By Motshwari Mo Mofokeng
Pretoria – An ordinary shift at a petrol station transformed into a significant moment for petrol attendant Benson Laka, whose small act of kindness has led to a R25,000 reward — and renewed hope for his family.
Laka was on duty at a BP garage in Pretoria when he saw motorist Tembeka Sonkwele looking upset while refueling her car. After greeting her warmly, he inquired if she had a rewards card that could help her save on fuel and possibly enter a competition.
Sonkwele later shared that she had just lost her job and was feeling overwhelmed that day. When she realized she had forgotten her phone at home, Laka kindly allowed her to return and get it before finishing the transaction.
A few days later, Sonkwele received an unexpected call from Nedbank: her petrol purchase had won her a Mini Cooper in the BP rewards competition.
Moved by Laka’s kindness, she informed the bank about the attendant who had taken the time to assist her. Nedbank rewarded Laka with R20,000, and his employer contributed an additional R5,000 for his children’s education.
For Laka, the reward is more than just money. He mentions that part of it will help him complete the payment of lobola for his wife and support their two children.
