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

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

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 Retiring Gqeberha Officer Given His Flowers in Emotional Send-Off appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Just when his fans thought they had said their goodbyes, the Eastern Cape’s adored heavyweight traveller, Talhado, has officially made a surprise comeback!

Jeffreys Bay, South Africa (24 March 2026) – At the beginning of the year, the shores of Gqeberha brought in a very special visitor – an adult male southern elephant seal who spent nearly three weeks hauled out in the busy harbour.

According to Bayworld Museum Marine Mammals, after moving between a few spots, he settled at the Talhado Slipway – his favourite resting place. The Talhado staff welcomed and protected him, and so he earned the name ‘Talhado’!

Many visitors worried he might be ill due to his tatty skin, but he was simply undergoing his annual catastrophic moult.

Gqeberha’s midday summer heat proved a bit much, and by mid-morning, Talhado would slip into the water to cool off – floating for hours before hauling out again in the evening. While he rotated between slipways, his favourite remained the Talhado slipway, where he was left in peace.

After a few weeks of resting, moulting, and losing significant weight, Talhado finally headed back to sea.

His adoring fans were convinced that he had left for good (or at least until next year), but Talhado had other travel stop plans.

On Saturday, the NSRI Station 37 received reports of a Southern Elephant Seal hauling out on local beaches in Jeffrey’s Bay – and lo and behold, it was Talhado!

“Many will recognise this visitor as Talhado, the same seal who spent three weeks moulting at the Talhado slipway in Port Elizabeth Harbour in January and early February. He has now made his way down the coast to Jeffreys Bay,” NSRI confirmed.

The sea rescue organisation stressed the importance of the public maintaining a safe distance from him as he is a wild animal undergoing a natural physiological process.

Residents and visitors are requested to follow these safety protocols to ensure both public safety and the animal’s welfare:

• Maintain Distance: Keep at least 10 meters away from the seal at all times.
• Control Pets: Dogs must be kept on a leash and well away from the area.
• Do Not Intervene: Do not attempt to feed him, pour water on him, or encourage him back into the surf. He is ashore because he needs to rest.
• No Harassment: Please keep noise levels down and do not crowd the animal.

The NSRI team is working closely with Bayworld to monitor his condition and requests that anyone who happens to spot the seal on local beaches, to kindly report his location to the Bayworld Stranding Hotline on 071 724 2122 or contact NSRI Station 37 on 079 916 0390.

Sources: NSRI Station 37 | Bayworld Museum Marine Mammals

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

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 Talhado the Elephant Seal Makes a Surprise Pitstop in J-Bay appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Mivuyo Qabo rides from Gqeberha to the Union Buildings to raise national awareness about protecting women and children from violence and abuse.

Gqeberha, South Africa (12 March 2026) – A long road ahead for a cyclist carrying a powerful message about protecting the country’s most vulnerable.

Mivuyo Qabo, founder of the Mivuyo Qabo Foundation, has set off on an ambitious 1,200km solo cycling journey from Gqeberha to the Union Buildings, using every kilometre to shine a light on the urgent fight against gender-based violence, domestic violence and child abuse.

His initiative, titled “Cycle for Change: Protect the Child,” will see him spend the next eight to ten days crossing the country on two wheels. The journey is timed to conclude on Human Rights Day, when he hopes to hand over a memorandum to the Presidential Office calling for stronger action to safeguard women and children.

The effort has already drawn strong support from local leaders and community members. In a message shared by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, they highlighted the importance of the initiative.

“The campaign highlights the collective responsibility of communities, organisations and government to stand against violence and advocate for the safety, dignity and protection of women and children.”

In the comments section, supporters described the ride as brave and inspiring, with some saying his determination has motivated them to find their own ways to support causes that matter.

With Mivuyo moving forward with his bike, his hope is that the conversation around protecting women and children continues to move forward, too.

Sources: Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

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 Mivuyo Qabo Cycles 1,200km to Stand Up Against Violence appeared first on Good Things Guy.

