Plastic bottles get a second chance
The Burlington resident says uses for her containers are endless.
IN the efforts of making an extra income as well as recycling, Theodore Mxhakaza, makes multi-purpose containers using recycled plastic bottles. Originally from Matatiele in the Eastern Cape, the Burlington resident said the uses for her containers are endless. “You can put your money, jewellery, pens, colouring pencils, just about anything in them. They are great for keeping things grouped together which makes it a lot easier to find,” she explained.
Mxhakaza started making the recycled containers in 2009 along with four other women in her place of residence. “I used to work with four other women who are also from Burlington They have since gone on to pursue other things but I still continue making the containers. Making them especially for overseas clients,” she said. The containers cost as little as R8 each and vary from animal and flower prints.
A domestic worker by day, Mxhakaza was introduced to this art by her employer, Hannie Mitchell, who said she is proud of her ability to recycle while making money. “I taught Theodora this skill for her to be able to put food on the table. I have taught many others and I am proud that hers is a success story because she took it further and now has overseas contact. I think if every person in the country could help teach a skill to someone and help uplift them, South Africa would be far better,” said Mitchell.
