Funny Placards Inspire Good Samaritan to Buy Jobless Dad a House

Like thousands of South Africans, warehouse packer and father of three, Lusindiso Malgas (27) – originally from Sterkstroom in the Eastern Cape – lost his job due to the covid19 pandemic.

Without an education and with a lack of resources, Lusindiso found a way to spread joy, as well as support his family, by drawing up funny placards to entertain passers-by in Blouberg, relying on his sense of humour that has always gotten him through tough times.

“When I lost my job, I was like what am I going to do? How am I going to survive? All I know is how to make people laugh and how to talk to people. I had no choice but to work and put food on the table,” says Lusindiso.

With his warm personality on full display, Lusindiso, caught the attention of a good samaritan and business consultant, Brendan Cottle (35), who launched a crowdfunding campaign on the proudly South African platform BackaBuddy to help Lusindiso get back on his feet.

Funds raised will help Lusindiso realize his dream of becoming a homeowner and be reunited with his children who are currently living with his parents, as he is unable to provide for them.

“Seeing Lusindiso’s smile brightened up my morning commute and I know the same can be said for many others. I am a very optimistic and positive person and when I saw Lu’s smile and happiness to do what he was doing, made me think about his and the situation of others, especially during the country lockdown. I hope with this campaign, Lusindiso’s story can reach more people and that his positivity can circle the globe.” says Brendan.

The campaign went live on 22 July 2020 and has thus far raised over R34 000 towards his fundraising goal of R250 000, with contributions from 130 donors both locally and internationally.

“I would like to thank the Capetonians, as well as people across the country and overseas who have helped me and understood my situation. Those are the good people. I don’t know how I survived. But I did. God is great!” says Lusindiso.

Make a donation to support Lusindiso’s crowdfunding campaign here.  Alternatively make a donation via Snapscan here.

Donations to Lusindiso’ crowdfunding campaign will be transferred directly to relevant suppliers, at his request, to ensure that funds are used for their intended purpose. With additional funds, Brendon hopes to help Lusindiso launch a t-shirt business to help him support his family going forward.

WATCH Lusindiso’s video appeal: Selling A Smile

Keep up with Lusindiso by following his Instagram page, which has already gained over 3,700 followers.

Take a look at more of Lusindiso’s head-turning humorous signs: