South Africa’s leading canoe sprint athletes impressed at Roodeplaat, building confidence as they begin their journey towards the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

Pretoria, South Africa (01 April 2026) – It was a strong showing from South Africa’s top canoe sprint athletes at the national championships, with performances at Roodeplaat Dam offering an early glimpse into what could lie ahead on the road to the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Among those leading the charge were Olympic hopefuls Hamish Lovemore and Esti Olivier, who both delivered dominant displays across their respective events. Their results underlined their current form but also set a solid foundation for the international season ahead.

The World Cup Silver medalist, Lovemore, made a brief but impactful appearance at the three-day regatta. Competing over just two days, he swept all three of his K1 races. The 1000m, 500m and 5000m, while also adding a K2 500m victory alongside Denmark’s Jonathan Dagnaes. His performance in the 1000m, in particular, stood out, finishing comfortably ahead of the field in what remains his key focus event heading towards LA28.

With his domestic campaign wrapped up, Lovemore quickly shifted gears, departing for a training block in Spain as he continues preparations against stronger international competition.

Olivier was equally impressive on the water. The experienced Olympian secured convincing wins in both the K1 500m and 200m events before teaming up with rising talent Alexa Godden to dominate the K2 races over the same distances. Her performances reflected a well-executed training programme and a steady build-up as she eyes another strong international campaign.

While the spotlight naturally fell on the country’s leading names, there were also encouraging performances elsewhere. Former Olympic medallist Bridgitte Hartley made her presence felt with gold medals in the K1 1000m and 5000m events, adding further depth to South Africa’s senior ranks.

This event was also an important platform for team selection. The event doubled as trials for several upcoming international competitions, including the senior World Championships in Poland, the junior and U23 World Championships in Canada, and the Olympic Dreams regatta in Slovakia.

For those athletes looking to make their mark on the global stage, more events are expected to be announced soon.

Sources: Gameplan Media/ Tim Whitfield 

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After being forced to go without water for years, Cecilia Moloantoa is the woman who stood up to bring change, rainwater harvesting and fresh hope to the village of Mmakau.

Mmakau, South Africa (24 March 2026) – Water shortages are a frequent occurrence in our country, an inconvenience that is, for the most part, a true struggle. However, in some areas, residents go without water for weeks or survive on a limited supply for months. In the village of Mmakau, north-west of Pretoria, there is no water at the taps at all, and there hasn’t been for years.

Mmakau’s Water Warrior

It is here that the Bryanston Catholic Church-supported ‘Rainwater Harvesting and Vegetable Growing’ project operates. The initiative is the brainchild of retired Catholic nurse, Cecilia Moloantoa, who chose to spend the Covid-19 lockdown in her home village of Mmakau rather than in Blairgowrie, where she had been living.

During the outbreak, when all South Africans were repeatedly told to “wash your hands!”, it was Cecilia who had the courage to ask: “With what?” – and the resolve to take a stand and do something about it.

Mmakau is a peri-urban district of Tshwane. The village was a rural mission station northwest of Pretoria towards De Wildt, then zoned as Ga-Rankuwa township, before being incorporated into Bophuthatswana. Later, it fell into North West Province and is now under the Madibeng Local Council and the traditional chiefdom of the Bakgatla-ba-Mmakau.

Like countless other villages with a similar political past, infrastructure has been criminally neglected, and service delivery is almost non-existent.

Water in Mmakau has been delivered to municipal tanks, often empty, and to private homes at a cost by the ‘water mafia’.

However, since 2019, this water crisis has turned into a harvest of hope. The ‘Rain Water Harvesting and Vegetable Growing’ project, which provides residents of Mmakau with tanks to harvest rain water, has supplied 16 Jojo tanks, guttering, building supplies for tank stands, piping and plumbing necessities for a self-help reticulation system, and a refurbished borehole decommissioned.

With the improved availability of water, people are also encouraged to grow their own vegetable gardens in their homes, thus ensuring food security for their families.

At present, the parish supports the ‘Rain Water Harvesting and Vegetable Growing’ project with a monthly contribution for water and in spring and autumn, vegetable seeds are sponsored by SAKATA Seeds.

Right now, the dry and impoverished Kizito community of Mmakau are planning to install a 10,000 litre tank, unceremoniously delivered by the municipality at the demand of Cecilia.

Can You Help Keep the Water Flowing?

J&P in Bryanston has paid for the materials for concrete for the tank stand; the community will pay for its transport to the site and provide the bricks. However, funding is still needed for the plumbing necessities.

