“We Made It Happen”: Good Samaritan Helps Learner Begging for Matric Dance Funds

• After a Johannesburg Grade 12 learner begged for financial assistance for his matric dance, a local man, Kgotso Phukubye, generously helped him out
• Kgotso and the matriculant went to a fashion retail store and the barber to get the youngster matric dance-ready
• Thousands of internet users loved Kgotso's act of kindness and expressed positivity in the comment section
• Briefly News contacted Kgotso, who shared more information about his involvement in the matric dance preparations

A software developer and marketer named Kgotso Phukubye opened his heart and wallet after seeing a Johannesburg matric learner begging on the side of the road for donations for his matric dance. Kgotso's kind act pulled at the heartstrings of many online audience members.

On 5 October, 2025, the Good Samaritan uploaded a video to his TikTok account showing how he helped the young man on 3 October, 2025, to prepare for the special event, which took place on 4 October, 2025. In the clip, he first shared a meal with his friends and the matriculant before heading to Markham to buy his outfit. They then headed to the barber, where both Kgotso and the matriculant got a haircut.

Read also

"Ishmael has a story": Woman captures gogo choked up after seeing graduate grandchild

He told the public:

"In God's hands, we made it happen."

While speaking to Briefly News, Kgotso shared that besides getting the boy clothes and a haircut, he also provided him with funds to buy himself groceries. He also covered the cost of his matric fees.

"I wanted to make sure he felt supported and celebrated on that special occasion."

When asked why it was important for him to step in and help, the software developer said that he believes every child deserves access to education and the opportunity to celebrate milestones such as a matric ball.

He also added:

"It was a small act of kindness that could make a big difference in his life, and I'm glad I could step in to help."

Mzansi appreciates man helping matriculant

After receiving over 3.4 million views and counting since its publication, thousands of social media commentators gathered in the comment section to applaud Kgotso. Other internet users stated that they were emotional and appreciated that humanity still existed in the world.

Read also

"Ate and left no crumbs": Flashy matric dance entrance gives Zulu men vibes, leaves Mzansi talking

@da_mlu18 wrote in the comment section:

"I know some people would say, 'Why cameras?' Well, such moments need to be shown to bring positivity and inspiration to help one another because we see so much negativity on our socials."

@penny63639 told the online community:

"I can't wait to have money so that I can help people. Yoh, may this dream come true! This is so lovely."

@portialetsholo6 praised the matriculant, writing:

"The fact that he was not ashamed to stand on the road with that board shows that when he wants something, he doesn't care about what people will say. Big up, bro, well done. Let your helper's pockets never run dry."

@penzivilian shared under the post:

"We used to say the internet is an evil place, but after all, it's heaven for some. I've seen many people getting help from strangers on social media. May this spirit continue. May we continue to help each other, and may God bless those who extend their hands. May your pockets overflow. This is beautiful to witness."

Read also

"Expensive entrance": Pupil goes to matric dance in R1.7m farm tractor, community goes wild

@simababe1 said to both parties involved:

"I am so touched. It is heartwarming to see such great work. Wishing the donor more blessings and the recipient strength to proceed with the spirit of success, even through hardships. Blessings to you."

@nonkululekoglenda55 added in the comments:

"South Africa is one big family. Yes, we fight like all siblings do, but we are always there for each other."

Take a look at the TikTok video here.

3 Other stories about matric dances

• In another article, Briefly News reported that a Grade 12 learner shared a breakdown of her matric ball's expenses after spending R21 000. The video sparked conversations about financial pressures surrounding the event.
• A Western Cape matric dance attendee arrived in a luxury supercar worth over R5 million. While some people praised the entrance, others criticised that the video focused more on the expensive vehicle than on the young woman.
• A Johannesburg matriculant shared the devastating moment she realised she would miss her matric dance after her dress arrived after 9pm. She received an overwhelming amount of support from online users.

Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.

Source: Briefly News