Community clean-up initiative now creates jobs

Clad in green and white, volunteers and members of Clean Projects have become a familiar sight along major roads and intersections across the city.

For the past seven months, this NPC has collected litter, painted curbs, cleared gullies and cleaned stormwater drains, all in the name of reclaiming Benoni and making it beautiful.

Founder Jonathan Etherington of Ebotse initially only had his sights set on the intersection of Pretoria Road and Fifth Avenue.

Armed with a vision of cleaning, clearing and rejuvenating the area, 50 volunteers descended on the intersection, tending to the general maintenance and creating a welcoming water-wise mound.

Since then, the organisation has gained tremendous momentum, with residents and local businesses contributing to its success.

“As our work rapidly spread to other areas, we have garnered overwhelming support,” said Alison Etherington.

“We could acquire equipment and other essential tools to assist in the projects, and through a partnership with Youth Employment Services (YES), have created employment for two men from Emandleni.

“These hardworking individuals continued to maintain areas where we have conducted mass clean-ups and prep areas earmarked for community involvement days.”

Ridding the gullies of overgrowth on Webb Street, Mthoko Dladla said working for Clean Projects has changed his life while improving the lives of his family.

“I used to sit on these overgrown sidewalks every day, hoping that someone would need my services as a builder. Some days were more successful and others,” said Dladla.

“Then I got this opportunity. I am proud of what we are doing. Where ever you see the Clean Projects boards, be sure the area will stay neat and clean because we work here every week.”

As an unemployed roofer, Mxolisis Hlabisa smiles as he sweeps the street to prepare for volunteers to paint the curbs.

He points to the Clean Projects logo on his reflective vest with pride, saying their work is changing the world.

“I enjoy coming to work because people honk their horns and wave. We are making our city beautiful again,” said Hlabisa.

“On the plus side, I can put food on the table.”

Working as a volunteer, Big Boy Sikhosana of Msholozi informal settlement near Apex says he is rendering his services hoping to gain employment, but his main goal is to teach his children a valuable lesson.

“Our time is free, but when we work together, we can achieve great things,” said Sikhosana.

“I want my children to see that every person’s effort can add value to the lives of many. All you need is strong leadership and will.”

According to Etherington, the organisation hopes to establish a second permanent team to assist with the continuation of their projects.

“We have proven it can be done and the results speak for themselves. However, we need continued financial support to drive the project to greater heights,” she said.

“As a community, we have reclaimed parts of our city.”

For more information or to become part of Clean Projects, contact Alison on 083 497 0610 or follow them on Facebook.

ALSO READ: Community adopt ‘forgotten’ intersection

ALSO READ: Metro is responsible for upkeeping public spaces but…