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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In just under a year, Charity Crowdfund NPC has turned thousands of loaves and lunches into a lifetime of hope, nourishing over 28,000 lives through the simple power of community action!

Johannesburg, South Africa (07 April 2026) – Over 1,500 lunches delivered, over 4,000 cooked and over 14,500 loaves of bread distributed. These numbers reflect only a glimpse of the incredible impact Charity Crowdfund NPC has made in less than a year.

Launched in September 2025, Charity Crowdfund has touched the lives of more than 28,000 people by providing weekly distributions of fresh bread, nourishing meals, clean water, and wholesome school lunches in Johannesburg.

The organisation is inclusive and open to all. It operates sincerely in the spirit of giving, where every rand donated is accounted for, ensuring that generosity touches those who need it most.

Charity Crowdfund is a registered South African non-profit organisation governed by a board of professionals and is dedicated to practical, consistent community support through consistent giving.

 

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A post shared by Charity Crowdfund (@charity.crowdfund)

Active Projects

Weekly Bread Distribution  

Every week, Charity Crowdfund distributes fresh bread to families in need, with a target of 50,000 loaves before the end of 2026. Distributions are tracked publicly, week by week, on the charity’s website.

Waterwell Project

At R16,500 per well, the charity funds water wells in communities without access to clean water. a lasting, generational impact. Seven wells have been completed, with more underway.

Winter Blanket Project

With South Africa’s winter months approaching, Charity Crowdfund is collecting donations to distribute warm blankets to those in need. Forty-five blankets have already been distributed in the first week of the campaign.

Technology Driven

Charity Crowdfund is not just a charity. It is a technology-first organisation that uses modern infrastructure to make giving as easy and transparent as possible.

Effortless Donations

Donating takes seconds. The platform supports Apple Pay, Google Pay, instant EFT, and card payments: all secured and encrypted. Donors can also schedule recurring weekly or monthly contributions directly from the website, with no friction and no paperwork.

This commitment to a seamless donation experience removes barriers to giving and enables more people from any background to participate consistently in community upliftment.

Technology-Powered Transparency

Every donation is tracked, and every distribution is recorded publicly. The organisation publishes a detailed, week-by-week distribution history on its website, showing exactly what was given, to whom, and when.

Donors can see the direct impact of their contributions in real time. This level of accountability, made possible by purpose-built technology, sets Charity Crowdfund apart.

There is no gap between what is collected and what is distributed. The data is always public, always current, and always verifiable.

In a country where charitable giving is often ad hoc and accountability is limited, Charity Crowdfund represents a different model rooted in professional governance, transparent weekly reporting, and a commitment to sustained, measurable impact, which directly brings hope and comfort to communities every week.

To get in touch or for more information, email info@charity-crowdfund.co.za or visit the Charity Crowdfund website.

Sources: Charity Crowdfund NPC

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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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A quick-thinking surfer launched her board and paddled straight into the swell to reach a young man whose Sunday swim turned into a life-threatening situation at Clifton 2nd Beach over the weekend.

Cape Town, South Africa (07 April 2026) – When a young man was spotted struggling and in distress at Clifton 2nd Beach on Sunday morning, a female surfer hurried to help.

According to eyewitnesses, the surfer had launched her surfboard to reach the man’s aid. It appears he had gone for a swim when he encountered difficulties in the water. The NSRI Bakoven duty crew and CoCT (City of Cape Town) water rescue network were activated after an eyewitness reported to the NSRI Emergency Operations Centre.

Upon arrival, the NSRI crew discovered the surfer bringing the man to shore on her surfboard, with local community members assisting him as she reached the beach.

The man, aged 23 and from Angola, was medically stabilised by a doctor who, by a stroke of good luck, happened to be at the beach. He provided medical assistance before being shortly joined by CSO paramedics. Paramedics, law enforcement officers, and Clifton Surf Lifesaving lifeguards helped carry him up the Clifton stairs, where he was transported to the hospital by EMS ambulance in a stable condition.

