Enhle to use reign to inspire peers to care for environment

Miss Eco Teen International Enhle Mdakane (14), of Crystal Park, recently partnered with the Etwatwa Greening Team and Vutwa Waste Services during World Wetlands Day to clean up parts of the Blesbokspruit, the only Ramsar wetland in Gauteng, which originates in Daveyton and passes through several areas before joining the Suikerbosrand River.

Enhle explained they want to educate schools about environmental issues, and supply them with seeds to start their own gardens and plant flowers and trees.

She was joined by five local schools, including Quantum High School and Kwazakhele Primary, on the day.

“By working together, we can protect our natural resources and create a cleaner and healthier environment for everyone,” she said.

Enhle said she plans to inspire others by demonstrating ecofriendly practises in her life like recycling, conserving water and supporting sustainable products.

Winning the title and becoming the youngest holder was an empowering and emotional moment that gave her a sense of accomplishment.

“I felt a great sense of pride in breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes.

“It was a moment of inspiration not only for myself but for young girls who may have felt underrepresented and underestimated in the pageant.”

Enhle’s love for fashion and expressing herself creatively inspired her to become a model. The teen would wear her mom’s clothes and create her own runway to showcase her ‘fashion line’ early in her life.

“I was born with that passion. My mom took me to modelling lessons when I was six and a year later I started modelling,” said Enhle.

While the love for the fashion world remained deep, environmental issues like deforestation, climate change and pollution concerned her. It influenced her decision to use her platform to fight for the care of the environment.

“I’ve always been fascinated by the beauty and complexity of our natural world.

“I believe we have a responsibility to protect and preserve the planet,” she said.

“By advocating for the care of our environment, I hope to make a positive difference and inspire others to take action.”

The Curro Helderwyk learner said she wants to use this opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of protecting wetlands and dams, adding they are vital ecosystems that provide habitat for wildlife and help regulate water quality.

“Through initiatives such as organising clean-ups, sharing information about sustainable practices and advocating for stronger environmental regulations, “I hope to inspire others to make a positive impact on our environment,” said Enhle.

She plans to pursue modelling as a career.

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