For more information or to support a cause that will help provide water for the Kizito community, contact Judy Stockhill of the Bryanston Catholic Church Commission for Justice and Peace at judy@stockill.co.za

Sources: Supplied

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The Soulbent Project NPO is committed to keeping Gauteng communities beautiful, one cleanup at a time. Where others saw a wasteland at the Saulsville Cemetery, this dedicated team saw a sacred space worth fighting for!

Pretoria, South Africa (23 March 2026) – The Saulsville Cemetery in Atteridgeville, Pretoria, had gone far too long under the radar. What should have been a place of solemn rest had devolved into an unofficial dumping ground, choked by everyday litter and scarred by heaps of industrial waste.

But where the system saw a lost cause, the Soulbent Project NPO saw a call to action. Seeking to restore the sacredness of the public space that had become an eyesore, determined members of the environmental organisation rolled up their sleeves to physically reclaim the site last week.

This initiative formed part of the organisation’s ongoing commitment to keeping local neighbourhoods clean, safe, and respectful for everyone.

“Graveyards are sacred spaces where families come to remember and honour their loved ones. Unfortunately, many cemeteries are affected by littering, illegal dumping, and overgrown areas. As Soulbent Project, we believe it is our responsibility to restore dignity to these important spaces,” said Mashudu Makhado, Soulbent Project NPO CEO.

Volunteers worked hard on the day, clearing litter, removing waste, and improving the environment around the cemetery.

“Through these actions, we aim to promote environmental responsibility, community pride, and respect for those who came before us,” Mashudu explained.

Soulbent Project is a community-focused environmental non-profit dedicated to cleaning, greening, and restoring dignity to neighbourhoods. They conduct regular clean-ups of illegal dumping sites and rivers, recycling, vegetable gardening, and food relief initiatives.

Mashudu calls on community members, local stakeholders, and organisations to join hands with his team in protecting public spaces and maintaining cleanliness in neighbourhoods.

“Together, we can build a healthier and more respectful environment for present and future generations.”

Though the day ended with a heap of filled trash bags, there is still a lot of work to be done across Atteridgeville, and the organisation will continue its clean-up campaigns in and around the area as part of its mission to fight pollution, illegal dumping, and environmental degradation.

We applaud and thank all volunteers and partners who showed up to support this important work.

Sources: Mashudu Makhado

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South African architect Mangaliso Mtetwa has claimed a historic double victory at the 2026 German Design Awards for his design of a modular seating system that is inspired by the spirit of Ubuntu, kind to the earth and designed to bring people together.

Pretoria, South Africa (22 March 2026) – In an amazing, global win for architecture, Mzansi’s very own Mangaliso Mtetwa has achieved a rare and prestigious double victory at the 2026 German Design Awards!

His sculptural modular bench system, the Ubuntu Curve, claimed top honours in both Excellent Product Design – Furniture and Excellent Product Design – Circular Design, firmly planting South African innovation in the global spotlight.

More than just a seat, the Ubuntu Curve is a modular bench system that embodies the South African philosophy “I am because we are”. It is specifically crafted for public spaces and fosters community and inclusivity through its convergent form while adhering to circular design principles. Proving that furniture can truly bring people together.

It was designed and made in South Africa through the Nyambose Group and embodies the human-centred and regenerative ethos cultivated during his studies.

Constructed from recycled steel and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified timber, and engineered for modularity and repairability, it reflects the environmental responsibility embedded in his design approach.

For Mtetwa, his double win is inseparable from the mentorship and academic foundation he received at the University of Pretoria, where he studied architecture.

He recalls entering his first-year studio under the guidance of lecturer Dr Nico Botes and quickly realising that architecture is not simply about drafting buildings, but about learning how to ‘see’ – how to interpret space, context and human experience with clarity and intention.

Those early lessons in design theory, spatial intelligence and conceptual rigour became the cornerstone of his professional philosophy.

Following its double award win, the Ubuntu Curve made its international trade fair debut at Ambiente 2026 in Frankfurt, where it was presented to global buyers, media, and design professionals.

The moment marked an important international milestone for Mtetwa, as he showcased a South African design concept to the global design community. The recognition is particularly special for his alma mater as it highlights the strength of architectural education at UP.

We congratulate Mtetwa on his recent accomplishments that have proven that South African talent and design aren’t just world-class – they are also leading the way toward a more connected, sustainable future.

Sources: University of Pretoria

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A Pretoria primary school stopped everything to celebrate their security guard on his 54th birthday.

Pretoria, South Africa (20 March 2026) – This story made our whole team smile, and we just had to share it!