The man is expected to make a full recovery. The anonymous Good Samaritan surfer is praised for rescuing him from the water, saving his life. A huge shoutout also goes out to the eyewitness who raised the alarm, the doctor who provided assistance, and the quick response by everyone involved.

Sources: NSRI

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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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Mom and autism advocate, Ntandose Nkabinde, is spearheading a growing, community-driven movement that is bringing autism awareness out of the margins and into everyday conversations across underserved communities.

South Africa (07 April 2026) – Navigating autism is a reality that many South African families face, often in silence. It’s a reality that Ntandose Nkabinde knows personally through raising her son and one that has inspired her to reshape how South Africa understands, supports and includes children on the autism spectrum.

iKweKwezi Autism Initiative (iKKAI), named after her son, is an advocacy platform that represents both a deeply personal journey and a broader national mission: to ensure that every autistic child is met with dignity, understanding and opportunity.

“Autism awareness cannot live only in April or in policy documents,” says Nkabinde.

“It must exist in our homes, schools, communities and conversations every single day. This is about changing how society shows up for our children.”

Driving Real Change Where It Matters Most

Through iKweKwezi Autism Initiative, Nkabinde is leading impactful, community-focused programmes that include:

• Autism awareness campaigns in underserved communities
• Monthly educational workshops for parents and caregivers
• Parent empowerment and support programmes
• School and stakeholder engagement initiatives
• Inclusive community events, including Autism Walks

These initiatives are not just awareness-driven; they are designed to create practical, lasting support systems while breaking stigma at the grassroots level.

She is a new face of Autism Advocacy in Africa. With a background in media, brand positioning and community engagement, Nkabinde brings a unique and powerful approach to advocacy, blending storytelling, education and strategic partnerships to drive measurable impact.

Her work is positioning iKweKwezi Autism Initiative as both a trusted support network for families and a credible and growing voice in national autism advocacy

As conversations around inclusion gain urgency, Nkabinde is fast becoming a go-to voice for media, brands and institutions seeking meaningful engagement on autism awareness.

World Autism Awareness Day: A National Call to Action

With the country having observed World Autism Awareness Day on 2 April, Nkabinde is calling for a shift from passive awareness to active inclusion by bringing autism awareness out of the margins and into everyday conversations across underserved communities.

 

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A post shared by NtandoseNkabinde (@iamntandose)

Sources: Supplied

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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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From heartfelt deliveries for “little warriors” in hospitals to sweet surprises for school kids, our local charities proved this Easter that the smallest gestures often hold the most love!

South Africa (07 April 2026) – Easter is a season of hope and renewal, and this year was truly special – where various charities and kind hearts brought this goodness and joy to those who need it most through the power of caring communities, far and wide!

The Warren and Arlene Lucas Foundation

This Easter, the Warren and Arlene Lucas Foundation visited Elsies River to deliver Easter eggs, sweets, and snacks to two local ECD centres. While it may seem like a simple gesture to some, it brought pure joy to the little ones.

“Those moments of joy, excitement, and connection… they matter. Because community is built like that. Not in grand gestures, but in showing up, in giving what you can, and in doing it together,” the team shared.

Children’s Hospital Trust

At the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, little patients, too, were treated to the sweetest Easter gifts, generously donated and delivered by Mariaan Mackenzie and her wonderful friends.

The little warriors were delighted upon receiving their individual hampers, which brought so much joy into their hospital stay.

Heart in Hands Food Bank

The Hearts in Hands Food Bank team, during their many Easter egg drop-offs, popped in to share a little Easter community love with the Wentworth Victims Unit. A place where compassion quietly meets courage, every single day.

“This incredible team has spent years standing in the gap for those facing some of life’s most difficult moments – offering comfort, counselling, and a safe space to be heard. Many of these selfless individuals volunteer their time and hearts, ensuring that no one in need is ever turned away,” the Food Bank team said.

