Young innovators showcase recycled fashion at World Environment Month event
From left: Nicole Nel and Samura Mudimula from Elswood High School were part of the learners who participated in the trashion shown.
Image: Supplied.
Thirteen pupils from Riverton Primary School in Bishop Lavis, Elswood High School in Elsies River and Bellville South High School showcased fashion pieces made from recycled materials during an event held on Thursday, 26 June.
The learners, all members of an Eco-Club, received support from GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World and the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA), who have sponsored the initiative for the past three years.
Each pupil presented designs to demonstrate how everyday waste can be reused instead of being discarded in landfills. The event took place at Riverton Primary and carried the theme #BeatPlasticPollution, marking World Environment Month 2025.
Nomfundo Ndlovu, WESSA's project manager, said, “Through our educational initiatives, we endeavour to motivate the forthcoming generation to champion and contribute to a healthy planet they can be proud of.”
The partnership between GrandWest and WESSA is managed nationally through WESSA and Sun International. GrandWest also provided refreshments and promotional items for participants.
Mervyn Naidoo, general manager of GrandWest, said, “These learners have distinguished themselves. Their creativity has highlighted the thoughtless manner in which society discards waste. It is imperative that every individual acquires recycling skills.”
WESSA, established in 1926, is a South African environmental non-governmental organisation focused on education and conservation through various programmes.
Learners from Riverton Primary School, Elswood, and Bellville South High Schools were met with applause as they showcased fashion clothing items crafted from recycled materials.
Image: Supplied