In celebration of World Environment Day, the Miss Earth South Africa programme made significant strides in community engagement with a hands-on tree planting and vegetable garden project at Zodiac Primary School in Lenasia.

This vibrant initiative not only aimed to enhance the school environment but also sought to instil a sense of environmental responsibility among the Grade 3 learners, planting the seeds of sustainability in the hearts of the youth.

Transforming a once-barren corner of the school grounds, the project flourished into a lush and educational space. With the collaborative efforts of partners such as Cathay Pacific, Skin Renewal SA, Samsonite, 9Five Fertilizers, Wild Route, 3Sixty Compost, and the Toyota Knights, the children engaged in a meaningful greening activity that left a tangible impact on their surroundings.

According to Ella Bella Leite, Director of the Miss Earth South Africa Leadership and Empowerment Programme, “Our goal is to plant more than just trees and vegetables; we’re planting seeds of hope, knowledge, and responsibility. Together with our partners, we’re showing learners what it means to care for the earth and for each other. It’s about People and Planet. This garden is an example of how environmental action and social impact go together, reminding us of all that by investing in the youth and their home, we are able to nurture a better future for everyone.”

The vegetable garden, a focal point of this initiative, will be integrated into the school’s feeding scheme, providing nutritious meals and reinforcing the institution’s role as a nurturing environment for students. In tackling food insecurity within the community, each planted seed is a step towards a healthier, more self-sufficient future.

The event buzzed with energy and enthusiasm as learners eagerly participated alongside volunteers and representatives from partner organisations. Equipped with tools and guided by their mentors, the children embraced the learning experience, acquiring practical skills that would serve them well into adulthood. The hands-on experience allowed them not just to contribute to a greener school but also to connect deeply with the cycles of nature and their impact on the planet.

With cheers, laughter, and a collective sense of purpose, the day exemplified how interactive learning can inspire young minds and foster a commitment to sustainability. The vegetable garden stands as a testament to the power of community and collaboration, uplifting the spirits of the future generation while paving new pathways toward environmental stewardship.

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