Hearts in Hands was happy to contribute in a small way to the meaningful work the Unit does by giving a few hundred marshmallow eggs that they will put directly into the hands of children in the community.

Angels’ Care Centre

Through the amazing generosity of the public, the Angels’ Care Centre was able to share the magic of Easter across all of its programmes.

“Our Preschoolers had the best time hunting for treats. Our After-School learners enjoyed a sweet reward after their hard work. Our Saturday Feeding Programme children (all 350 of them) received an extra dose of joy.”

For this charity, seeing the smiles on the children’s faces was everything and reminded them of the power of a caring community.

These are just a few of the many special do-gooders who chose to celebrate this Easter with others in mind. Thank you to all these organisations, communities, and supporters for playing your part in putting a little more love into the world – exactly where it’s needed most!

Sources: Linked Above

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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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When the petrol price hits hard, you’ve gotta get creative, and Themba Robin has just taken “fuel-efficient travel” to a hilariously new level!

Johannesburg, South Africa (06 April 2026) – Tough times are inevitable, but if there’s one thing about South Africans, it’s their ability to find humour in almost any situation, inviting everyone to join in the laughter.

Many are aware that there’s been a lot happening abroad in the political sphere, and we empathise with those severely affected by the global conflicts unfolding in our time.

Recently, South Africa has felt the impact of heightened risks in global energy markets, leading to record-high fuel prices and a shared sense of unease among us all.

But as mentioned, we manage to cope with the doom and gloom through humour. Giving us the giggles recently was Comedic Content Creator, Themba Robin, who recently posted a hilarious skit showing his creative new approach to e-hailing without the stress of needing fuel.

In the amusing video, he’s seen pushing a wheelbarrow with Uber branding and stopping to pick up his next client for their ride, who was more than happy to hop in and be pushed to their destination.

“Petrol prices got us doing what we need to do to get by,” Themba shared playfully in the post’s caption.

It was witty, relevant and had the people laughing out loud!

“Do we pay in steps?” Marilet Swanepoel hilariously asked.

“The way he’s checking the number plate before he jumps in,” observed Siobhan Noelle Roy.

“Going to build it tomorrow to pick up a wheelbarrow,” Garret Van Der Walt joked.

The post has hit over one million views on Facebook, and there’s no wonder why! Thank you for the clever solution (hopefully one we won’t have to resort to) and, most importantly, for bringing us plenty of laughs when we needed them most, Themba.

Sources: Themba Robin

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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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The words were few, but the tears and hugs said it all. One Motherwell police captain received a send-off fitting for a hero who gave 40 years to his community and office.

Motherwell, South Africa (06 April 2026) – Some of our most hardworking and dedicated public servants don’t get nearly enough credit for the hours and tireless efforts they put in on the job to serve communities. We rely on them in various ways, sometimes to ensure our very safety and protection.

After serving with loyalty and heart in the national police force for 40 years, one Motherwell officer received a deeply moving tribute this week. In a touching video shared by his sister, Marlene Meintjes, the veteran member is seen walking out of the station for the final time, shaking hands with his colleagues.

Fighting back tears, he proceeds to walk towards each of the station’s staff members standing in a line, everyone of them holding a yellow flower to present to him in honour of the remarkable work he’s done throughout the years and the impact he’s had on them.

There may not have been many words during that emotional farewell walk, but the long hugs and tears spoke volumes. They honoured a man who didn’t just wear a uniform or merely fulfil a job, but a man who truly served and touched lives.

“​Watching him walk out of Motherwell SAPS for the last time, surrounded by the respect of his colleagues, brings so many emotions. Thank you for your bravery, your sacrifice, and for always being a hero – not just to the community, but to our family,” shared Marlene, capturing the dedication of her brother.

A speech delivered by one of the senior members described the outgoing Captain as someone who played an irreplaceable role in training staff and uplifting the office. He was described as a man who had possessed humility, patience, knowledge and skill that helped guide and pave the way for all members he’d taken under his wing. He was thanked for the change he made, his willingness to assist and for leading by example.

