Kindness matters. After undergoing major surgery, beloved broadcaster Leanne Manas has returned to the news desk and admits that the true secret to her recovery has been the overwhelming kindness, love, and helping hands of friends, colleagues, and strangers alike.
Johannesburg, South Africa (21 July 2026) – As people, we’re almost always on the move, rushing from one task, responsibility, or project to the next – and regrettably, sometimes forgetting to take care of ourselves in the process.
In the frenzy of it all, award-winning broadcast anchor Leanne Manas was recently forced by life to slow down and hit pause. She needed to undergo major ankle ligament reconstruction surgery, requiring an extended break from the SABC2 morning news desk to recover.
After what she describes as a whirlwind, Leanne returned to work last week, armed with a crutch and wearing a moon boot. While she is thrilled to be back to doing what she loves, and feels herself getting stronger by the day, what has moved her the most is the incredible kindness and support of the people around her.
“The love and support from family, friends, colleagues, and complete strangers has been overwhelming,” Leanne shares.
“I’ve received so many emails and messages from people I’ve never met, wishing me well and telling me what Morning Live and I mean to them.”
Leanne admitted that these heartfelt messages have touched her deeply, even bringing her to tears.
The support is just as tangible behind the scenes. In a video posted on her first day back, Leanne is seen being assisted by her team member (and occasional TikTok dance-off partner) Allan Tau. He has helped her get ready for set and with navigating corridors in a moon boot every step of the way, and navigate the corridors in her moon boot, always with a friendly smile.
For Leanne, it is these unanticipated kind words and helping hands that have become the very motivation carrying her through a challenging season.
Work might not be “business as usual” just yet, but getting through each day has been made possible by supporters, friends and colleagues who have shown up as a solid support system.
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