From 15–19 September 2025, Glencore-funded schools joined the national Clean-up and Recycle SA Campaign Week, a highlight on the environmental calendar that inspires communities to tackle waste and embrace sustainable living.

Four schools proudly took part in this year’s programme: Mabande Secondary School and Thuthukani Primary School in Phola, Ogies, as well as Lehlaka Combined School and Amandla Primary School in the Kriel area. The initiative focused on raising awareness about the impact of waste while encouraging learners to work together on innovative ways to recycle and upcycle.

The week began with eco-committee learners addressing their peers at the assembly, explaining the importance of the campaign and sharing why waste management matters. This was followed by a hands-on clean-up campaign, where learners collected and sorted different types of waste, identifying which items could be recycled or reused.

In a creative twist, learners showcased their innovation by designing clothing, art pieces, and bags from waste materials. These items were proudly displayed around the schools, linking environmental responsibility with creativity and problem-solving. Recyclable materials collected during the week were also added to each school’s recycling project, ensuring the effort continues beyond the campaign.

By combining education, action, and innovation, the campaign empowered learners to see waste differently — not just as a problem, but as an opportunity to make a positive impact in their schools and communities.

This Heritage Month, on 22 and 24 September, WESSA brought the magic of cinema and conservation together, hosting two special screenings of The Last Ranger for 300 children from communities neighbouring Addo Elephant National Park.

“This is an incredible moment for inclusive conservation strategies in South Africa. It links South African youth to the real-life experiences of the conservation of our natural heritage – in this case, our rhinos. I would like to thank the team at Kindred Films who supported us to have these important conversations, using The Last Ranger film as the tool to Educate, Advocate and Act for a collective conservation. To our SANParks colleagues at Addo Elephant National Park, this would not have been possible without your partnership – what a way to kick off SANParks Week,” says Cindy-Lee Cloete, WESSA CEO.

Co-Founder of Kindred Films, Will Hawkes, adds “The most effective way to inspire a mind is by telling a story. The Kindred Films team is honoured to partner with WESSA and SANParks to share The Last Ranger film with students in the Eastern Cape. We hope it will inspire them to believe in the majesty of South African rhinos and to take responsibility for their survival.”

Each event was more than a film screening; it was an immersive experience in conservation. Learners entered the park, enjoyed a meal, and engaged in a dynamic Q&A session with conservation leaders who shared their personal journeys and insights into protecting South Africa’s natural heritage.

SANParks Rhino awareness session – Addo Primary and AV Bukani Primary school learners engaged

The film’s message of courage, community, and hope resonated deeply with the children, sparking conversations about the role of young people in safeguarding our environment. Their feedback reflected the courage and resilience shown in the film. As one learner put it: “My favourite part of the movie was when the woman sacrificed her life for the rhino.” Another added: “When the ranger told the young girl, ‘You are very strong,’ it inspired me not to give up on my dreams.”

Generous support made it all possible

Thanks to the generous support of WESSA’s donors, and strategic partners including South African National Parks (SANParks), the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Kindred Films, Nedbank and the NOA Group – 300 learners could take part in this unforgettable experience.

“Our staff volunteerism programme is purpose-driven, and this partnership with WESSA offered us an opportunity to authentically live that purpose. It aligns directly with our strategic focus on the Green Economy, while also reflecting our deep commitment to youth by unlocking opportunities for the next generation of leaders. As The Last Ranger reminds us, conservation is a deeply human act — a reflection on legacy, responsibility, and the emotional bonds between people and the wild. This experience captured that sentiment perfectly. For these young learners, it wasn’t just about teaching facts; it was about igniting a sense of responsibility, an understanding of legacy, and a love for the natural world that will stay with them for a lifetime,” shares Jehaan Anthony, Head of Staff Volunteerism and Advocacy at Nedbank’s Social Impact Unit.