The video has garnered over 926K views on Facebook, with many viewers touched by the emotional reaction of the Captain’s colleagues.

“What a beautiful speech, it brought tears to my eyes. It looks like they were a good team, more like a family. Everyone is heartbroken because the captain is leaving his ship, but they know that they can rely on him if they need him. I’m so happy that I could see this. Congratulations, Captain, on 40 years,” one person commented.

And we can’t help but share similar sentiments. The Captain leaves behind a strong team that he’s helped mould, ready to serve and protect Motherwell in Gqeberha. We celebrate and salute his invaluable impact, and wish this legend a restful, well-deserved retirement.

Sources: Marlene Meintjes

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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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Reconnecting, reminiscing, and reaching out. The St Anne’s Class of 2006 is celebrating their milestone reunion by opening doors for the next generation of girls through the Mandisa Fund.

Hilton, South Africa (06 April 2026) – School reunions stir a sense of curious excitement, offering the chance to reconnect with old friends and peers from your early years. It is a time for reflecting on past adventures and the dreams planted back then, while sharing the accomplishments and experiences of the present.

As the Class of 2006 prepares to celebrate its 20-year reunion later this year, the alumnae of St Anne’s Diocesan College are marking the milestone with more than just memories.

Raising a Million for Future St Annes Girls

Together, they have decided to pave the way for the next generation by setting an ambitious goal: to raise R1 million for the school’s recently launched Mandisa Fund, a bursary created to support daughters of Facilities Staff and exceptional girls from the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands community who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend the school.

The Fund is named in honour of Mandisa Penny Ntloko-Petersen, the first Black girl to matriculate from St Anne’s in 1985 and represents both progress and purpose. It stands as a powerful symbol of how far the school – and South Africa – has come, while acknowledging the work still to be done to expand access to quality education.

The Class of 2006 has embraced the challenge with energy and creativity. Alumnae are undertaking a variety of fundraising initiatives, including running marathons, open-water swims, hosting community sporting events and other charity gatherings, and asking friends and family to donate in lieu of birthday or celebration gifts!

In addition to these individual efforts, the class is actively seeking corporate sponsors to partner in reaching – and hopefully exceeding – the R1 million target. Since launching their campaign, the class has already raised 5% of their goal, an encouraging start that reflects strong early support.

“We know that R1 million is a bold target,” says the organising committee.

“But we believe in the power of community. If each of us does something – whether it’s running a race, hosting a small event, or making a donation – together we can make a life-changing difference.”

A Call to Join a Cause that Matters

The Class of 2006 is calling on fellow alumnae, South African businesses, families and friends of St Anne’s, to join the movement. Contributions of any size will help unlock opportunities for deserving young women in the local Midlands community.

Supporters can donate directly via the campaign page or get involved by sponsoring an event or partnering as a corporate donor.

As reunion plans gather momentum, the class hopes to celebrate not only 20 years of friendship but also the knowledge that their milestone has created meaningful change for generations to come.

To learn more about the Mandisa Fund or to contribute to the Class of 2006 campaign, please visit the fundraising page or email lize.hartley@insead.edu.

Sources: Supplied

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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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From recycling drives and cleanup campaigns to Spekboom propagation, sustainability is the heartbeat of St Mary’s RC Primary School – an effort that has officially earned them the title of Most Sustainable School in the province!

Retreat, South Africa (02 April 2026) – At St Mary’s RC Primary School, sustainability and fostering a greener environment through education aren’t just goals. They are a top priority embedded in every learner.

It is this very dedication that has earned the school the prestigious title of Most Sustainable School in the Western Cape as part of Nature Connect’s Sustainable Schools Programme in 2025!

The exciting announcement was made at the Sustainable Schools Western Cape Rewards Ceremony, recently held in Cape Town, which marked the final event of the national rewards roadshow.