They spend most of their days fighting against the tides to save others, but last Friday, the volunteers of the NSRI Gqeberha station proved that a true hero’s mission doesn’t always start on the shoreline.

Gqeberha, South Africa (11 March 2026) – They are usually the first responders at the first sign of danger on our shores and in our turbulent waters, but recently, members of the NSRI Gqeberha station rolled up their sleeves for a different kind of rescue mission.

This effort didn’t require launching a craft to pull someone from a rip current or responding to a drowning in progress; however, it will still help save many lives in critical condition.

On Friday, 6 March, a group of volunteers participated in the NSRI Blood Drive, donating blood to help make a life-saving difference.

“Every unit of blood can make a life-saving difference, and we’re proud to be part of a community that shows up when it matters most. A huge thank you to everyone who took the time today to give the gift of life,” the organisation said.

One unit of whole blood can help up to three people, and in some cases, blood is separated into red cells, platelets and plasma, where each part is used for a specific medical purpose. A single donation can support a cancer patient, help someone recover after surgery, assist a mother after a difficult birth, or give a trauma patient the strength to survive the critical first hours after an accident.

That is what these incredible volunteers and two-time heroes have made possible, motivated by the sheer compassion of looking out for those who find themselves in life-threatening situations.

“If you’re able to donate, please consider doing so! One donation can help multiple patients in need,” the NSRI encourages.

If you’re between 16 and 75 years old, weigh 50kg or more, in good general health, and lead a safe lifestyle, you can donate blood. Visit the South African National Blood Service website to connect with a donor centre or drive near you.

Sources: NSRI (Station 6 Gqeberha)

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

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 NSRI Gqeberha Volunteers Roll Up Their Sleeves For a Different Kind of Rescue appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The Gem Project is fighting to get young people off the streets and back in the classroom and on the right track to securing a bright future.

Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa (24 February 2026) – A third of young people are starting school but not seeing it all the way through to successfully complete matric – a sobering reality confirmed by the Department of Basic Education in its 2025 National Senior Certificate Examination Report. It is a crisis that the Gem Project is tackling head-on.

The Gem Project, which began life in 2015 primarily as a soup kitchen in Nelson Mandela Bay, is now fronting up to the reality that 30 to 40% of learners who register for high school but do not make it to matric. Even more damning is that only 49% of 2023’s Grade 10 pupils reached Grade 12 in 2025.

“You see these kids standing at traffic lights, and you think, ‘Why aren’t they in school?’, says Keith Brandt, Gem Project programme coordinator.

He shares that some are as young as 12 years old – a concern the organisation is working to change.

The Project’s Finding Your Feet programme is mentally preparing Grade 7 learners for high school and what will be expected of them. More than 20 Bay primary schools in areas such as Walmer, Seaview, Gelvandale, Jacksonville and Zwide are currently participating in the initiative.

Brandt, together with his colleague Ellen Khumula and members of the NGO’s community development team, visits these institutions every May and August, reaching a combined 2,400 learners.

The former teacher and his colleagues are also focusing on older teens who might have already dropped out of school. By putting this cohort through skills development programmes, they are preparing youngsters for the working world and teaching them how to draw up CVs and be effective in interviews.

The Project partners with companies that consider these candidates for opportunities when these arise. Furthermore, learnerships and internships are offered by several service providers that the organisation works with.

Brandt feels that even those who have passed Grade 12 would benefit from these sessions.

“You see all these matriculants rejoicing when they pass, but the next year they’re sitting at home because they have no idea what to do next,” he said.

“They don’t even have the skills to apply for university. This is where we are lacking in our current education system.”

Gem’s commitment to the development of young people doesn’t stop there. Mentoring programmes and holiday camps run in tandem with tertiary institutions like Varsity College seek to improve performance in subjects like maths while also teaching the children life skills. As a mark of the success of these initiatives, four members of the community team are mentees of the Project.

Six years ago, the organisation started its Gem Soccer League to enable youngsters from several children’s homes to play the Beautiful Game. Its seven soup kitchens across the metro continue, and these are supplemented with food-garden projects.

