After witnessing a simple act of kindness, my hope in humanity has been restored.
In a country often clouded by violence, murders and negativity it’s moments like these that remind us of the goodness still alive in people’s hearts.
Most of us must have seen or read the article about a Riebeek West resident named Johan Kotze who had an extra ticket to watch the Springbok take on the Barbarians live at Cape Town Stadium.
Kotze showed the true spirit of ubuntu when he gave his extra ticket to a man living on the street, known as Luigi, whom he met a few hours before the game.
Awh, was my immediate response when I first heard of the story. And I wasn’t the only one.
Kotze stole the hearts of Capetonians. But more than that he gave his new best friend an experience of a lifetime. Made his year. Made him forget his circumstances and who knows, maybe even restored hope for Luigi.
This experience, though small, carried immense weight—reigniting my belief in compassion, connection, and the quiet strength of everyday human decency.
It once again showed the unifying power of sport.
For a few hours two men from completely different backgrounds and circumstances shared beers, talked, cheered as they both have an equal love for the game.
It can be done. There is the proof. We don’t have to live in silos.
Hundreds of soup kitchens were birthed during the Covid-19 pandemic and are still active today. Dare I say the kitchens are even more needed today than they were five years ago. It’s always heartwarming to see how ordinary South Africans show up for each other.
This while our political landscape seems to be crumbling as leaders fight for power at our expense.
As we approach Mandela Day, let us be reminded that it is the small acts of kindness that can brighten someone’s day.
The high cost of living affects all of us. From fuel and electricity hikes to soaring food prices and rental costs, the pressure on households, especially low-income and vulnerable communities has never been greater.
You need only to drive through the traffic lights or enter a supermarket to see the number of people asking for a rand or two to get some food. Basic needs that were once manageable are now becoming unaffordable for many, forcing people to make impossible choices between shelter, food, healthcare, and dignity.
This economic reality has had a particularly harsh impact on those already living on the margins, including those living on the street.
As a nation, we face many challenges—but when it comes to showing up for one another, we stand united. This is what makes us unique. This is what binds us. May we never lose sight of that.
