In our weekly good news round-up, we feature three positive stories from across the week that showcase remarkable innovation, breakthroughs, and progress within the realms of healthcare, sustainability, equity and inclusion, workplace wellbeing, social impact and more.

Here are our favourite positive stories of the week,  11 to 17 November, 2024.

World’s largest coral found in the Pacific

Scientists have discovered the world’s largest single coral in the Pacific Ocean’s Solomon Islands. Over 100 feet long and 300 years old, the colossal coral is visible from space and far surpasses the size of the previous record-holder. Spotted during a National Geographic Pristine Seas expedition, it consists of nearly a billion living polyps and resembles a cathedral-sized rock.

The coral provides vital shelter to marine species such as fish, crabs, and shrimp. Marine biologist Manu San Félix likened it to a “living encyclopedia,” preserving centuries of oceanic data within its structure.

This discovery highlights the ocean’s hidden biodiversity and offers a remarkable reminder of the natural world’s wonders.

IMAGE CREDIT: Manu San Félix, National Geographic Pristine Seas

Read more of the story here.

New programme helps athletes launch new careers in tech

A new programme has launched to help athletes smoothly transition from sports into careers in the fast-growing data centre industry. The initiative, developed through a partnership between BCS, a specialist in digital infrastructure services, and JLB Search, a global recruitment firm in sports and entertainment, is spearheaded by ex-England rugby player and international referee Holly Wood.

A new scheme has been spearheaded by ex-England rugby player turned international referee Holly Wood (pictured).

The programme aims to equip athletes with the resources, guidance, and skills needed to succeed in roles within this evolving sector. It offers personalised support, skills mapping, and career development for athletes at the end of their sports careers, addressing the tech skills shortage.

Jim Hart, CEO at BCS said: “This unique programme reflects our lateral thinking and determination to find the next generation of senior managers for our fast-growing sector.

“It has really opened our eyes to this untapped pool of incredible talent which we believe has a unique skillset which enables them to thrive in business settings, such as teamwork, leadership, adaptability, resilience and discipline.”

 

Young sisters join Children in Need Choir despite health challenges

For the first time, the BBC Children in Need Choir will unite young voices from across the UK, including Gloucestershire and Worcestershire, to sing Take That’s Never Forget. Among the talented group are three sisters from Evesham — Lucy, Chloe, and Alice — who’ve shown incredible resilience despite facing serious heart conditions.

Their journey has been supported by Gloucester charity Heart Heroes and the I CAN project, funded by BBC Children in Need. Thanks to the charity, the girls have found joy and confidence, bonding with others while navigating their health challenges. These initiatives allow young people to explore performing arts, drumming, and creativity, helping them thrive beyond hospital life.

IMAGE CREDIT: Heart Heroes Instagram @heroes.heart

The inspiring performance has been led by renowned vocal coach Mark De Lisser, and showcases the power of music and determination.

Read more of the story here.