Finding the fun in things we throw away

A fun day at Kewtown Primary School showed what can be made from things we throw away.

The event on Wednesday October 16 was organised by a company that rewards people who recycle, and the staff and residents from four of the hubs where the company runs its operations competed against each other in a fashion show in which they wore clothes made from recycled materials. Kewtown Primary pupils also exhibited the arts and crafts they made using recyclables.

Natasha Mess, the supervisor of the Kewtown hub, said the company’s workers earned a stipend for collecting recycling in the neighbourhood, and the residents also benefited.

“We have six people working at the Kewtown hub. They go to the residents to collect the recyclables. We also give those residents who give these materials a QR code, which they scan for Remali, a virtual currency that they can use to buy goods from spaza shops,” Ms Mess said.

Kewtown Primary teacher Wendy Wildemans said her Grade 4B class had so much fun using recyclables to create something new.

“They thoroughly enjoyed themselves and they are so creative. They really thought out of the box for this. It was also an opportunity to educate them about protecting the environment. For example, we looked at how littering at the beach can cause harm to the sea animals. One of my learners even took on a leadership role, so this project helped them to even expand their skills beyond what was required.”

Ishaam Smith, one of the workers, said the initiative had helped him to provide for his family.

“We help preserve the environment, and we get to put food on the table. Before I started here, it was very difficult to find a job. I used to do odd jobs now and then. I am grateful for this opportunity.”

Another worker, Zainoenesa Petersen, said: “People call it dirt, but I enjoy working with it. My children also like to do recycling with me.”