New trees for Leeuwkop Prison thanks to a Miss Earth South Africa semi-finalist
JOBURG – Miss Earth SA regional semi-finalist interacted with prisoners at Leeuwkop Prison while planting trees.
A regional semi-finalist in the Miss Earth South Africa pageant, Nurayn Ismail, took the opportunity to plant trees at the Leeuwkop Prison on 21 June.
Ismail said that as part of Miss Earth SA there are compulsory activities such as tree-planting and community clean-ups which help to create an awareness of sustainable development, the environment, wildlife and the conservation of South Africa.
As a student teacher from Houghton, she said these activities usually take place at a school, however, she decided to focus on a prison. She hoped to allow the prisoners an opportunity to feel part of society and a chance to prove their capabilities by giving back to the environment.
The trees, which were sponsored by The Garden Shop in Parktown, were planted by Ismail, prisoners and officers.
“Initially I was nervous that the offenders might be sceptical to want to interact with me and share their stories, however, after engaging with them I learnt that we all make mistakes and them being in prison, they already do realize what they’ve done,” said Ismail.
Ismail hopes to engage in numerous other projects in the future, including the Waste Stops With Me programme, community clean-ups, the Leeuwkop Project and her own initiative called Swop Shop.
“The Swop Shop campaign basically involves learners bringing waste materials such as plastic and tin, and, in return, they gain tokens, which are redeemed for stationery or household goods dependent on where the school is situated.”
Ismail added that while the project has been successful in Mpumalanga she is currently looking for a sponsor.
“Educating our youth about waste management and recycling promotes a green future for us all as we should always remember that the youth are our future and it is essential to shape and encourage them towards the right path.”
READ: Miss Earth finalists hold clean-ups around the country
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