Jacob Maredi is the security guard at Laerskool Pretoria Oos in Pretoria. Has been for 28 years. Every morning he is already at the gate before the first bell where he greets kids by name, helps parents in and out, and even sorts the traffic when the robot goes out.

Every day he shows up with the biggest smile and the best energy. He’s 54. He works long hours, locks up after night sports, and then still finds the time to go for a run afterwards! He’s a legend.

Two Grade 7 moms, Frances and Marna, decided his birthday this year wasn’t going to pass by without a big celebration. They started a WhatsApp group, parents piled in, and the idea just grew and grew until it turned into a full school procession – an ‘optog’ – on Thursday morning.

“From pre-school all the way to Grade 7, learners walked together through the front gates – singing, cheering, blowing whistles, and holding handmade posters and banners.” says Frances.

It was the biggest show of love for Jacob.

The gates were done up with balloons and flags. Someone’s dad brought a portrait he’d painted of Jacob. Cupcakes for the whole school and beyond. Chocolates, vouchers, gifts from families who’ve been greeted by Jacob’s smile every morning for years. Even people walking past on the street stopped and came over to wish him.

Oh, and he got crowned as ‘The Golden Osie Security Guard’ with an actual crown and sash to match!

Jacob had zero clue it was coming. When asked why he thinks people love him, he said that it could perhaps be his kindness. A man who knows its one of the greatest superpowers of all!

“I did not expect it at all. I felt like I was flying. It was a very special day. I will never forget it.” said Jacob. “I love the children, especially the little ones. I enjoy working with them and helping them. I think people love me because I am friendly and helpful.”

Frances shared the note she wrote for him, which shows the genuine love and appreciation an entire school community holds for their Golden Osie hero. Originally, it was written in Afrikaans; we translated it.

“Dear Jacob,

Your smile and kindness have greeted us (the Geldenhuys family) warmly for eight years – every single day at the gate. You have no idea what you mean to this school. You are the coolest guy in Roper Street – the place where we’ll always find you.

Your kindness plays a huge role in the life of every child starting out at Osies. You teach them about respect and friendliness.

I want to say thank you to you.

We all hope you had a wonderful day and a great birthday, and that you enjoyed every moment.

With much love from every Barefoot-Osie and Osie parent.”

Sources: GTG Interview. 

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Equipped with interactive games, books, toys, and virtual reality experiences, the new Dream Room at Steve Biko Hospital will provide young patients awaiting treatment with a sanctuary for healing and relaxation from the reality of their illness.

Pretoria, South Africa (20 March 2026) – In a perfect world, no child should ever have to face the challenges, pain, and countless hospital visits that come with serious illness or injury. Yet, the reality is that many do.

Across the country and the world, these young warriors bravely confront sickness, drawing on remarkable courage and resilience with every treatment and procedure.

Thanks to organisations like the Reach for a Dream Foundation (RFAD), these children don’t have to endure these challenges alone or without moments of healing escape to remind them of the joys of childhood.

Recently, a new Dream Room was unveiled at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital Paediatric Clinic.

The new facility addition brings the total number of Dream Rooms across the country to 58, creating spaces where children awaiting treatment can find comfort and relaxation during their clinic visits.

This new Dream Room provides children awaiting treatment with a sanctuary for healing and relaxation from the reality of their illness. Equipped with interactive games, books, toys, and virtual reality experiences, these spaces provide much-needed relief from the clinical setting, allowing children to engage in imaginative play, social interaction, and creative exploration.

Each Dream Room is facilitated by psychology graduates trained in Early Childhood Development (ECD), ensuring that children receive guided support through carefully curated activities. These trained professionals help young patients reach their developmental milestones while fostering resilience and emotional well-being during their visits to the clinic.

“We’re grateful to Medtronic for partnering with us in transforming this clinic into a space that brings children joy and healing, safety and care while receiving treatment. The educational books, toys and activities guided by our interns will help make the nurses and doctors’ jobs easier,” says Chloe Katompa, RFAD’s Head of Operations. 

Gauteng MEC for Health, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, emphasised how RFAD’s work benefits children.

“Their impact is seen in hospitals across the province and country at large. We hope the Foundation continues to grow and make more dreams come true.” 

Reach For A Dream is committed to expanding this initiative, creating safe and inspiring spaces that help children believe in a brighter future. Dream Rooms are places of joy, imagination, and resilience, where healing becomes a positive and transformative journey for them and their families.

