Whether certain demographics of South Africans celebrate Christmas or not, the period around 25 December is often a time for fun and festivities for friends and families.
It’s also an outstanding opportunity to look beyond oneself and to the needs of others. The notion of giving to those who have less during a period when excess and over expenditure can be the norm is important to hang onto. Thankfully, this spirit of generosity has played out throughout the country again and again, especially among lottery winners.
“We notice that this year, a lot of our winners are really more about giving and appreciating the gift of life, and this is inspired by the unparalleled holiday season that we are having this year. It is something that we have never experienced before,” said lottery representative Charmaine Mabuza in late 2020.
For a humble Mzansi mother of four from Soweto, who won over R100 million rand after checking the SA Powerball results in early 2020, the festive period presented a rare chance to give of her time and resources to her family.
“Having worked as a cleaner at some of the busiest shopping malls in Johannesburg for years now, the festive season was the busiest and most exhausting time for me. I have never had the opportunity to enjoy the holiday season with my family. This year, my big plan for Christmas is to just relax in my new beautiful home with my loved ones. That to me is a dream come true,” she enthused recently.
Then, a South African dad – who fetched more than R80 million in November 2020 – lived out the ideals of being charitable. He ensured enough balance between selflessness and some focus on himself, though.
“I have been distributing food parcels to distressed families in the disadvantaged areas of Cape Town,” he said.
“I am excited though, as I have now moved into my new house, just last week – a beautiful, spacious five-bedroom house where I know lots of good memories will live.”
Even less sizeable numbers than the R100-plus million-plus or the R80-odd million relished by the aforementioned winners have proven enough to give away in part. Take, for instance, the winner of R53 million in November 2020.
“My wife and I will use a portion of our winnings to gift our close family and friends so that they may also enjoy some financial relief,” he said.
The festive season can be quite a busy period, so it’s highly important that those who enter lotteries – whenever and from wherever – remember to check their numbers during or after the draw. From Port Elizabeth and East London to Johannesburg and Pretoria, there have been a few examples where entrants have belatedly – or not at all – claimed their prizes for reasons vast and varied.
“Check. Your. Ticket. Imagine what winning one of these amazing prizes would mean. Any one of them would certainly be one unforgettable late Christmas present.” – now there’s an anonymous quote that warrants heeding.
