CityZen honoured for its commitment to the community
CityZen, which operates in various Bryanston and Sandton suburbs, fights neighbourhood deterioration by creating a greener, clean and safe areas, one clean-up at a time.
Local organisation CityZen was recently honoured for the hard work it has committed to the environment and the community.
CityZen was one of the recipients of the prestigious Caroline Reid Award for Clean-Up Champion of the Year award.
Presented by Plastics SA, the award was named after a late ocean conservation warrior, Reid and aims to recognise and reward excellence in South Africa by an individual in the field of waterways, marine and coastal clean-ups.
“Reid sadly passed away in 2018 after a tragic accident, but we wanted to ensure her memory and passion live on with these awards that recognise and reward greatness by an individual in the field of inland, waterways and marine and coastal clean-ups,” said Plastics SA sustainability director Douw Steyn.
Plastics SA represents all sectors of the South African Plastics Industry, which includes polymer producers, importers, converters, machine suppliers, fabricators and recyclers.
According to CityZen’s Najen Naidoo, winning this award was special to the team because non-profits seldom received enough support or acknowledgement for the work that they did.
“Winning awards like the Caroline Reid Award gives us a sense of recognition for the unglamorous work we do but also helps raise our profile and credibility in the community,” he said.
“[It] shows people [that] we are doing good work, we are trustworthy and reliable and are deserving of the support of our community and local businesses.”
CityZen, which operates in various Bryanston and Sandton suburbs, fights neighbourhood deterioration by creating a greener, clean and safe areas, one clean-up at a time.
The team turns collected waste into sustainable job opportunities through recycling and upcycling programmes.
“CityZen has helped uplift several people out of poverty and taken them off the streets and giving them the dignity of contributing to society.”
Naidoo called on residents to take a proactive step and support the local charity organisations in the area that create meaningful employment and add value.
“Remember tipping someone is paying them for a service, so we are encouraging begging and keeping that person trapped in their current circumstances.
“Your local community-based organisations are run by your neighbours and friends and are always in need of funding. Please work with them and they will make sure your money is put to good use.”
Details: CityZen 011 387 3423.
Related articles:
https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/298989/a-greener-community-for-all/
https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/301653/community-partners-for-good/
