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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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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Before he even brought a kitten of his own home, Mohlaudi made a promise to be the best ‘cat dad’ possible – and last week, that very dedication saved a life!

Free State, South Africa (27 March 2026) – When a young boy named Mohlaudi first joined us at Cluny Animal Trust’s regular Tuesday Dip Day in Kgubetswana, Clarens, he didn’t attend or participate as a pet owner, or even have a pet of his own yet. But his curiosity was contagious, and he spent many weeks chatting with Nico, eager to learn everything about responsible cat ownership.

“So, when he finally arrived a few months later with his adorable kitten, Lunah, we weren’t at all surprised,” shares Cluny Animal Trust.

Mohlaudi immediately applied all the knowledge he had gained and made sure Lunah was fully vaccinated. By six months, he had her sterilised – showing what a dedicated and caring pet owner he truly was.

Last week, however, a very worried Mohlaudi rushed Lunah to the animal welfare team, noticing some troubling signs.

“She wasn’t eating, was vomiting badly, had diarrhoea, and was dangerously dehydrated and weak. Dr Elsa suspected a viral infection, although the exact cause was unclear. Lunah was immediately given intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and supportive care to ease her nausea.”

The organisation admits that those 48 hours were touch and go. But the team refused to give up on the special little kitten that was so deeply loved.

“We fought hard alongside her every step of the way. And almost like magic, she started eating again after two days with us. We cared for her closely for a full week, and when she finally went home yesterday to her very happy owner, Mohlaudi, she was a completely different kitten – stronger, brighter, and full of life once more.”

What a heartwarming turnaround! The Cluny Animal Trust playfully said that little Lunah still had nine lives after all – we’re just so happy she started one of those nine lives with the BEST cat dad!

As the Trust puts it, such stories remind us that every life is worth fighting for and that the dedication of an animal welfare team can truly transform the lives of pets and their owners.

Sources: The Cluny Animal Trust

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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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Photographer Martin Ras captured a rare glimpse of a police diver’s compassion and bravery, and the NSRI’s life-saving work.

Garden Route, South Africa (25 March 2026) – Mossel Bay photographer Martin Ras is rarely without his camera. He’s captured life, in all forms, as it unfolds along the Garden Route.

Last year in April, he happened to be on the scene when a local fisherman, Frans Quagga Smit, and his friend had been fishing along the rocks at The Point in Mossel Bay. The two had cast their lines and had been there for less than half an hour before it happened.

A massive wave had swept Frans right off the rocks and into the water.

Pulled beneath the surface for what must have felt like a lifetime, Frans finally came up gasping for air with his head just above water. But the current was strong and unrelenting, and no matter how hard he fought, it refused to give him back to shore. His friend couldn’t reach him, and after about 15 minutes battling water that had no intention of letting go, Frans knew he wasn’t getting back to safety on his own.

Thankfully, The Point was busy that day. Beachgoers had spotted the commotion and alerted the NSRI.

As rescue teams made their way there, a police diver, Andries Louw, dove straight in and heroically zipped through the water toward Frans. He reached him in just moments, wielding a pink rescue buoy that would help the fisherman stay afloat until he could be brought to safety.

The NSRI Station 15 team arrived shortly after, and the two were lifted from the water and brought safely back to shore.

Martin caught the entire thing on camera, capturing a rare glimpse of the police diver’s compassion and bravery, and the NSRI’s life-saving work that unfolds every day along our coastline. This week, he shared it online:

“For me, having a camera in hand during real-life moments like a sea rescue brings a mix of adrenaline, responsibility, and respect. You feel the urgency in the air, but at the same time, you understand your role , to document what’s happening as truthfully as possible. My camera is always with me because moments like these are real, raw, and important to capture.” Martin tells us.

By documenting and sharing these moments, he helps the world see, appreciate and support the work of the people who show up when it matters most – in this case, a brave police diver and the NSRI.

“I’ve had people ask why I recorded instead of helping, and my answer is simple: I’m a photographer, not a trained lifeguard or NSRI rescuer. In situations like that, the professionals are there to do the saving. My role is to tell the story, to show what unfolds, and to preserve a moment that many would never otherwise see.” he says.

Martin has been capturing life in Mossel Bay and further along the Garden Route for just about five years now. His passion for photography started long before.

“I started my career in the corporate world, working on the Sishen mine in the Northern Cape, where I travelled frequently between Johannesburg and the mine. It was during those trips that my passion for photography and video truly started to grow.” he says.

He and his family made the move to the coast just before lockdown. When Mossel Bay Tourism purchased one of his photographs, doors opened.

“Everything changed when Mossel Bay Tourism purchased one of my photos, which was later used on billboards across South Africa. Seeing my work out there made me realise that photography was more than just a hobby ,it was my calling. From that moment, I committed full-time to photography.”

Today Martin runs workshops teaching people how to capture great images on both smartphones and cameras, has built a membership community to help others grow, and sells fine art wildlife prints. Follow his work, or find out more, here.

