When C’nethemba and Luvuyo found a stranger’s wallet at Cape Town Airport, they didn’t just return it – they restored faith in kindness with a simple, selfless act.
Western Cape, South Africa (05 November 2024) – Sometimes, the smallest actions carry the biggest impact. Kindness really is everywhere – and it’s often found in the most unexpected moments. This was precisely the case for a couple at Cape Town International Airport who turned an ordinary find into a moment of extraordinary humanity.
On the 2nd of November 2024, C’nethemba Dastile-Bolani and her husband, Luvuyo Lakel Bolani, stumbled upon a wallet at the airport. It held R647.50 in cash and a Capitec bank card but no identification or contact information.
Faced with the mystery of a wallet with no clear owner, many might have taken the cash and moved on – but C’nethemba and Luvuyo felt called to do something more.
Without a way to directly contact the owner, the couple made a heartfelt choice: they decided to deposit the R647.50 straight into the Capitec account linked to the card, hoping it would be a helpful gesture for the wallet’s rightful owner. They then posted about it on Facebook, in the hopes that the story would somehow reach Mr Z. Tshambu, the name on the card, to let him know they had his wallet and would gladly return it.
“Because we couldn’t find a way to get hold of him, we then transferred the money to his account,” they explained in the post.
“If you know him, please let him know. Mr Z Tshambu, if you lost your wallet izolo, we transferred your money, sir.”
The post took off on social media, going viral with thousands of shares, likes, and heartwarming comments. People across the nation celebrated their honesty and the pure intention behind their actions, with many inspired by their example of Ubuntu – a spirit of togetherness and humanity that echoes deeply in South African culture.
“Wow, it’s rare to find people with the spirit of UBUNTU.. Thixo anisikelele,” one user commented.
Another added, “Wow, you’re both blessed by just thinking about doing the right thing. God be with you guys.”
Others felt encouraged by the couple’s approach, recognising the lesson it carries for all of us.
“At least you also taught many of us what to do in this situation. Well done.”
One message, written in Xhosa, resonated with countless people: “Oh yaze yantle into eniyenzileyo banqabile abantu abanje ngani kwelixesha siphila kulo. U Thixo anisikelele kwande mntase,” which translates to, “Oh, what a beautiful thing you have done. People like you are rare in these times. May God bless you and increase you, my friend.”
This act of kindness is a reminder of how much good can come from simply choosing to do the right thing. In today’s busy world, it can be easy to overlook the needs of others, but the Bolanis’ story is proof that empathy and generosity still hold power. They could have just walked past the wallet or taken the money and moved on, yet they went above and beyond to ensure Mr Tshambu’s money was safe and his wallet would be returned.
We’ve reached out to the couple for an update on whether they’ve managed to connect with Mr Tshambu, and we’re hopeful to share some good news on that soon!
Thank you C’nethemba and Luvuyo – South Africa’s own ambassadors of goodwill, proving that compassion really can be found everywhere… if only we take a moment to look.
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