2024 has been a turning point for South Africa – a year marked by hope, unity, and a renewed sense of pride. From historic elections to rising national happiness, the good things happening across our country are undeniable, and for the first time in years, it truly feels like we’re on the right path.
Johannesburg, South Africa (30 December 2024) – As the founder of Good Things Guy, I have spent years sharing stories that prove one thing: good things happen every day in South Africa. And while every year has its share of highs and lows, 2024 has undoubtedly been one for the books – a year that has seen our country take bold steps toward a brighter future.
This year, South Africa experienced one of the most significant elections since 1994.
The anticipation was palpable, and many of us felt trepidation as we approached such a pivotal moment. But what unfolded after the elections has been nothing short of extraordinary. The newly founded Government of National Unity (GNU) came into power, and with it came a wave of optimism and pride.
For the first time in years, it feels like we are on the right path.
The GNU, composed of many fresh faces and experienced hands, has ushered in a new era of leadership. Many newly appointed ministers have taken up their roles with determination and a renewed sense of purpose, making tangible changes where it matters most. Whether it’s in Home Affairs, Infrastructure, or our Sports, Arts and Culture, there is a noticeable shift. Sure, we still face challenges—deep ones, in fact. These problems didn’t disappear overnight. But the difference this year is that there is hope, and it’s not just a word. South Africans are feeling it.
A clear indicator of this is the recent spike in our Gross National Happiness (GNH) index. After years of ebbing and flowing, the people of South Africa are happier in 2024 than they have been in the last decade. It’s all in the data. Happiness, of course, is not just about smiling faces – it’s about feeling secure, feeling proud of our country and believing in the future. It’s about the everyday acts of kindness and resilience we see all around us.
And more importantly, it’s about being reminded of these good things, day in and day out.
At Good Things Guy, we’ve always believed in the power of positive news. There’s a strong correlation between the stories we share and the happiness of our nation. Good news spreads hope, and hope drives change. It’s not about ignoring the issues but about finding solutions and celebrating the small victories that remind us of our humanity.
As we move forward, I’m more optimistic than ever. South Africa is not perfect, and we have a long way to go, but this year has shown us what we’re capable of when we come together.
And just like Dricus Du Plessis reminds us who we are, and the Springboks remind us what we are together, Good Things Guy is here to remind you that good things are happening all around us.
And they always will.
It’s easy to get caught up in the noise, but if you take a moment to look around, you’ll see the small acts of kindness, the triumphs over adversity, and the unshakable spirit of South Africans. We’re a country of doers, of dreamers, and of fighters. And whether it’s on the world stage or in our local communities, we’re proving that there’s so much more to celebrate.
So here’s to 2024, a year that’s reignited the spark in all of us. And here’s to the good things yet to come. Because if this year has shown us anything, it’s that together, we can keep building a better, brighter
future…
One good thing at a time.
This article was originally featured in the 2024 “Only Good Things” book. Order your copy here and enjoy free delivery anywhere in South Africa!
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