Sources: GTG Interview.

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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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What started as a peaceful church outing turned into a powerful moment of friendship when two brave young men jumped into action to save their friend from a dangerous rip current at Kleinmond Main Beach.

Kleinmond, South Africa (25 March 2026) – During a Stellenbosch church outing to Kleinmond on Saturday, 21 March, a 21-year-old man was swept up by strong rip currents at the Main Beach during an incoming spring high tide.

Two friends immediately went to his aid in the surf zone, one using a bodyboard and the other an NSRI pink rescue buoy.

NSRI Kleinmond coxswain, Michael Markovina, confirmed that at the same time, NSRI Kleinmond rescue swimmers and a rescue vehicle responded to the drowning in progress. WC Government Health EMS and Overstrand Law Enforcement also deployed to the scene.

Upon arrival, an NSRI rescue swimmer launched into the surf, working alongside the two friends to successfully bring the man back to the beach.

The casualty, hypothermic and showing signs and symptoms of non-fatal drowning, was provided medical treatment by medics on the beach, and they were joined on the scene by EMS paramedics.

Following medical care provided on the beach, the patient was transported to the hospital by an ambulance in a stable condition, and he is expected to make a full recovery.

“The two Good Samaritans are commended for having the flotation devices, the body board and the pink rescue buoy, and for their efforts that contributed to a life saved,” said Markovina.

Pink rescue buoys should only be removed from their poles in critical life-saving rescues. The NSRI appeals to the public to help safeguard them.

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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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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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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Celebrating its founder Amy’s 40th birthday, The Grace Factory reflects on the growth of starting from a car boot in 2012 to now supporting thousands of mothers and babies.

Johannesburg, South Africa (24 March 2026) –  It’s always inspiring to look back and see how far a vision has come. The Grace Factory, a South African non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting mothers and babies in need, celebrated a major milestone this week as its founder Amy turned 40. While celebrating that milestone, the organisation reflected on where it all began. It’s all rooted in small acts of kindness and a vision that grew far beyond its humble beginnings.

It started in July 2012, shortly after Amy welcomed her first daughter, Erin Grace. Surrounded by unused baby clothes and toiletries, Amy began to wonder who might benefit from these essential items. Without a formal plan, she loaded her car and visited the local Spar, approaching car guards and offering bundles of baby supplies.

“What began as a simple gesture of kindness quickly took on a life of its own,” The Grace Factory said in a social media post. “Amy’s vision was to ensure that no mother or baby would go without the essentials they need, and that mission has only grown stronger over time.”

The organisation’s work expanded in 2015 when Amy’s second daughter was born prematurely. This prompted the creation of maternity packs specifically for mothers of preterm babies, providing vital support during challenging early days.

Since its inception in 2013, The Grace Factory has delivered care and dignity to over 29,000 mothers and babies, while also supporting more than 200 children’s organisations across the country.

“Each package, each donation, represents hope and reassurance for families across South Africa.”

Driven by a passion for helping others and a desire to leave a lasting legacy for her three daughters, Amy continues to guide The Grace Factory with heart. Making a tangible difference in the lives of thousands.

Sources: The Grace Factory

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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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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 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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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:

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

The post A Whole School Parade for a Golden Security Guard on His Birthday! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A desperate situation on the trails near Porterville ended with a collective sigh of relief on Sunday evening after an elderly couple was rescued from life-threatening heat.

Cape Town, South Africa (20 March 2026) – The heatwave in Cape Town has reportedly been unforgiving, and for an elderly couple who recently attempted a hike up the 22Waterfalls hiking route near Porterville, it quickly became dangerous.

The couple had started their hike at about 9 am on Sunday, but found themselves suffering from the rising heat and lost their trail, further compounding the situation.

They eventually called the Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) emergency number for help when the 68-year-old husband began to take strain in the hot conditions, showing signs of heat-related illness and dehydration.

Rescue teams were dispatched, and a small team aboard the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter was deployed to locate the couple.

The gentleman was treated on scene by a paramedic before being airlifted to a nearby landing zone for further care. His wife was also flown from the scene to safety.

During the operation, a second couple on the same route was identified as needing assistance. Once the initial evacuation was complete, a medic hiked in to reach them. They were provided with food and water and safely assisted off the trail.

The incident concluded shortly after 6 pm, with everyone safely off the trail.

“Following extremely warm conditions over the past few days, we want to remind all outdoor enthusiasts to take extra precautions when heading outdoors in hot weather. Start early, carry sufficient water, plan your route carefully and turn back before conditions become overwhelming.  Recognising the early signs of heat exhaustion and calling for help sooner can prevent situations from escalating,” WSAR said.

The rescue team wishes the elderly hiker a speedy recovery and thanks all responding teams for their coordinated efforts in challenging conditions.

Save and share the correct Emergency Contact Number for future reference: 021 937 0300

You can also support WSAR’s life-saving mission by donating here.

Sources: Wilderness Search And Rescue Western Cape

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