“NOA, on behalf of our Wind Garden wind farm project, is proud to support The Last Ranger initiative, as part of our commitment to conservation and biodiversity. By sharing this powerful story with local youth, we hope to inspire the next generation to appreciate the importance of protecting our wildlife and to recognise the remarkable dedication of the rangers and veterinarians working on the frontlines of conservation in South Africa,” says Angela Harrison, Socio-Economic Development Manager of NOA Group.

La Trobe Primary school learners completing the National Park Activity booklet

Career pathways in the green economy for young people

“Through these screenings we can introduce young people to potential career pathways in the green economy, including biodiversity conservation, environmental management, waste innovation, as well as sustainable agriculture. WESSA does this by building early awareness of environmental challenges and the role youth can play as well as introducing future-focused skills and knowledge,” adds Kelly Alcock, WESSA’s Head of Education and Sustainability.

Here’s a heartfelt message that WESSA received from Peter Hendricks, the Principal at La Trobe Primary School: “I would like to pour out our gratitude for the opportunity you gave our kids, to see and experience what overseas visitors come and do on our shores. You might not know it, but for many kids that was the best meal they had in many a moon. You might not know it, but for many, that was the closest they’ll get to a Christmas atmosphere. The visit to the field was memorable and exquisite. The lessons were practical and self-exploratory. Thank you for creating lasting, educational memories in our kids, with an authentic appreciation for our unique heritage. WESSA, Eco-Schools and SANParks, take a bow! ” 

WESSA remains committed to creating these life-changing opportunities, opening doors for young people to imagine themselves as future conservation leaders.

If you’d like to support more initiatives like this, click here: https://www.wessa.org.za/donate/

From left to right: Reitberg Primary School painting Rhino artboard; Vusumzi Primary Schoo educators and learners with Rhino artboard; [bottom] AV Bukani Primary School Group photo

[Image top: Kahobotjha-Sakhubusha Secondary School & (bottom) Nkgopoleng Secondary School]

In August 2025, learners from two Free State schools took bold steps toward tackling the global plastic crisis through clean-up campaigns and an innovative design challenge. Nkgopoleng Secondary School and Kahobotjha-Sakhubusha Secondary School partnered with WESSA and UNEP’s Tide Turners Plastic Challenge to explore practical, curriculum-linked solutions for waste management.

From awareness to action

On 20–21 August, clean-up campaigns were hosted at both schools with the aim of raising awareness about the importance of a clean environment while introducing learners to the circular economy concept.

The programmes began with ice-breaker activities and a presentation on plastic waste, followed by hands-on clean-up sessions around the schoolyards. Learners analysed the types of waste collected, discussed sorting at source, and explored how recycling and reuse can be integrated into classroom learning.

These activities not only offered practical applications of waste management but also helped the schools prepare for the UNEP Tide Turners Plastic Challenge design competition. Learners completed their summative assessments and badge activities as part of the campaign wrap-up.

The design challenge showcase

On 28 August 2025, the excitement culminated at the Boitjhorisong Resource Centre in Sasolburg, where both schools showcased their recycling and upcycling projects. Adjudicators assessed entries based on innovation in reducing single-use plastics, sustainability of the approach, product durability, and how well learners connected their projects to classroom contexts.

The Indaloyami Buyback Centre partnered in the initiative, capturing accurate tonnage data of recycled waste to ensure fairness during adjudication.

A fair finish, shared victories

The competition results reflected the strengths of both schools. While one excelled in upcycling and the other in recycling, their overall points balanced out. The final outcome was a tie, with prizes shared equally and outstanding learners recognised for their exceptional contributions.

This fair result underscored the collaborative spirit of the challenge and left both schools motivated to continue innovating in waste management and environmental stewardship.

Enabling young changemakers

The UNEP Tide Turners Plastic Challenge has once again shown how young people can lead by example, combining knowledge with action to address pressing environmental issues. Through hands-on activities, curriculum integration, and creative problem-solving, learners are shaping a future where waste is seen not as an end, but as a resource.

Lufuno Khabane, joined the WESSA team on 11 August 2025, as our new National Membership Coordinator, where he will play a key role in strengthening and growing our member community across South Africa.