The Gem Project recently received a much-needed shot in the arm in the form of a R75,000 donation from SPAR Eastern Cape as a beneficiary of its annual golf day at the Port Elizabeth Golf Club.

“An amount like this goes a long way in helping us to continue the work that we’re doing,” Brandt said.

Sources: Supplied

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

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 the Gem Project is Fighting the Dropout Crisis appeared first on Good Things Guy.

After losing his arm in a hijacking, Peet Neethling is turning his survival into a mission. He’s embarking on an incredible coastal ride to change how disability is seen and to champion Ubuko Mpotulo – a teen whose resilience is as inspiring as the journey itself.

Eastern Cape, South Africa (17 February 2026) – Upon first introduction, Peet Neethling prides himself as a husband, dad of three, proud grandfather of 11 grandkids, and a businessman who also happens to be an in-shoulder amputee. In this exclusive feature, we celebrate his athletic heroism, which will ensure a young man is fitted with a new prosthetic he needs to keep moving forward.

Peet has always enjoyed supporting a worthy cause on the open road from his bike, having ridden with the Grandads Army for years, where he helped raise funds for the Eyabantwana for the Children’s Trust.

In April 2023, his life took an unexpected turn when he was hijacked and shot and lost my right arm above the shoulder.

“I needed to find purpose for my life,” he tells us.

Cycling gave Peet his life back, and he decided to pedal from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town to raise awareness for people living with limb differences from 26 February to 5 March. Over time, however, the purpose of his cycle tour has also grown into something more.

“My spirit was committed, but unfortunately, the support was not forthcoming. That’s when I learned about Ubuko Mpotulo, and it gave me a real reason to do this tour to raise funds for him.”

Ubuko is a bursary student at Selborne College. When he was two years old, he contracted meningococcal meningitis, a fast-acting disease that cost him both his legs and seven of his fingers.

Three years ago, the school community rallied to raise funds for Ubuko to be fitted with a mechanical hand. A team of friends and athletes, together with Selbourne College educator and co-founder of EduSport Jono Kruger, ran from Gqeberha to East London over six days to champion the cause.

Ubuko is now 17 years old and needs to be fitted with a new prosthetic due to growth. This is where Peet has stepped in, undertaking his inspirational cycle to help raise funds to keep Ubuko moving forward.

“When I met Ubuko through Jono, I was immediately touched by the humbleness of this youngster, and my heart just went out to him. Knowing that I’m going to be able to contribute in a small way to help make his life better. He’s an incredible youngster, and I definitely will ride for him again in the future,” a determined Peet shares.

Peet upholds a simple yet powerful mantra: “Where your challenges start is where your dream begins”. He’s participated in numerous cycling events, including one from Zimbabwe to East London, but this one is deeply personal and will be a true honour to a deserving youngster.

To support his heartfelt mission for Ubuko as well as change how disability is seen, donate here.

Sources: Peet Neethling

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

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 Peet is Cycling from PE To CPT To Keep Ubuko Moving Forward appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Bruno the pittie stood right in the line of fire to protect his family. He survived. Last week, he was reunited with his family – that moment was everything.

Gqeberha, South Africa (16 February 2026) – There’s no greater loyal companion than a dog.

A poem penned by Helen Harrington (shared last year by the Cape of Good Hope SPCA) paints the most beautiful picture of it. The unwavering loyalty and unconditional love a dog can bring.

The poem speaks about how when no one else will vouch for us, a dog would. They are our witnesses, our shadows, our champions.

This story reminded us of that poem.

Last week, the Animal Anti-Cruelty League Port Elizabeth shared images snapped by their Inspector Bev, capturing an emotional reunion between a family and their 8-year-old pitbull, Bruno.

Before we share those images, you need to know the story.

Weeks ago, Bruno was shot. Details surrounding the case are sensitive and an investigation is ongoing. What the animal welfare organisation can share is that Bruno bravely took a bullet to protect the people he loves the most.

