When many residents were winding down over the festive season, Nicky Liebenberg was rolling up her sleeves to give her neighbourhood a fresh start.

A resident of Linden for 17 years, Liebenberg took it upon herself to clean a neglected stretch of pavement and roadway on 3rd Avenue between 6th and 7th streets, starting with the restoration of the succulent garden opposite Njam Eatery.

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“People in the community seem to be close and look out for each other,” she said, highlighting how care spills over into the community through its many activities, sporting groups and good schools.

Liebenberg’s motivation was simple but deeply rooted in civic pride.

“It’s ultimately people who make up a community. If each business and household takes care of their surroundings, the community can look fantastic,” she said, adding residents often need to step in where municipalities fall short. “Strong communities also lend towards lower crime rates as people look out for each other.”

The decision to focus on that particular section came from repeated frustration. “The weeds bothered me every time I walked past. I didn’t like seeing the succulents dying off and litter everywhere,” she said.

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“So I just decided to clean up, as no one else was doing it. It gives me great satisfaction afterwards.”

Her solo effort soon inspired support. A local man, Philemon, offered to help, turning the clean-up into a shared effort. Liebenberg hopes the impact extends beyond a tidier pavement.

“It only takes one person to break the ice,” she said. “I hope it sparks more community involvement. Imagine how amazing Johannesburg would look if everyone joined forces.”

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