On 2 December 2025, WESSA wrapped up the year in the most heart-warming way with a joyful Eco-Christmas celebration at Zizameleni Itekeleng Pre-School. From laughter and learning to meaningful upgrades that will last well beyond the festive season, it was truly a magical day for the children, and everyone involved.

In partnership with Wispeco Aluminium, we transformed the school into a brighter, safer, and more welcoming space, reinforcing the belief that clean, cared-for environments help young learners thrive.

Creating a safe, happy learning space

Together, we rolled up our sleeves to make tangible improvements to the school environment. These refurbishments were designed not only to uplift the space, but to support the health, safety, and wellbeing of every child.

Key improvements included:

• A colourful and cosy reading corner, designed to spark imagination and encourage a love for books and early literacy
• Repairs and fresh paint to the outside wall, creating a more welcoming school environment
• Toilet repairs and roof maintenance, ensuring safer, cleaner and healthier facilities for learners and staff

The transformation was immediate, and the smiles said it all.

Pictured above: Outside wall before and after.

Pictured above: Roof repairs before and after.

Learning through play

The celebration also placed environmental learning at the centre of the day, with children rotating through two fun and interactive eco-learning stations.

At the Recycling Challenge, learners:

• Collected litter around the school grounds
• Identified different types of waste
• Sorted items into the correct recycling bins, learning why proper waste separation matters

In the Animal Rescue Zone, children:

• Selected an animal figurine
• Shared what each animal needs to stay healthy and safe
• Placed animals in the correct habitats while learning how pollution and environmental damage affect living creatures

Through play, curiosity and conversation, learners were introduced to important environmental concepts in an age-appropriate and memorable way.

Festive joy with a green twist

The festive cheer continued as each child received eco-friendly gifts, including seed kits and green stationery, small items with a powerful message about caring for the environment. Every learner also took home a Christmas gift bucket, spreading joy well beyond the school gates and into the holiday season.

Thank you for making it possible

A heartfelt thank you to Wispeco Aluminium for partnering with WESSA on this impactful initiative, and to everyone who contributed their time, energy, and care to make the day so special.

As we closed off the year, this celebration served as a beautiful reminder that when communities come together, we can create environments where children feel safe, inspired, and excited to learn, today and into the future.

On 11 December 2025, WESSA hosted an impactful youth-led community clean-up, bringing together partners, youth leaders, and local stakeholders in a powerful show of collective action. The clean-up targeted a known dumping hotspot behind Khayelitsha Stadium and Joe Slovo Engineering High School, transforming the space through teamwork, commitment, and shared purpose.

Working alongside Hotlane Organisation, the City of Cape Town’s Urban Waste Management team, Plastics SA, and an energetic group of 74 youth members from Lulwazi Lwethu, the initiative demonstrated what is possible when young people are enabled to lead environmental action within their own communities.

Tangible impact through collaboration

Through coordinated effort and dedication, the team collected 90 bags of waste, weighing a total of 220.66 kg. Importantly, waste was separated at source, ensuring responsible disposal and maximum recycling impact. Of the total collected, approximately 125.61 kg of recyclable material was successfully diverted from landfill and recycled.

These results highlight the value of education, collaboration, and proper waste management practices, turning a dumping hotspot into a symbol of positive environmental action.

Reinvesting into the Lulwazi Lwethu youth group

While the environmental impact was significant, the deeper value of the clean-up lay in youth activation and empowerment. The initiative brought young people together around a shared goal, strengthening their sense of ownership and responsibility for their local environment.

The recycling proceeds generated from the clean-up were reinvested into the Lulwazi Lwethu youth group, directly supporting their ongoing activities and reinforcing the link between environmental stewardship and tangible community benefit. This practical outcome demonstrated how environmental action can also create opportunity and sustainability for youth-led initiatives.

This clean-up marks the first of many planned collaborations with the Lulwazi Lwethu youth, a group deeply committed to improving their community and protecting the environment. By supporting and partnering with passionate youth, WESSA continues to strengthen pathways for young people to become active environmental leaders and changemakers.

WESSA extends heartfelt thanks to all partners and volunteers who contributed their time, energy, and passion to make this initiative a success.

Together, we are proving that when youth rise, communities rise with them.

Hands-on Wildlife, Conservation & Eco-Tourism Learning Experiences

WESSA, in partnership with Waynz World of Edu-Eco Learning-by-Design, is proud to offer an immersive conservation career activation programme designed to equip aspiring environmental professionals with real-world field experience.

Led by renowned Edupreneur and FGASA Professional Trails Guide, Wayne Johnson, this programme blends adventure, applied science, and career-focused development to support the next generation of conservation leaders.

A transformational learning journey

This experiential programme is designed for curious minds, students in natural sciences, and anyone passionate about understanding Africa’s ecosystems. Through hands-on, field-based activities, participants will gain practical skills and direct exposure to both terrestrial and marine environments.

The programme offers:

• Practical, field-based training across Africa’s diverse ecosystems
• A blend of adventure, citizen science, and real research
• Career-oriented awareness and development opportunities

Whether you’re pursuing a career in environmental sciences or simply seeking meaningful insight into conservation, this programme offers an invaluable stepping stone.

Who should join? This programme is ideal for:

• Students studying biological, ecological, or environmental sciences
• Nature enthusiasts seeking in-depth understanding and practical experience
• Future conservationists exploring career pathways across wildlife, ecology, education, and eco-tourism

Participants will leave equipped with new skills, real field experience, and a deeper understanding of the natural world, enabling them to take the next step in their conservation journey.

Programme details:

Marine Experience

• Venue: WESSA’s Twinstreams Centre
• Dates: 05 to 16 January 2026

Dive into marine ecology, coastal conservation, and citizen science projects that bring ocean learning to life.

Cost: R12,500 per person

Includes accommodation, meals, full programme access, all training content, and personalised career activation support.

Book today!

Spaces are limited to ensure an immersive and high-quality learning experience.

Contact Kristi Garland, WESSA Education Centres Manager –   kristi.garland@wessa.co.za, or reach out to Programme Lead, Wayne Johnson –  info@waynzworld.com

This World Volunteer Day, WESSA CEO Cindy-Lee Cloete shares a heartfelt message honouring the incredible individuals who give their time, passion, and energy to protect the environment we all share.

Our volunteers are the lifeblood of WESSA.
They educate.
They advocate.
They act.
And they inspire all of us to do better.

This video launches our new movement: #WeAreAllWESSA, a call to every South African to take action, no matter how small. Volunteer at your local branch, join an event, support a programme, or simply show up for your environment.
Together we educate, we advocate, and we act — because we are all WESSA.

Join the movement:
• Become a WESSA volunteer
• Connect with your local branch
• Follow us on social media
• Share this video to inspire others