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.”
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