Students reclaim neglected parks, transforming Pretoria’s green spaces
What was once a neglected dumping spot and informal construction area in Muckleneuk is being transformed into a symbol of renewal, as university students and the community reclaim the space through planting trees, teamwork and long-term civic pride.
From neglected parks to community green spaces, the Save the Earth from A to Z (ASEZ) church group movement has been transforming Pretoria’s environment for years.
Under the guidance of Pastor Noah Won, who founded the church and instilled a strong culture of service, the group has focused on restoring neglected spaces and fostering community stewardship.
Recently, the churchgoers and residents worked together to reclaim a neglected space in Mears Street, Muckleneuk, which had long been affected by illegal dumping and neglect.
During the 2016 Local Government Elections, Ward 59 councillor Shaun Wilkinson formed a working relationship with ASEZ that went beyond once-off clean-ups, helping to drive sustained environmental action.
“The ASEZ volunteers are doing amazing work with great enthusiasm, taking hands with the community and combining their strength with the community’s needs,” Wilkinson said.
“What we’re doing is reclaiming spaces that had been used for dumping and as informal construction sites, and we are sorting that out.”
Founded in 2015, ASEZ is a university student volunteer group dedicated to environmental conservation, climate initiatives, community service, and disaster relief.
The group has signed more than 150 partnerships with local and international institutions, including ministries of education and environment in countries such as Nepal and the Dominican Republic.
“ASEZ has also received over 400 awards for its volunteer efforts, including recognition from the United Nations and the US government,” said Wilkinson.
The initiative goes beyond litter collection or one-day activities.
ASEZ volunteers focus on community ownership, environmental education, and mobilising disciplined, values-driven young people to protect public spaces, restore green areas, and foster civic pride.
Their work includes removing invasive alien plants, planting indigenous trees, and rehabilitating spaces previously lost to dumping or neglect.
Volunteers recently planted trees in Muckleneuk as part of the ASEZ Green Carbon Campaign, adding greenery to a space that had been forgotten.
While the activity itself took only a few hours, it reflects the long-term mission of reclaiming and caring for neglected urban spaces, giving residents a reason to take pride in their neighbourhoods.
Resident Rose Perotti expressed appreciation for ASEZ’s efforts.
“Seeing a space I thought was lost to dumping being restored is truly meaningful,” said Perotti.
“It feels like the beginning of something lasting.”
Through sustained volunteer action and collaboration with the Tshwane metro and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, ASEZ continues to work on projects that restore ecosystems, increase biodiversity, and create safe, welcoming public spaces.
Their efforts demonstrate how neglected land can be transformed into vibrant, community-owned green areas, inspiring others to take care of their environment and neighbourhoods.
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