South Africans shine brightest when faced with challenges, and 2024 was no exception – a year filled with remarkable stories of courage, innovation, and unity that proved our nation’s spirit is unstoppable.
South Africa (12 December 2024) – South Africans are champions in every sense of the word. Whether it’s overcoming challenges, achieving incredible feats, or simply showing kindness when it’s needed most, we prove time and again that our nation is made up of extraordinary people. And that deserves to be celebrated.
This year, much like Spotify’s annual “Wrapped,” we’ve decided to create our own look back at the year that was. It started in 2022 with our inaugural “South African of the Year” honour for Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers. We continued in 2023, celebrating Siya Kolisi, but for 2024, we’ve gone all out, expanding our reflection to encompass ten heartwarming, inspiring categories.
Here’s how we’ve wrapped up the year in good news.
Story of the Year
This year brought countless incredible stories to our pages, each racking up hundreds and thousands of views and sparking meaningful conversations. From a group of students going viral with their war cry to an 82-year-old completing the Comrades Marathon, South Africans rallied together to showcase what we’re made of.
But one story stole the spotlight: Lungelani Mbatha hailed a hero after finding over R17,000 left at an ATM. Instead of pocketing it, he took the cash to the bank in hopes of returning it to its rightful owner. His story captured hearts and reminded us all of the power of honesty and integrity. Read Lungelani’s story here.
South African of the Year
The most prestigious category this year had an overwhelming number of contenders. Every single South African who made it through 2024 deserves a nod, but one individual united the nation like no other: Rassie Erasmus.
Despite the World Rugby Awards overlooking him, we won’t make the same mistake.
Rassie’s leadership and vision helped the Springboks achieve incredible feats in 2024. Under his guidance, the Springboks clinched massive wins, displayed unmatched resilience and created unforgettable moments on the field that had South Africans around the world swelling with pride. Each victory was a powerful reminder of his ability to inspire and unite a team under immense pressure.
But Rassie’s contributions went far beyond the scoreboard. He became the backbone of the “Stronger Together” ethos, reminding us that as South Africans, unity and perseverance can overcome any challenge.
This year, Rassie is our South African of the Year.
SPAR Hero of the Year
Every Friday, we spotlight a SPAR Hero of the Week in our newsletter.
This year’s heroes ranged from individuals saving seagulls to others removing millions of kilograms of trash from rivers. But one story stood above the rest: Miriam Mzangaza, a trucker who, during severe KZN snowfall, selflessly shared her coffee and cornflakes with stranded families.
Her kindness brought light to a chaotic moment. Read about Miriam’s heroic act here.
Moment of the Year
Nothing united the nation quite like the breathtaking performance of our national anthem by Keabetswe (KB) Motsilanyane, joined by an entire stadium. The moment left no dry eyes, showcasing the unifying spirit of South Africans. It was a reminder that, despite our challenges, we stand together when it matters most.
Relive the moment below:
Innovator of the Year
Innovation flourished this year, but the Bree Street project in Cape Town stood out. By turning the iconic street car-free every Sunday, this initiative inspired connection, creativity, and community. It showed how public spaces could bring people together in meaningful ways. Explore the Bree Street story here.
Sportsperson of the Year
Tatjana Smith reminded us that greatness isn’t just about medals – it’s about character. After winning Olympic gold, Tatjana humbly highlighted that our daily victories, no matter how small, are just as meaningful. Her words inspired us to celebrate all our achievements, big or small.
Student(s) of the Year
This year, students Danjelle Midgley, Nadine Nyamangirazi and Precious Chidanyika represented South Africa on the global stage, showcasing their efforts in empowering students and their local communities and combatting climate change. Working with the Sustainable Development Goals, they collaborated with students from around the world and gained invaluable knowledge to bring back to South Africa and further their efforts in making a difference!
Charity of the Year
While renowned organisations like Gift of the Givers continue to do remarkable work, a smaller initiative stole our hearts this year. “Charity Begins With Me,” founded by Stephen Ferreira, started as a feeding scheme for 50 children. Today, it feeds over 400 every Sunday, uplifting an entire community.
Animal Story of the Year
Charlie, once the “saddest elephant in the world,” found joy and freedom this year after being relocated to Shambala Private Reserve. His story is a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late for a fresh start. Discover Charlie’s journey here.
Good Things Guy Top Fan of the Year
This one is for you, our readers. Without you, Good Things Guy wouldn’t exist. But one person stood out as our most engaged supporter: Celia Mauerberger. Thank you for sharing the good news and spreading positivity!
Through these stories, one thing is clear: South Africans are extraordinary. We thrive, we overcome, and we inspire. As we wrap up 2024, we’re reminded of the power of good news to unite and uplift. Here’s to another year of finding, sharing, and celebrating the good things. Thank you for being part of the journey – here’s to an even brighter 2025!
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