Viral video of tax driver helping an elderly man cross the road in Cape Town. Picture: Screenshot/@hookngrill
We all know taxi drivers in South Africa often get a bad rep, whether for some of their creative interpretation of road rules or their sometimes questionable driving skills.
Cape Town’s infamous winds made a grand entrance recently, the kind that could sweep you off your feet like you’re starring in a dramatic music video.
According to historical weather data, wind speeds reached up to 50 km/h (31 mph) in certain areas of Cape Town. These gusty conditions were characteristic of the city's summer months, often influenced by the Cape Doctor, a southeasterly wind known for its intensity.
As locals endured the “Cape Doctor”, one moment stood out and has since gone viral - a taxi driver stepping up in the best way possible.
Nathan Ashraf, a Cape Town taxi driver, was caught on camera helping an elderly man cross the street in the middle of the extreme winds.
Seeing the elderly man struggle against the force of nature, Ashraf parked his taxi, got out, and made sure the gentleman crossed safely.
The heart-warming clip was first shared on TikTok by Hook & Grill, a page usually dedicated to sustainable fishing, proving that sometimes social media surprises us for the better.
"I recorded this video not knowing I would capture such a great act of kindness … The driver is Nathan Ashraf," the page later posted on Facebook.
Thousands of South Africans flooded the comments, praising Ashraf for his kindness.
@hookngrill #fyp #fypシ #fypシ゚viral #hookngrill #capetown #southafrica ♬ original sound - Hook&Grill
The following comments also brought to light that not all taxi drivers deserve the scrutiny or negative stereotypes directed at them. Some viewers shared their own experiences of kindness from one.
TikTok user @Shicayla_Miems commented: “The fact that he left his door open in that wind and ran for the old guy speaks volumes 😇 Well done.”
@leesatshabalala wrote: “I remember struggling to drive up a steep hill and a taxi driver pulled over and helped me. He didn’t even do it for me—he gave me assurance that I got this and he’s got my back. ❤️.”
@Peculiar Tie also added: “If we’re honest with ourselves as Capetonians, the vast majority of taxi drivers are good people but I wonder why we are conditioned to hate them so much and who benefits from this hate.”
While @Bongi_72 wrote: “Clearly shows that no one is born with hate, it is a learned behavior Ubuntu still exist🤗 Kudos bhuti, may God bless you for helping an old man💯🙏♥️.”