One simple act of kindness, one honest heart and one forgotten handbag… and just like that, South Africa is reminded that everyday heroes are still among us.
Johannesburg, South Africa (28 April 2025) – Sometimes, all it takes is one small moment to restore a bit of our faith in the goodness of people… and this story is exactly that.
South African icon PJ Powers – the legendary singer-songwriter affectionately known as “Thandeka” – has shared a beautiful story that is now making its way around social media for all the right reasons.
PJ Powers has been a celebrated figure in South African music for decades, famously blending pop and traditional sounds and using her platform to bring people together through difficult times. And now, she’s using her voice to highlight a different kind of hero.
It all started at Fourways Mall, where PJ’s sister, Priscilla Ann Dunlop, was doing a spot of shopping. In a flurry of errands, she accidentally left her handbag, packed with everything from her cellphone to her wallet, driver’s licence and ID card, in her trolley. It was only when she was nearly at the mall exit that she heard a commotion behind her. Running towards her, bag in hand, was Phumudzo Netshitomboni, a guard working for Fidelity Services Group. Shouting to get her attention, Phumudzo had spotted the forgotten handbag and didn’t hesitate for a second to sprint after her, making sure everything was safely returned.
PJ shared the heartfelt moment on her Facebook page, writing:
“I’m posting it cause it’s these simple acts of kindness and honesty we need to hear about. Phumudzo is a credit to his company and in my opinion deserves a pat on his back for doing his job with such enthusiasm.”
And it turns out the world agreed. PJ’s post has already garnered over 63,000 likes and sparked a flood of comments celebrating Phumudzo’s beautiful act of integrity:
“So encouraging and it is good news indeed to have some amongst who are still perfect human beings.”
“Makes my heart so happy ❤️ you did good and are an incredible human Phumudzo.”
“Thanks you Phumudzo. But also to you Legend PJ Powers enkosi…. remember you could have kept quiet about it but you chose to give this young man his flowers. Also people like you who appreciate the good done must be also thanked… Phumudzo is a star.”
“Great! This is a great gesture and the spirit of ubuntu! Well done young man!”
Stories like this are a breath of fresh air! A reminder that while the world can sometimes feel heavy, there are still people choosing kindness, choosing honesty and going the extra mile simply because it’s the right thing to do.
Phumudzo’s quick thinking and genuine heart didn’t just save Priscilla from a massive headache, it gave all of us a story worth smiling about.
To Phumudzo: thank you for being a real-life good thing. Your actions prove that integrity and goodness are alive and well, stitched quietly into everyday moments. May your kindness ripple far beyond Fourways Mall and inspire many more just like you.
by 