date, there is something to be said about allowing people the experience of our own self-honesty. So, don’t go eating food you don’t like to impress someone, or pretending to love a type of music you can’t stand (you’ll thank yourself down the line when you’re spared listening to heavy metal for the rest of your relationship because you claimed to be a huge fan on that first date).

Asking for permission is the vibe

There was something so commendable about the way participants handled asking permission when it came to any kind of physical touch. From hand-holding to first kisses, each made sure the other was okay and comfortable with the idea of new forms of closeness, and it’s certainly something many neurotypicals could learn from.

Leading people on isn’t cute

I loved how participants made their intentions known. So many times in the show ‘honesty is the best policy’ was said, and most importantly, communicated.

Rejection stings for anyone. But it’s a lot easier to get over a first date brand of connection than a whole confusing situationship or relationship built on nothing more than one party hoping to not hurt the other’s feelings.

Even when it’s tough (as it was for James in letting one of his dates know there wouldn’t be a second date), being up-front speaks volumes about character.

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 Dating Tips We Can All Take From ‘Love on the Spectrum’  appeared first on Good Things Guy.