An Uber driver’s simple act of kindness, which captured the hearts of millions, once again proves that even the smallest gestures can create the biggest impact and remind us all of South Africa’s incredible spirit.
Johannesburg, South Africa (16 September 2024) – There’s something truly remarkable about the spirit of South Africans – a spirit that shines through in moments of kindness and compassion. It’s in the smiles shared with strangers, the helping hands extended to those in need, and the incredible stories that remind us of our shared humanity.
One of these stories unfolded in August 2023 but it continues to inspire us today. It’s the story of Ndodana, an Uber driver whose selfless act has captured the hearts of millions and reminded us all of the incredible power of kindness.
Last year, Ndodana, an Uber driver, found himself at the centre of a story that resonated far beyond the streets of Johannesburg. I had shared the “simple” story on social media, a story that began with an ordinary ride and soon transformed into something extraordinary.
During that ride, my friend from Miami accidentally left his bag in Ndodana’s car. Inside that bag was everything – his passport, money, and personal belongings.
Unbeknownst to us, Ndodana went on to the airport to pick up another passenger. It was only after he had completed that trip that he discovered the bag on the back seat. Instead of just leaving it or handing it over to the lost and found, Ndodana went out of his way to track us down. He drove back across the city, walked into the restaurant where we were dining, and handed back the bag – every item still inside.
Now, this might sound like a small thing, but sometimes the smallest acts are the ones that make the biggest difference. Ndodana didn’t just return a bag; he returned a sense of faith in the goodness of people. His actions showed that there are still those who choose kindness, no matter the inconvenience or the cost.
I posted the story to my personal Facebook and it garnered hundreds and thousands of likes. Since that unforgettable evening, Ndodana’s story has been shared across various platforms, even making its way onto prominent South African radio stations like 947 and 702. His simple yet powerful act of kindness struck a chord with so many because it reminded us all of the difference one person can make.
But the story doesn’t end there.
Yesterday, life threw me another beautiful surprise.
I called an Uber to take me to the airport, and who should arrive to fetch me? It was Ndodana himself! A year after that initial encounter, here he was again, with the same warmth and kindness. The universe has a funny way of bringing people back into your life, and this was one of those moments.
In my excitement, I shared this on Facebook:
Friends, my Uber just picked me up to go to the airport, and guess who it was???
Ndodana!!!!
He was so excited to see me. And when I realized it was him, I got even more excited.
We sommer hugged.
He told me that he heard me speaking about him on 947 and 702.
The opposite of a trigger is a glimmer. And this was definitely one!
What a bladdy great way to start this trip.
Good things!
Seeing him again was a joyful reminder of the positivity that exists in the world. We hugged, we laughed, and I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for this unexpected reunion. Ndodana told me he had heard me talking about him on the radio, and I could see the pride and happiness in his eyes. It was as if the universe had orchestrated this little miracle to remind us both that good things come full circle.
I know that social media often gets used for rants and complaints about bad service, but today, I’m doing the complete opposite… again! I need to give another MASSIVE shout-out to Ndodana – an incredible driver and an even more incredible human being.
His actions might seem small to some, but they are far from it. They are proof that kindness matters, that good deeds have a ripple effect, and that even in a world filled with challenges, there are still so many reasons to celebrate.
by 