With a BSc in Biodiversity and Conservation from the University of Venda and certification as a Nature Guide (NQF 2) from the Field Guide Association of Southern Africa, Lufuno brings both academic grounding and practical expertise. His career has spanned environmental education, wildlife research, and community engagement, including roles as a Research Technician (Rhino Monitor), Environmental Officer, and Field Guide. These experiences have sharpened his skills in data collection and analysis, public speaking, stakeholder collaboration, and sustainable development.

Lufuno shares that his commitment to environmental stewardship was inspired by firsthand encounters with South Africa’s unique ecosystems and his desire to enable youth and communities to protect their natural heritage. He sees WESSA’s mission — to educate, advocate, and act for environmental and social justice, climate action, biodiversity protection, and pollution reduction in Southern Africa — as perfectly aligned with his own values of conservation, education, and inclusivity.

Beyond his professional experience, Lufuno has been actively involved in leadership roles within UNESCO’s South African MaB Youth Network and various Biosphere Reserves. Through these platforms, he has honed his ability to engage diverse audiences, coordinate youth programmes, and drive impactful environmental initiatives—skills he is eager to apply in expanding WESSA’s membership and community outreach.

Looking ahead, Lufuno’s goal for his first year is to expand youth participation and membership in conservation programmes by developing innovative educational initiatives that connect young people with nature. “I believe empowering the next generation is vital to securing our environmental future and amplifying WESSA’s impact nationally,” he explains.

To young professionals aspiring to build a green career, Lufuno offers this advice:

“Stay curious, patient and resilient. Environmental work is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Remember the words of Baba Dioum: ‘In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we are taught.’ Never stop learning and inspiring others.”

We are excited to have Lufuno join the WESSA team and look forward to the passion and fresh perspective he will bring to our work.

August was a month of collaboration, coastal stewardship, and community action for the WESSA Coastal Programme. From national biodiversity planning forums to on-the-ground youth awareness campaigns, our work continues to link people and nature in meaningful ways.  Shore to shore, our work is powered by The Ford Wildlife Foundation.

Amplifying coastal conservation voices

This month, our Coastal programme has contributed to the Addo-Amathole Biodiversity Node Forum and the Marine and Coastal National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan. These platforms are critical for ensuring that community perspectives are included in wider biodiversity conservation planning. By amplifying local voices, we aim to build stronger stewardship at community level while enhancing collaboration at national level for resilient coastal ecosystems.

Green Coast communities taking the lead

Across South Africa, Green Coast communities are stepping up as custodians of their local environments. Guided by the programme’s three pillars—awareness raising, active participation, and monitoring—sites have hosted beach clean-ups, coastal health checks, and awareness events.

Communities are also rallying behind the national Stop the Strangle campaign, taking action against ghost gear and marine pollution from the fishing sector. These efforts highlight the essential role of coastal communities in protecting South Africa’s biodiversity and natural heritage.

Meanwhile, the WESSA team has been supporting new Green Coast sites with their 2025/2026 applications and working closely with already awarded sites as they prepare for re-application.

Blue Flag safe and sustainable beaches

Even in winter, the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is alive with activity. Following the spectacular Sardine Run, beachgoers have continued to flock to South Africa’s world-class Blue Flag beaches, a reminder that our coastline is a year-round treasure.

During site visits, the WESSA team experienced the beauty of these beaches and met the lifeguards who keep them safe. Far more than watchful eyes, lifeguards are highly trained professionals who prevent accidents, respond to emergencies, and ensure that families and ocean lovers alike can enjoy the coast with confidence. Their dedication is central to what makes a Blue Flag beach both environmentally exceptional and welcoming.

So, next time you enjoy a Blue Flag beach, take a moment to thank the lifeguards, the quiet guardians of our coastline.

Youth awareness and protection

In August, the Coastal Programmes team partnered with WESSA’s Schools and Youth team, ChildSafe, and other stakeholders to host a youth awareness and gender-based violence (GBV) prevention event.

