- Goodson Mseleshe, a security guard in Durban, South Africa, used his last R100 (about KSh 700) to buy petrol for a stranded mother and her two children
- Goodson had just finished a night shift when he found the family stopped on a dangerous bend along Sarnia Road after their car ran out of fuel
- His employer, Excellerate Security, later presented him with a Distinguished Conduct Award to recognise his act of kindness
A South African security guard has received special recognition after using the last of his money to help a mother and her two children who were stranded on a dangerous road.
Source: Facebook
Goodson Mseleshe, who works in Durban, South Africa, had just completed a night shift when he came across the family on a bend along Sarnia Road. Their car had run out of petrol, leaving them in a potentially dangerous situation.
Despite having only R100 left, equivalent to about KSh 700, Goodson decided to use the money to buy fuel for the family so they could continue their journey home safely.
When the mother offered to repay him, he declined, saying he was satisfied knowing that she and her children had reached home safely.
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Security company honours Goodson Mseleshe
Goodson's actions eventually came to the attention of his employer, Excellerate Security, which decided to recognise his generosity publicly.
The company organised a special ceremony where he received a Distinguished Conduct Award in recognition of the character and compassion he demonstrated beyond his normal work duties.
The recognition highlighted how a simple act of kindness can make a significant difference to people facing unexpected difficulties as reported by Briefly News.
Love South Africa shared an update about the recognition on Facebook on 19 October 2026, prompting more people to comment on Goodson's actions and celebrate his decision to help the stranded family.
View the Facebook post below:
South Africans react to Goodson's act of kindness
The story attracted heartfelt responses from South Africans, with several commenters praising Goodson for helping others despite having limited money himself.
Rato Makamahle Mkhatshwa shared a personal memory of Goodson from when she worked as a cashier at The Hub on West Street in 2010.
She wrote:
"Oh I'm so happy to see this guy. When I was working at The Hub in West Street as a cashier in 2010 he used to come and buy in the shop and he will always give me money for my good service. I'm so happy to see him. May God bless him."
Roy Jee praised security workers and highlighted the demands of their jobs, writing:
"These are the guys holding this country together. 12 hour shifts and not a huge salary either. Bravo, you deserve the recognition."
Rachel Marais Smit also reacted to the story, saying:
"Now THIS man deserves funding. He GAVE... no TAKING!!"
Jane Dawson shared her appreciation for Goodson's actions, writing:
"What an exceptional man. We have good people in our country."
Samkelisiwe Sam-King Nkosi added a humorous comment, writing:
"I'm scrolling looking for a comment asking for his Capitec account coz I don't wanna be the one to ask..."
Goodson's story highlights the impact of everyday kindness
Goodson's decision to spend his last KSh 700 on fuel for strangers has resonated with people because it came at a time when he had little money to spare himself.
His actions also drew attention to the everyday contributions of security guards, many of whom work long shifts while helping protect people and property.
For the mother and her children, the assistance meant they could leave a potentially dangerous roadside situation and continue their journey home.
For those who reacted online, Goodson's recognition served as a reminder that generosity is not always measured by how much a person has, but by their willingness to help when someone else is in need.
Source: TUKO.co.ke