While struggling with unemployment, Nkosi discovered a passion for recycling, starting with a simple trolley and a determination to make a difference. Today, he not only runs two successful recycling sites, creating 18 jobs, but also inspires others through his free training programme, Amathandamvelo.
Eastern Cape, South Africa (17 February 2025) – Celebrating South Africans who are determined to help protect and preserve our planet will never get old, certainly not in our books. One such remarkable individual is enviro warrior, Mandlenkosi Nkosi.
Nkosi, who overcame humble beginnings and financial struggles, transformed his life through recycling, establishing two recycling sites in Idutywa and Boksburg, and creating employment for 18 people!
Once unemployed and desperate for work, he found himself intrigued by recycling, prompting him to build a trolley and make it his daily mission to collect waste from informal traders to recycle and make money.
His wife soon joined him, and it wasn’t long before Nkosi caught the eye of a city official who helped secure work at an Ekurhuleni transfer station.
According to Vuk’uzenzele, that was a huge milestone for Nkosi as it led to work at other local transfer stations. The couple later bought an old bakkie, which helped them reach and service other stations, expanding their business and creating jobs.
Today, Nkosi runs two successful recycling sites as well as a free training programme called Amathandamvelo, which teaches the importance of taking care of the environment and making money from recycling.
According to Mpact Recycling, which recently awarded Nkosi a Green Hearts Award, through Amathandamvelo, he has educated over 500 individuals on environmental care and the profitability of recycling, contributing significantly to South Africa’s circular economy.
We celebrate this champion of recycling! Nkosi is a shining example of how passion, perseverance, and a commitment to sustainability can create positive change, empowering individuals and protecting our planet.
Sources: Vuk’uzenzele | Mpact Recycling
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