Maryke and Nesta’s Friendship Is Still Winning the Internet
Good Things Guy | 20.02.2026 13:00
From a chance jog in a work uniform to 10km Races. This is how Maryke and Nesta’s unexpected friendship has captured hearts across social media.
Mpumalanga, South Africa (20 February 2026) – If you’re on social media, chances are you’ve come across that duo. The unexpected friendship that started with a jog and turned into one of the most heartwarming timelines on social media.
Yes, we’re talking about ‘Hello My Friend’ founder and content creator Maryke Nel and her famous running partner, Nesta.
The latest update says it all: “body keeps on bodying.” That’s how Maryke captioned her recent transformation video, and she’s not wrong.
Maryke says her life changed the day she met Nesta, a domestic worker in a household in her neighbourhood. One day, while Maryke was out on a run, Nesta (still in her work uniform) spotted her and decided to join in for a little jog.
Just like that, a friendship was born.
What started as a spontaneous run has now grown into a full-blown running journey, documented for the rest of us to see.
One year and eight months later
“All these memories make my heart so happy. It’s been 1yr8ms since Nesta and I have become friends and it has been amazing seeing her blossom and transition into the strong woman she is today so inspiring!”
From those early jogs to now confidently running 10km races, the growth has been undeniable. Chances are you have even bumped into them at races like the Spar Women Challenge. We’ve watched the transformation in real time. The running outfits upgraded. The race entries increased.
The medals? Secured. Even a moment with South African superfan Mama Joy made it onto their highlight reel.
Maryke has consistently shared their journey online, and viewers have been inspired. Many have taken up running themselves, motivated by the authenticity and joy the pair radiate.
It’s also beautiful to see how they have also involved themselves in each others lives. It turns out the best part of the journey was never just the running.
