WATCH: Jacaranda FM grants ‘Feel Good Kid’ Desmond Koolen’s Springbok dream

The Springboks have sparked national pride by winning the 2023 Rugby World Cup, bringing the Webb Ellis Cup back home.

After a warm welcome from South African fans, the team is starting their trophy tour this week. One young fan, Desmond Koolen, captured global attention with his delightful rendition of ‘I Feel Good’ at a school event.

Celebrities such as Will Smith and Wayne Brady shared the viral video, showcasing Desmond’s positive and infectious spirit.

Desmond’s journey with Jacaranda FM’s Breakfast Show

Since then, Desmond has become a beloved figure in the country, developing a strong relationship with Jacaranda FM’s Breakfast With Martin Bester team.

He has made multiple appearances on the show after his video went viral. Throughout the Rugby World Cup season, Desmond has charmed listeners with his sweet messages and tips for the Springboks.

Desmond has always dreamed of meeting his sports idols. Upon hearing this, Martin Bester from Jacaranda FM pondered during his popular #HowHardCanItBe segment how to fulfill Desmond’s wish of meeting his favourite Springbok rugby players, Siya Kolisi and Cheslin Kolbe.

On Jacaranda FM’s Instagram, a video captures the touching moment when the young boy meets his two beloved sports idols in person.

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Martin Bester’s connection with ‘Feel Good Kid’ Desmond

Delighted to have made this meaningful gesture for young Desmond, Martin Bester elaborates on the story behind his connection with the boy.

“We call Desmond the ‘Feel Good Kid’ because his rendition of ‘I Feel Good’ went viral – and the world loved it.

“I had him on the show, and we quickly realised that there is something truly special about him. When I asked him about rugby, he ended up giving Siya Kolisi some great advice which, once again, went viral.

“People loved it, and I thought, if he can get acknowledgment from international superstars, then surely he deserves recognition from Siya Kolisi or Cheslin Kolbe – both of whom are his heroes,” said Martin.

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Desmond’s unforgettable meeting with the Springboks

Martin and the other members of Jacaranda FM’s Breakfast With Martin Bester team made a remarkable attempt to get Siya or Cheslin to recognise Desmond.

Their kind-hearted and supportive listeners once again came together, demonstrating the amazing community spirit of Jacaranda FM.

Thanks to the collective effort, Desmond’s dream became a reality as he not only met but also spoke to the entire Springbok rugby team.

Jacaranda FM has always been recognised for its generosity and its capacity to fulfill dreams.

Martin extended his sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed to arranging Desmond’s meeting with the Springboks.

“Witnessing Desmond being invited on stage to speak to the Springboks was a dream come true for the young man, a moment he will cherish forever.

“The Springboks serve as a remarkable source of inspiration for South Africans, especially young children like Desmond, and this heart-warming story reflects the beauty of South Africa,” further elaborated Martin.

Desmond’s contagious optimism and cheerful nature have won over the affection of South Africans. Adele Koolen, Desmond’s mother, revealed on Breakfast with Martin Bester that they took Desmond into foster care in 2020 when he was only three and a half years old.

The adoption was completed in 2021. Desmond, a remarkable child with diverse interests and skills, finds joy in rugby, soccer, playing PlayStation games, watching YouTube, and excels in drama and the performing arts.

He even did his first voiceover for Junglevites at the age of five.

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