Good Things Guy

Ryan Julius shares his insights into South Africa’s disappointing experience at Tokyo 2020 and how they plan to put that to bed and succeed in France despite a lack of financial support from sponsors and the governing bodies.

Andre Barnard put on his bravery boots to rescue a tiny climbing mouse and snakes in distress as they clung to the fences surrounded by icy water. Without hesitation, Andre took the plunge to help the wildlife in distress, warming hearts for his brave act in the bitter cold. Read the story here: https://lnkd.in/dPJv8Th2

With Mandela Day around the corner and much uncertainty in the air, it is important to reflect and learn so we can create a better future. Mandela Day is now perhaps more important than ever! Here is why it is still relevant: Read the story here: https://lnkd.in/dTncTwjq

Shaakira Davood is the standing Chairperson of Youth4MPAs, which encourages more youth to get involved in Marine Protected Areas

Smoking has long been a known health hazard, leading to all sorts of nasty diseases. While traditional cigarettes are infamous for their damage, vaping has popped up as a modern alternative, often seen as the safer option. But let's be real: both smoking and vaping are pretty harmful. Understanding these dangers is important, but so is the journey of quitting. It's been 15 years since I ditched smoking and almost a year since I gave up vaping. How did I do it? Read the full article here:

Shannon Lee Sanilall adds her voice to the youth who are highlighting the importance of Marine Protected Areas in South Africa.

Our circumstances do not define us; rather, it is our determination and resilience that shape our destiny. When we break free from societal expectations and limitations, we can truly become champions. This philosophy is exemplified by Mpumelelo Mhlongo, a remarkable South African athlete whose story is one of overcoming challenges and inspiring countless others to strive for greatness. Mhlongo, born in 1994 in Chatsworth, KwaZulu-Natal, is a South African sprint and long jump athlete and a Paralympic Games record holder. Despite being born with a congenital deformity known as constriction ring syndrome and club foot, Mhlongo has never let his physical challenges hold him back. He grew up in Klaarwater, KwaZulu-Natal, and thanks to his parents' decisions, he was able to enrol in the public school system in the suburbs from first grade. His mother, whom he sees as the protagonist of his childhood, played a pivotal role in his development. Watch his incredible (emotional) journey put into a 2-minute short story video here:

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." These profound words by Nelson Mandela capture the essence of why education is so crucial. Mandela also said, "Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do." This is the driving force behind the University of Pretoria's (UP) incredible Giving Matters campaign, which has raised R82 million to support students in the 'missing middle.' 'The 'missing middle' refers to students who do not qualify for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding due to their household income being above the threshold, yet they still cannot afford higher education. This group often falls through the cracks of financial aid systems, making initiatives like UP's Giving Matters campaign vital for their academic and professional success. Get the full story here:

South Africans continue to shine on the global stage, bringing medals and titles back home with pride and excellence. The latest triumph comes from the prestigious Wimbledon Championships, where Kgothatso Montjane, alongside Japan's Yui Kamiji, clinched the women's wheelchair doubles title in a spectacular display of skill and determination. An elated Montjane expressed her gratitude to supporters and highlighted the significance of the crowd’s presence. “We are just happy that this year we managed to fight for it (like she said); it’s been a tough week playing each other and having to put our heads together to play doubles. It hasn’t been an easy one. But other than that, we are happy to be playing here and for the crowd for staying cause when you watch, the sport grows, so thank you for coming through. And I just want to thank my support back home,” Montjane shared. Get the full story here:

Not wanting a repeat of the 2017 fires, the Knysna community have been eliminating alien trees from the area; a public hack was hosted to get more done in the public space.