According to Nature Connect, this award recognises St Mary’s RC Primary School for its long-term commitment to sustainability, strong whole-school participation, and a culture of consistency.

Despite being a low-fee-paying school and facing ongoing challenges in securing support and resources, St Mary’s has remained committed to its sustainability journey.

The perseverance, consistency and determination shown by teachers, learners and the school community alike make this recognition especially well deserved.

Over the years, the school has shown sustained engagement across several focus areas, including Production, Consumption & Waste and Community & Social Responsibility.

One of St Mary’s long-standing strengths has been its active and well-structured Eco-Club, made up of Grade 6 and 7 learners who meet weekly and lead a range of sustainability initiatives.

These include recycling drives, clean-ups, Spekboom propagation, and peer awareness activities that help build learner leadership and shared responsibility across the school.

Supported by partners including PolyCo, the school has also developed a comprehensive recycling system and, last year, received a new recycling centre to help formalise and strengthen its recycling efforts even further.

Long-term engagement

What makes St Mary’s RC Primary School’s achievement especially encouraging is the school’s long-term commitment. The school has been part of the Sustainable Schools Programme since its inception in 2021, and its recognition as the Western Cape’s top school reflects steady progress built over time.

That progress has been shaped by passionate teacher leadership, regular participation, and a clear willingness to keep learning, growing and improving year after year.

Recognising excellence across the province

While St Mary’s RC Primary School received the province’s top recognition, other Western Cape schools were also acknowledged for strong sustainability action in specific focus areas.

These included Pinelands High School for Biodiversity, Parkwood Primary School for Health & Well-being, Silvermine Academy for Energy & Climate Action, St James RC Primary School for Marine & Coast, and Sweet Valley Primary School for Water & Sanitation.

Additional awards recognised progress and learner leadership. Bel Porto School was acknowledged for Best Progress by a New School, Harmony Primary School was named Most Improved, and John Graham Primary School was recognised for its outstanding Eco-Club.

At the heart of the Sustainable Schools Programme is the belief that environmental learning should be practical, relevant and connected to everyday realities – values St Mary’s RC Primary School has reflected strongly through a wide range of learner-led, curriculum-linked and community-connected actions.

Sources: Nature Connect

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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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After nearly three months of searching and praying, the miracle one puppy owner had hoped for finally happened. Her precious furbaby that had gone missing in January is finally back in her arms!

Heidelberg, South Africa (02 April 2026) – When a puppy owner lost her beloved furbaby, Pou, time seemed to stand still. Unlucky in her search to find her little five-month-old dog, she reported it missing on 4 January 2026, spreading the word as far as she could.

The days and weeks went by with no sign of him.

Yesterday, however, almost out of nowhere, a kind gentleman from Ratanda visited the SPCA Heidelberg, carrying a little fluff ball he found lying in the street in front of his home.

The poor boy was covered in ticks and fleas, but thankfully, otherwise unharmed.

The SPCA’s Trainee Inspector, Elzette, took one look at him and immediately recognised the ‘fluff ball’ as the little pup that had been reported missing earlier in the year.

“This is Pou! This is Pou,” Elzette is said to have immediately exclaimed.

The SPCA Heidelberg contacted the dog’s owner, and she rushed over… and what followed was nothing short of pure emotion. Tears, relief, and overwhelming joy!

Pou was microchipped before returning home – a measure the SPCA encourages all pet owners to put into place to avoid the devastation that follows when a furry friend wanders far from home.

“A microchip can make all the difference – ensuring we can contact you immediately if your pet is found and brought to the SPCA or a vet. It could be the reason your story also gets a happy ending.”

Sometimes the longest waits lead to the most beautiful reunions. What started as a heartbreaking story of a lost puppy has unfolded into a heartwarming miracle just in time for Easter!

Pou is now safe. His tummy is full. And back home, where he belongs: in his mom’s loving arms.

Sources: SPCA Heidelberg GP news 

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