Self-proclaimed “agent of chaos” Sandile Mkhize insisted that the staff at Nomad Restaurant in Monte Casino, Johannesburg, carry him up three flights of stairs so that he could enjoy the upper seating in the restaurant. The upper seating was booked for an event he attended, and he gave the restaurant no forewarning – simply demanding to be accommodated.
In his TikTok video, we see five male staff members happily carry Sandile safely up the staircase – speaking to the staff’s willingness to assist despite the business failing to make the restaurant fully accessible. Sandile has dubbed this small fight for access his “new hobby” with the promise of visiting more placed following tremendous encouragement from viewers.
Thousands have seen the video and are asking for more of these small acts of activism. For many it was encouraging to see someone demand equal access, while for others it was an educational moment.
One comment read: “This video has deeply touched me. It raises awareness about how easy it is to be unaware of other’s struggles, especially in places like restaurants, and how we often take many things for granted. I hope it inspires many people to make a positive difference in the lives of others.”
While the comments were mostly positive, there were some who felt differently. One comment read: “Must stay home”. Sandile handled it expertly by responding with: “You may be okay with living half a life but not me.”
With helpful staff and a great time at Nomad, Sandile has noted that he will definitely be returning – hopefully to a more accessible space. We look forward to see what he does next!
@hellosandile
New hobby: visiting ‘public’ places that aren’t wheelchair accessible and asking extremely polite, extremely inconvenient questions. Agent of chaos 🤝🏾 accessibility. #fyp #southafrica #RedBullNoExcuses
