A gesture which highlights how small, everyday interactions can build meaningful relationships is what Isaac Moseme’s gift was to Arbor Village.

Moseme presented a model of the Eiffel Tower to Abor Village on April 13 as a token of gratitude for the help received.

Manager at Methodist Homes Arbor Village, Denise Stanton, said their first reaction when Moseme presented the gift was one of genuine surprise and deep appreciation.

“It was completely unexpected, and the level of detail and care that went into the piece made it even more special.

“It was a very moving moment for many of us, especially the residents.”

Stanton said they have known Isaac for approximately four years, as he has been visiting the village every Monday to collect recyclables.

She added that over time, he became a familiar and valued presence in their community.

The manager noted, “His consistency, humility, and work ethic have earned him a great deal of respect from both residents and staff.”

In 2011, Moseme left his previous job and started collecting waste cardboard and plastic, which he sells on to a recycling depot.

For the past four years, he has visited Arbor Village every Monday morning to collect these products before the municipality removes the rest of the waste later on the same day.

Then he hauls them to a depot some seven kilometres away.

Moseme said his decision to present this work of art to the village stems from the welcome he felt from the start from the security guards, maintenance staff, and residents he encountered on his visits.

His task is made easier because many residents separate their garbage, and the maintenance staff consolidate the collection.

Stanton acknowledged that this generous gift is not a product of his work, but of his hobby.

She said he learnt the art of wire modelling while at primary school on a farm in the Free State, where he was born in the ‘auspicious’ year 1976.

At that time, he was making the wire motor cars that are often seen in rural areas, where creative children make their own toys.

The manager shared that Moseme’s first major project as an adult was a model of a helicopter, which he has since dismantled on the grounds that it could “kill someone”.

“The Eiffel Tower depicted here came next, and he has installed it near the entrance to the administration block, an exceptionally generous gift.

“His gesture resonated so deeply because it was heartfelt and sincere. It was neither expected nor done for recognition.

“The fact that he chose to express his gratitude in such a creative and meaningful way touched everyone, reminding us of the importance of kindness and human connection,” said Stanton.

She further said this story beautifully reflects the values held at Arbour Village: respect, care, and a strong sense of community.

She added that it highlights how small, everyday interactions can build meaningful relationships, and how a culture of kindness and mutual support can have a lasting impact on everyone involved.

Moseme worked on something even more ambitious next: a model of the Titanic, which he planned to complete by May 2 this year.

Such artistry and generosity deserve a wider audience.