A group of enterprising residents from the Wolf informal settlement in Vosloorus is all smiles after receiving 120 shiny new bicycles on Thursday the 31st of January in return for trees grown from seed, and potted in recycled containers.
Driven by the Wildlands Conservation Trust (Wildlands) and sponsored by Qhubeka (powered by World Bicycle Relief), the Green-preneur project started in 2008 and aims to propagate as many indigenous trees as possible for conservation, while giving “Green-preuners,” (as participants are known) the opportunity to better their circumstances.
Says overjoyed Green-preneur, Anna Skele (53): “Since I joined this project I have received 20 bicycles. When I receive my bicycles I sell them. With the money, I have been able to pay school fees for my children, buy full school uniform for them and even buy groceries to help feed my family.” Skele received 15 bikes last week.
“Green-preneurs generally sell their bikes for cash. Some of them also use the bikes to collect waste for recycling, and some have even started pedal-powered transport businesses of their own,” says Wildlands Strategic Manager, Debbie Farley.
According to Lerato Tracy Moale (28), who received 10 bikes last week (and has received some 85 since 2008): “I have a fully furnished house, where I stay with my two kids – and I’ve been able to do all of this through the money I get from selling my bicycles. I’m now able to wake up in the morning with a purpose, which is growing indigenous trees and working in the comfort of my home. It makes me proud because I know that I am part of the people who are giving back to the environment through Wildlands.”
Sponsors Qhubeka have expressed satisfaction at the results of their efforts: “It is great to see the momentum of this project. Over the last 2 years we have handed-over 1500 bicycles to this community of Vosloorus. I also want to thank MTN, Edenglen Cycling Club and Webber Wentzel for their support,” concludes Anthony Fitzhenry, Qhubeka.
