WATCH: Planting seeds of hope as women and environmental leaders unite in Mondeor
10 trees planted at Brabazon Sports Field to mark Women’s Month.
Miss Earth South Africa joined forces with Rand Water, Water Wise and Grade Seven learners from Mondeor Primary School for a tree-planting initiative at Brabazon Sports Field in Mondeor on August 7.
The initiative, held ahead of National Women’s Day, highlighted the important role women and young people play in building healthier communities and protecting the environment.
Ten trees were planted as part of the initiative, with organisers emphasising that the event was about more than beautifying the sports field.
@southern.courier Miss Earth South Africa director Ella Bella Leite said the trees represented hope for the community, the environment and future generations. Read more on southerncourier.co.za
Miss Earth South Africa director Ella Bella Leite said the trees represented hope for the community, the environment and future generations.
“Today we are celebrating Women’s Day together with Mondeor Primary, Rand Water and Water Wise. We are planting seeds of hope, and for us that means something for our community, these young people and our environment,” said Leite.
“We are not only planting for oxygen or the beauty of the area. We are planting in the minds and hearts of these young people so that they can care for people and the planet. Remember, small actions have a big impact on tomorrow, so start today.”
Leite said the initiative also celebrated women as leaders, nurturers and environmental champions who inspire responsibility, strengthen communities and create a legacy for future generations.
Grade Seven learner Tealynn Abrahams said the trees would help provide oxygen and contribute towards protecting the planet.
@southern.courier Grade Seven learner Tealynn Abrahams said the trees would help provide oxygen and contribute towards protecting the planet. Full story on southerncourier.co.za
The partnership with Rand Water and its Water Wise programme reinforces a shared commitment to environmental education, responsible water use and sustainable living.
The organisations aim to encourage communities to understand the connection between healthy ecosystems, water security and climate resilience.
“Women have always been at the heart of building stronger families and stronger communities. When women lead, they create lasting change,” said Leite.
“Planting a tree is not simply about beautifying an area or improving air quality. It is about creating a living legacy, teaching children the value of protecting nature, inspiring communities to adopt sustainable habits and showing that small actions today can transform tomorrow.”
Miss Earth South Africa semi-finalist Karla Janse van Rensburg, who is from the South of Johannesburg, also participated in the initiative.
Janse van Rensburg recently completed her Master of Science in Environmental Sciences, specialising in Herpetology, and is currently a Cheetah Conservation Field Officer with the Endangered Wildlife Trust.
Leite said Janse van Rensburg is a longtime supporter of Manzi and Rand Water and understands the importance of water stewardship.
“She understands that we are all responsible for how we use water and the importance of saving water, collecting rainwater and being a Water Hero every day,” said Leite.
On behalf of Rand Water, Colourful Splendour Group donated the 10 trees, while Culterra donated compost for the project.
More on Miss Earth South Africa
The Miss Earth South Africa winners’ announcement will take place at the end of September at Thaba Eco Hotel, also in the South of Johannesburg.
The event will recognise the work undertaken by the finalists from across South Africa over the past six months.
The South African representative will later travel to the Philippines for the international Miss Earth event, where she will showcase the country’s environmental and community initiatives.
With support from partners including Cathay Pacific, Samsonite and Skin Renewal SA, Miss Earth South Africa aims to provide a platform for the country’s environmental ambassador to share these projects internationally.
The women-led organisation continues to build a movement around environmental responsibility and community empowerment, planting seeds of hope “one tree, one community and one generation at a time”.
@southern.courier Miss Earth South Africa joined forces with Rand Water, Water Wise and Grade Seven learners from Mondeor Primary School for a tree-planting initiative at Brabazon Sports Field in Mondeor on August 7. Full story on southerncourier.co.za
Miss Earth South Africa is a nationally recognised leadership and empowerment platform that develops young women into environmental ambassadors and community leaders.
Based in the South of Johannesburg, the programme equips participants with knowledge, confidence and practical skills to create meaningful social and environmental impact.
Now in its 24th year, Miss Earth South Africa continues to empower young women to become positive voices for environmental protection and community change.
@southern.courier Rand Water mascot, Manzi ensured much entertainment on the day. Full story on southerncourier.co.za