Sources: Reach For A Dream Foundation 

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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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Kutlwano Peta always dreamed her passion for accounting would take her places – and now, it has. When the opportunity to join an international chartered accountants talent programme arrived, she grabbed it with both hands and proved Mzansi’s excellence.

Pretoria, South Africa (19 March 2026) – Out of more than 1,800 global applicants vying for a spot in the prestigious Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) Global Talent Programme, Kutlwano Peta was one of only 16 to make the cut. Even more impressive, she was the sole participant representing not just South Africa, but the entire African continent!

The University of Pretoria Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting Sciences student first learned about the ISCA GTP through a university email invitation and was immediately intrigued by the opportunity for international exposure, travel, and global networking. An opportunity that was well aligned with her dream to make a meaningful difference through her dream career in accounting.

During the programme, Kutlwano completed case studies with organisations such as DBS Bank, explored real-world challenges and built valuable international networks. These experiences strengthened her problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Among the highlights of her time in Singapore were engaging with CEOs and industry leaders, attending the inauguration of chartered accountants, and experiencing the vibrant professional culture, including a memorable visit to KPMG.

Her biggest takeaway from the experience was believing in herself. She noted that being selected as one of 16 candidates from across the globe reaffirmed that accounting is a broad and impactful qualification that opens doors internationally.

“We are not limited. We are needed and can make a difference wherever we go. The youth is the future,” she says.

Looking ahead, Kutlwano looks forward to soon joining the office of the Auditor-General of South Africa, where she hopes to apply all she’s learned, make her mark, and continue to lead with excellence.

Sources: University of Pretoria 

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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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BarkingMad SA is helping this beautiful St Bernard find her forever family, and she’s ready to bring joy and lots of love to the right home.

Pretoria, South Africa (18 March 2026) – BarkingMad SA, one of South Africa’s leading online animal welfare platforms, is helping families safely and responsibly re-home pets while providing guidance, education, and networking support for rescues and welfare organisations across the country.

And now, all eyes are on Lulu, a striking 9-year-old St Bernard currently living with her family in Lynwood, Pretoria. Lulu’s owners are seeking a loving new home for her before the end of March, and she could be the perfect companion for the right family. Known for her gentle nature and her ability to get along with other dogs of all sizes, Lulu is ready to settle into a home where she can be cared for and loved.

Before moving to her new home, Lulu will be fully sterilised, vaccinated, and microchipped, ensuring she’s healthy and ready to start this next chapter in her life. Her ideal home would be one that can give her plenty of attention, space to move, and the care she deserves.

Let’s help Lulu find a forever home where she can thrive and bring joy to her new family.

If you’re interested in welcoming Lulu into your family, you can get in touch via:

• Email: woof@pawsrus.co.za
• WhatsApp (messaging only): 083 518 0447

Sources: BarkingMad SA 

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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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Born with Fibular Hemimelia and facing various challenges with the most unshakable spirit, double-amputee Miki Jovanovic has just received the ultimate birthday gift… and it’s all thanks to the kindness of strangers who chose to care!

Pretoria, South Africa (13 March 2026) – By the tender age of one year, a rare condition known as Fibular hemimelia had already impacted Miki Jovanovic’s life in a way very few could ever fully understand.

Both her legs were amputated as a result of not forming properly – a life-altering procedure that could easily have sent anyone into a dark place of isolation, but not Miki.

Thanks to the support of her loved ones and incredible doctors, they always found a way to ensure that Miki could walk.

“Thanks to them, I’ve had the chance to grow, learn, and live as fully as possible,” Miki said.

With an unshakable spirit and the aid of prosthetics to enhance her mobility, she has lived a full, active life well into adulthood. Those who know her best describe her as ‘a remarkable 29-year-old athlete and advocate’.

However, as her 30th birthday approaches on 26 March, her needs have changed as she requires more permanent prosthetics capable of carrying her into the next chapter of her life. This is not only a matter of discomfort but also a significant safety risk that threatens her independence.

“After careful consultations with my Prosthetist (leg doctor), we’ve identified the best prosthetic solution for me: the right legs, the right feet, and the right silicone liner to meet my needs. The only barrier is the cost.”

Using her social media platforms, word of mouth, local media and fitness event fundraisers, Miki spread the word about her efforts to raise R250,000 to get her ‘new legs’.

And the response? Mind-blowing!

Generous donations from individuals and organisations poured in from far and wide, with every single bit of support helping her move forward – quite literally.

Even more touching, Miki’s aunt, Susann Rojas, wrote into the Jacaranda FM Good Morning Angels show, informing the team all about her story and hopes to secure new permanent prosthetics. Miki was invited to the programme and shared all about her journey.

