They have teamed up with the engineering faculty of the NWU Potchefstroom campus (Pukki diesel) and Mr Gideon van Rensburg to begin the soap making process. Van Rensburg has experience in soap production so the organisation decided to appoint him as the project advisor.

The students set about finding hotels and B&Bs that could donate soap and were able to team up with Road lodge, Anne’s place, Lemon Blossom and Akkerlaan Guesthouse.

With all the logistics in place, the students were finally able to start making soap and working with the elders.

Enactus is an international non-profit organisation that creates a platform for students to work hand in hand with educators and business leaders to improve the livelihood of community members.

Enactus teams identify a problem within the community and find entrepreneurial ways to meet these needs. By creating sustainable projects, Enactus aims to impact multitudes and transform lives. Its projects empower community members with all the necessary skills required to meet their own needs and improve their overall livelihood. The NPO enables people to be part of their own success.

Enactus uses sustainable business and sound economic practices to develop innovative business models based on risk, commitment and a willingness to follow through.

By conducting a needs assessment, Enactus North-West University (Potchefstroom campus) students have identified a number of needs within the Ikageng community that should be addressed.

It has identified poverty, alcohol abuse, unemployment and lack of education among other shortcomings. By addressing these socio-economic issues, Enactus aims to improve the social standing and economic status of the community.

Readers who wish to donate used soap or contact Enactus may email nwuenactus@gmail.com or call the team president, T Lekabe on 076 614 0853.