When the residents of Benoni noticed that neglected sidewalks and overgrown parks were fast becoming the norm, they didn’t throw their hands in the air and complain. They rolled up their sleeves, rallied one another, and formed an initiative that is bringing beauty and a breath of fresh air to their neighbourhood.
Benoni, South Africa (14 September 2026) – Big changes don’t always start with grand gestures. Sometimes, they begin with a broom, a paintbrush, or simply someone who cares enough to show up. This single idea encapsulates the heart of Clean Projects, a local initiative transforming the public spaces of Benoni every single day.
Founded in 2023 by resident Alison Etherington and her husband, the project was born out of frustration with urban decay. Neglected sidewalks, overgrown parks, blocked storm drains, and illegal dumping along key gateways were fast becoming the norm. Rather than waiting for solutions, Benoni residents rallied together, taking it upon themselves to tackle these issues and reclaim ownership of the town they call home.
Recently, the organisation brought a long-held dream to life: a vibrant community garden at the Celia Nestadt/O’Reilly Merry circle. Community members came armed with gloves and garden tools to beautify the area with plants and pretty blooms!
Working alongside students from St Dunstan’s College, the team also spent time painting old tyres for this year’s spring collection, creating a bright and colourful spectacle for passersby.
All of this bright flair happens alongside the essential, everyday groundwork such as clearing overgrown grass, freeing buried kerbs, refreshing road markings, painting street numbers, and unblocking storm drains wherever needed.
“Clean Projects really have brought a completely different energy to our streets. It’s the kind of care you feel the second you drive through town – waking up to freshly painted kerbs, cleared pathways, and actual colour where there used to just be overgrown weeds and litter,” shares Benoni resident Jenine Delport.
Jenine adds that what makes this community effort truly special is the genuine, creative heart behind the work – as seen in their bright artwork around the town,
“If you’ve driven around Benoni lately, you will see those adorable colourful bugs made from old car tyres with plants in, on the different intersections. They change them out with the seasons, and right now for spring, the curb corners are popping with bright colours. It’s such a small, thoughtful touch, but it brings an immediate smile to your face on an ordinary commute,” Jenine admires.
The work accomplished through every cleanup and beautification effort is, without a doubt, a source of pride and delight for the community. And even for those who may not necessarily be from the neighbourhood, witnessing a group of residents take collective action to care for and restore the place they call home is truly inspirational.
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To learn more about Clean Projects, visit their website and Facebook page.
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