Compassion, opportunity and the bond between children and animals can help shape a meaningful future. Goodluck Mvelase’s journey with Funda Nenja is a beautiful testament to that.
Mpophomeni, South Africa (11 August 2026) – Some journeys begin with a child, a dog, and a dream, and Goodluck Mvelase’s journey with Funda Nenja is one of those very special stories!
It all started back in 2009, when Goodluck, who was just seven years old at the time, joined Funda Nenja’s weekly dog training classes with his family dog, Puppy.
Though they spent many cherished years together, Puppy sadly passed away from old age. But according to Funda Nenja, Goodluck’s love for dogs continued.
“He was soon joined by Spring, a very special and devoted dog. Goodluck and Spring grew up together, becoming the very best of friends. Together, they powered through their training classes and became much-loved members of our demo team, inspiring children and families for many years,” the organisation shared online.
The bond between Spring and Goodluck poured beautifully into the community. In 2016, Goodluck naturally became an instructor for Funda Nenja, where he taught many different classes, including the Top Class and Demo Team, sharing not only his knowledge but also his gentle and respectful approach to working with both children and dogs.
Even today, he still goes out of his way to encourage healthy and loving bonds between pets and their owners in the community of Mpophomeni. He is currently an Intern Animal Welfare Education Officer for the same animal welfare charity he first stepped into as a seven-year-old boy.
As part of his development, Goodluck spent last Friday morning with Funda Nenja’s Dog School Manager, learning from her and sharing knowledge at her home.
“Of course, there was one member of the team who was not particularly interested in the work! Lucy, her Border Collie, fell instantly in love with Goodluck! Throughout the morning, Lucy regularly interrupted their work by launching herself into Goodluck’s lap and covering him in schklicky kisses!”
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They Made It! Young Animal Welfare Volunteers Off to Cape TownHow cute! That moment alone speaks volumes about the care and compassion he naturally shows towards dogs. And it’s not only dogs that sense it; everyone fortunate enough to have spent time with Goodluck knows it too.
As Funda Nenja so well describes him:
“Goodluck is a responsible, gentle and exceptionally kind young man. His quiet manner, combined with his extensive knowledge of animal welfare and positive dog training, has earned him the respect and affection of the children he teaches. They listen to him, learn from him, and genuinely enjoy his classes.”
The Funda Nenja team doesn’t just teach children about dogs; it invests in them and helps them build a future through their love and understanding of animals.
From a seven-year-old boy attending his first dog training class, to an instructor, and now an Animal Welfare Education Officer, Goodluck’s journey is a wonderful example of what can happen when young people are given the opportunity to learn, grow and lead!
Sources: Funda Nenja
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