“For now, the most important thing is that everyone is alive, including Bruno, despite the bullet that just missed his vital organs.”

Thanks to animal welfare heroes and veterinarians, Bruno survived. Last week, he was finally reunited with his people.

When Inspector Bev arrived at their home with Bruno in tow, the entire family ran out to embrace him. While their faces are blurred for privacy, the images still speak a thousand words.

The organisation thanked the 9th Avenue Veterinary Clinic in Walmer for handling Bruno’s recovery with love and compassion.

“Will we ever truly understand the love and loyalty of a dog? Just imagine what a beautiful world it would be if humans were the same.” the Animal Anti-Cruelty League Port Elizabeth added.

Sources: Linked above. 

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

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 Emotional Reunion After Bruno Took a Bullet for His Owner appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A good dose of penguin news to start the week! The Seabird Nursery at SANCCOB has all hands on deck, with 17 little African Penguin hatchlings, and more than 200 still on the way!

South Africa (09 February 2026) – The need for the work that SANCCOB does in supporting African penguins becomes evident in the stats that surround the critically endangered species.

Right now, fewer than 10,000 breeding pairs remain in the wild. The species’ population has plummeted by 97% since the early 20th century. Primary threats to colonies include food shortages caused by commercial fishing and climate change, and habitat destruction.

While the stats are sobering, there are positives, too.

Last year alone, SANCCOB hatched, hand-reared and released 107 African Penguin chicks that would not have survived without intervention. To add, its Cape Town and Gqeberha facilities rescued and treated a combined total of 1924 seabird patients.

Hatchlings are always good news – even when they require extra and love care.

“It is a busy and critical time inside SANCCOB’s Seabird Nursery. With 17 African Penguin eggs actively hatching and another 212 still in incubation, our team is providing round-the-clock care to ensure every chick gets the strongest possible start.” shares SANCCOB.

Hand-rearing African penguin chicks is no walk in the park. They must be cleaned and fed every three hours with constant monitoring to meet growing needs. On top of that, the team juggles hundreds of fragile eggs still in incubation.

“Eggs are weighed daily and assessed for viability through candling, a non-invasive process that allows our team to confirm whether an embryo is developing and assess its condition. As chicks begin to hatch, care intensity increases significantly.” shares SANCCOB. “From incubation and monitoring to the care of newly hatched chicks, this work requires constant attention from our team, with every step critical to giving each chick the best possible chance of survival.” 

Saving the penguins, one hatchling at a time.

“Each one matters. Each one is a second chance for a species on the brink.” it shared.

Sources: Linked above.

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

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 ⁠Around the Clock Care for SANCCOB’s African Penguin Hatchlings appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Pepi has known nothing but love. Now, through no fault of her own or her family’s, she’s running out of time. Let’s rally to help her!

Gqeberha, South Africa (06 February 2026) – Pepi is loved. Truly loved. She was rescued years ago by Nine Lives Cat Foundation, found her forever family, and settled into a peaceful, warm home every rescue animal dreams of. She had sunny windows to nap in and gentle hands to stroke her. All the comfort of belonging.

Which is what makes her current situation so heartbreaking.

Sadly, Pepi’s dad recently passed away. And now, her mom – suddenly widowed – is preparing to move into a retirement home that doesn’t allow pets. Moving is likely not a choice in this scenario, but the only option.

It’s a double loss for a little cat who has already experienced abandonment once before.

“Pepi is 6 years young, which is the perfect ‘mellow’ age for a lifelong companion. She is healthy, fully up to date on all of her vaccinations, and is a truly precious girl who has known nothing but a quiet, loving home.” shares Nine Lives.

She isn’t used to cages or noise or uncertainty. And yet, that’s exactly what could lie ahead if a new family isn’t found in the next four weeks.

The team at Nine Lives Cat Foundation has stepped in, just as they promised they always would. When Pepi was first rescued, they made a commitment to her that she would never be left without a loving home. A place to call her own. Now, they’re doing everything they can to keep that promise.

