SA Start Crowdfunding Campaign For Margaret Van Wyk

Photo Credit: On File

South Africans are rallying behind Margaret van Wyk… and honestly, thank goodness for that.

South Africa (27 August 2016) – In a world that too often thrives on tearing people down for their mistakes, it’s been heartening to see thousands of locals standing up for a woman who made a very human error.

If you haven’t seen the story (and if you have, please be kind), Margaret Van Wyk meant to send a private photo to her husband, Chris. Instead, she accidentally posted it in a WhatsApp group filled with fellow hockey parents. The group, aptly named “hokkie ouers,” was definitely not the intended audience.

Realising her mistake, she followed up with a message saying: “Sorry everyone. Made a mistake. Was meant for my husband. Hi Chris, have you left yet?”

But instead of being left there, someone in the group screenshotted the image and shared it online, turning Margaret into a trending topic for all the wrong reasons. The hashtag #MargaretVanWyk shot to the top of social media charts, with jokes, memes, and cruel commentary quickly following.

Here’s the thing though: that photo was meant for one person. It wasn’t malicious, it wasn’t intentional, and it certainly wasn’t meant to go viral.

And South Africans, in true ubuntu style, are now speaking up in her defence. Many are deleting their posts. Others are publicly calling out the cruelty. And one man, Danie Theunis, even started a crowdfunding campaign to help Margaret – either with a holiday to escape the madness or with legal assistance should she want to take action against the person who leaked the photo in the first place.

“I’m just an average guy from Cape Town,” Danie wrote. “I created a Twitter account two days ago to help spread the word and rally support for Margaret.”

His campaign message is simple and powerful:
“Let’s raise money to send Margaret on holiday… maybe even a second honeymoon with Chris. Let’s treat her the way we would hope to be treated if this was our mistake.”

That’s the kind of energy we love to see.

So, if you’ve shared the photo – delete it. If you’ve laughed at the meme – think again. And if you’re looking for a reason to believe that people are still good – here it is.

To support the campaign or simply show Margaret some kindness, click here.

Because kindness matters. And this woman deserves a break.