Moved by her testimony and her drive to maintain her dynamic lifestyle and professional commitments, the Good Morning Angels Fund contributed the full R100,000 Miki still needed to meet her 30th birthday challenge!

And as a bonus, she will be able to wear a pair of heels for the first time in her life!

Overwhelmed by gratitude, Miki thanked her amazing gym family, her mother Lee Grobler, who has been her biggest supporter since day one, her friends, community, donors, and the Good Morning Angels – all of whom chose to care, support, encourage, and show kindness.

“Because of all of you, I get to keep walking, training, boxing, and stepping confidently into my next chapter. This isn’t just funding – this is independence. This is freedom. This is a community. From the happiest, most grateful heart…THANK YOU,” a grateful Miki said.

Congratulations and happy birthday in advance, Miki! With your ultimate gift secured, we hope this trip around the sun will be the best one yet!

Sources: Linked Above

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news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the
Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things
Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes
there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes
& hear their incredible stories:

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

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The Javett Art Centre and the University of Pretoria are painting a brighter future for our country’s youngsters and promising creatives by bridging the gap between the classroom and world-class art.

Pretoria, South Africa (13 March 2026) – Though magnificent in its many different details, expressions, strokes, patterns, textures and unique messages, art can easily be under-appreciated in local schools or communities at large.

To reshape how art is taught and experienced, the Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria, in collaboration with the UP Faculty of Education, has launched the One and the Many teacher and learner resource guide.

The art education resource is produced to meaningfully transform art teaching and learning across primary, secondary, and Further Education and Training (FET) levels.

It is fully CAPS-aligned and specifically developed to complement Javett-UP’s current exhibition. One and the Many was brought to life through a partnership with the Department of Humanities Education and is proudly supported by the Australian High Commission in South Africa.

This initiative is part of Javett-UP’s ongoing work as a ‘Living School’ – a methodology that embraces art and museum spaces as places of discovery, through dynamic and innovative approaches to learning and public engagement.

During the 2025 academic year, the Javett-UP curatorial team collaborated with lecturers Dr Deléne Human and Ulricke Nelson, working closely with third-year Art Education (BEd) and Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) students to develop innovative resources linked to the exhibition themes The Altar, Fractured Forms, and The Garden.

Dr Deléne Human, Senior Lecturer and Visual Art Education coordinator, said this collaboration has allowed them to practice public pedagogy – where art becomes a site for dialogue and socio-culturally situated visual meaning-making.

“It has been inspiring to witness our students grow into socially responsive practitioners who can bridge the gap between academic theory and community engagement. The success of this project lies in its ability to transform the Art Centre into a participatory learning environment. This initiative allows student-teachers to engage diverse learner groups effectively, connecting contemporary art themes to the lived realities and cultural contexts of South African communities.”

One and the Many Launch

The launch was marked by an Implementation Workshop attended by 120 learners from Meetse A Bophelo Primary School and Eersterus Secondary School, alongside teachers and student educators.

This dynamic, hands-on session allowed student educators to test the resource materials in real time, engaging directly with learners inside the exhibition space.

In addition, they gained feedback on their engagement, clarity, and curriculum alignment, helping refine the resource while providing learners with meaningful, immersive experiences in visual arts education.

Responding to the resource and the workshop, Ms Koketso Mango, a teacher from Meetse A Bophelo Primary School, said:

“The art exhibition was exciting, educational and opened our eyes to the narrow thinking we had when we thought of art. Though confusing, it was breathtaking to see how different people express themselves using different themes of art and different forms of art. The practical part of the art was a bit challenging for learners and myself because we were chasing perfection instead of having a simple final product. More of these should be introduced to township schools to broaden our understanding of Art.”

Jackie Rens, Chief Executive Officer of Javett-UP, shared that it is through funded partnerships that the true strength of the collaboration with University of Pretoria students and faculty and the wider Tshwane education community is at its best.

“By taking their training into a real-world gallery environment, the student teachers are not only developing resources but actively shaping the future of how art is taught, experienced and understood in our schools and communities. We are deeply grateful to the Australian High Commission in South Africa for making such vital educational initiatives possible.”

The resource, designed by Danielle Wallace, is intended to be primarily used as a classroom aid for teachers and is richly illustrated and accessible. It also includes a link to teacher resources and metrics.

Schools interested in booking guided tours aligned to the CAPS curriculum, including customised educational resources, can contact bookings@javettup.com for further information.

Sources: University of Pretoria 

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