Unfortunately, more often than not, adult cats and dogs wait much longer to be adopted. Sometimes, it doesn’t happen at all. That’s not what Pepi knows or deserves.

“The Clock is Ticking. We have less than 4 weeks to find Pepi a new family. The thought of this sweet girl—who is already grieving the loss of her dad—sitting in a cold shelter cage is something we simply cannot bear to imagine. She deserves to go from one set of loving arms straight into another rather than becoming just another number in a system,” the foundation shares.

What she does deserve is a soft life. A warm lap. Someone who will speak to her kindly in the mornings and make space for her at the end of the day. She deserves to move from one set of loving arms straight into another.

No one’s to blame in this case. Sometimes, life changes in the blink of an eye and innocent animals are caught in the middle.

If you’ve been thinking about adopting, maybe this is your moment.

Not everyone can take in a cat — and that’s okay. But sharing Pepi’s story or passing her details along could be what helps her find her next home.

Pepi is currently in Gqeberha. Anyone interested in meeting her can find out more here. Let’s help her find a second happily ever after.

We’ll check in with Nine Lives for updates about Pepi. Let’s see how far hope can travel.

Sources: Linked above. 

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

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 Four Weeks to Find Pepi Her Happily Ever After appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Sydney Miller was visiting the area when the Boknes fires broke out. The flames came, and he helped fight them. Until a life-threatening snakebite changed everything. Today, the community he stood beside has raised over R200,000 to help him recover!

Eastern Cape, South Africa (14 January 2026) – Sydney and his brother Bobby ran towards the flames that raged in the areas around Boesmansriviermond last week.

They’re not firefighters; they just wanted to help. Shoulder to shoulder with community members who showed up to do the same.

Sadly, Sydney was bitten by a snake while working in thick smoke and poor visibility.

At first, no one realised how serious it was. He walked back to the car, insisted he was fine… and then collapsed. From there, everything moved fast. A local doctor recognised the symptoms, ambulances were called, anti-venom administered, and Sydney was transferred to Livingstone Hospital in Gqeberha, where he remains under close observation.

And now, the community he stood alongside has shown up for him in the most incredible way…

According to an update shared by the Boesmansriviermond Ratepayers’ Organisation (BRRAG), more than R200,000 has been raised to support his recovery!

Contributions have streamed in from across South Africa and even from as far as the US.

Those funds are now being used to cover Sydney’s medical expenses, specialised treatment, and travel costs, as well as to help make him more comfortable during what has been a painful and drawn-out recovery. Any money not used for treatment will go directly to Sydney to help support him financially while he’s unable to work.

Sydney is self-employed and has been stuck in Gqeberha for treatment ever since the fire. He was on holiday in Boesmansriviermond when he volunteered to help fight the blaze that threatened farms and homes. He didn’t have to step in, but he did. And it nearly cost him his life.

A special mention was also made of BRRAG committee member Gibbon Schickerling, who independently started a fundraising campaign that raised an additional R25,000 for Sydney.

For now, he remains in Livingstone Hospital’s trauma ward under close observation. While the organisation hasn’t shared specific medical details, they’ve confirmed he’ll be hospitalised for at least another week, possibly longer, and is still experiencing significant discomfort.

He hasn’t been alone. Sue Muirhead, another BRRAG committee member, has been visiting Sydney regularly and helping to make sure his needs are met while he’s far from home.

“Since we are unable to reach out to every individual or organisation personally, please accept this message of thanks as though it were addressed directly to each of you. We are deeply grateful for every act of kindness and support shown to Sydney during this challenging time. Your generosity has made a real difference.” shares BRRAG. 

This story started with a terrible fire but it continues because of community. Sydney was just visiting. But he showed up anyway. And now, thousands of people have shown up for him. That’s South Africa for you!

Sources: Supplied

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

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 Over R200,000 Raised for Snake-Bitten Hero of Boknes Fire! appeared first on Good Things Guy.