The initiative responded to the worrying rise in abuse cases linked to institutions of trust, such as churches, where many young people are left without knowledge of where or how to report abuse. The event raised critical awareness around protection, prevention, and support services, while also reminding participants of the deep connection between caring for one another and caring for our environment. Just as nature provides healing and solace, it requires our protection in return.

Intern reflections, building skills for the future

Our interns also had the opportunity to deepen their skills this month through work readiness training, and their reflections highlight the value of pairing technical knowledge with professional growth:

Nokwazi Zulu, Coastal Environmental Management Intern:

“The work readiness training improved my professionalism, punctuality, accountability, and attitude—skills I apply daily as a Coastal Environmental Management Intern when engaging with colleagues, municipalities, and communities during Blue Flag inspections and awareness initiatives.

It also equipped me with practical tools for conflict management, problem-solving, and adapting to challenges, helping me stay calm and solution-focused in complex situations. In addition, the training strengthened my communication and teamwork abilities, allowing me to adjust my style for different audiences. Overall, it gave me valuable workplace skills that complement my technical knowledge in coastal management.”

Sisikelelwe Zamajama Ngceza, Coastal Environmental Management Intern:

“The SAWEA Work Readiness Training Programme has helped me a great deal with my professional growth as well as my personal. It has equipped me with much-needed skills in the workplace including proper communication, teamwork, time management and problem solving, all skills that I believe every intern should begin with. I also came to learn a great deal about the workplace culture, professional etiquette, and expectations of the employers. Not only is the programme going to help me boost my confidence when interacting with colleagues and supervisors as a Coastal Environmental Management intern, but it will also help me become more flexible to work in various working conditions. 

Overall, the training gave me more confidence in my role, which will help me work more efficiently and effectively.”

Their experiences remind us that investing in the next generation of environmental leaders is as important as the conservation work itself.

Together, these efforts—by communities, lifeguards, partners, and interns—showcase the heart of WESSA’s Coastal Programme: enabling people to protect and celebrate our coasts for generations to come.

[Images left: Trashion Show First Place Winner at Diepsloot West Secondary School; (top right) Students learning about the importance of biodiversity at Interwaste; (bottom right) Itirele Zenzele Comprehensive School participating in the waste excursions at the Interwaste facilities in Germiston, Gauteng]

August was a month of creativity, learning, and impact as learners took centre stage in celebrating both Women’s Day and National Water Week through the eWASA & WESSA SA Schools Waste Management and Recycling Project.

Turning waste into wearable art

Two Trashion Shows brought classrooms to life at Diepsloot West Secondary School (8 August, themed around Women’s Month) and Masisebenze High School (22 August, themed for World Water Week). These unique events gave learners the chance to transform waste into bold, wearable art while sparking important conversations about consumer culture, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.

The creativity and confidence on display were inspiring, young people proudly showcased their designs while leading their peers and communities in rethinking waste and its potential.

Pictured: Runner Up, Trashion Show at Diepsloot West Secondary. (middle and right) Innovative designs created by learners at Dieplsoot West Secondary School)

Learning beyond the classroom

Education extended beyond the runway with excursions to the Interwaste facilities on 19–20 August, where learners experienced the full journey of waste. From sorting and recycling to exploring waste-to-energy processes, these excursions offered a first-hand look at how everyday waste can be repurposed into new materials or even transformed into energy. For many learners, seeing waste in this new light was a true eye-opener.

Pictured: Students from eWASA Eco-Schools learning about the waste management and recycling process at Interwaste (bottom left) Students learning about waste to energy processes at Interwaste (bottom right) Diepsloot Secondary at the Interwaste Facilities]

Collaboration and support

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the eWASA team for their ongoing support of the Trashion Shows, and to Interwaste for opening their doors to learners and creating such engaging, educational experiences.

Together, these initiatives are not only empowering the next generation of environmental stewards but also showing how creative education can drive meaningful change in our communities.

Pictured: The eWASA team celebrating a successful Trashion show with the winners at Diepsloot West Secondary School]