Pridwin Preparatory School learner James Hefer (10) has quickly risen to fame after a video of him helping an informal recycler in Parktown North went viral.
James said he and his mom Dale were driving home from a soccer match on 27 July when he spotted a man pushing a heavy load of recycling up a hill.
“My mom asked me if I wanted to help the man and I got out the car and helped him push it up the hill. I just felt like he needed a hand. The trolley was very heavy,” said James.
When Dale posted a video of James’ small act of kindness online, the video soon went viral.
“Lots of people have been congratulating me. I never expected this kind of reaction,” said James.
“My mom taught me to always help people and I think it’s important because they need the help more than we do.”
Dale said she felt proud but not overly surprised at her son’s willingness to help.
Sadly, Dale and James did not get the name of the recycler and have since regretted not asking him.
Dale said, “I had no idea that this little random act of kindness would explode like this. James and I do feel bad because he [James] is getting all the attention while the recycler could really do with some help. I keep an eye out for him every day now.”
Dale added that she has always taught her children to care for vulnerable people in society. “My children are so privileged compared to the vast majority and I think it is critical that they learn perspective and gratitude. I am constantly drumming this into them and insisting that they help wherever they can.”
Pridwin Prep marketing manager Demi-Rae le Roux said, “We are so proud of James. This is the definition of who our Pridwin Boys are. This is the way that we nurture and grow our boys to be. This is a feather in our cap.”
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