The Full Story
About us
In December 2019 we created green° to sustainably raise funds for education in South Africa. We had been made aware of the fact that many children had no access to basic required stationery. We wanted to assist these children, have a positive impact on the environment and in the communities we worked in.
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We had our first fundraising function, a small gathering of friends and family where we collected old denim and raised R12000 in the form of pencil case sponsorship and so began a creative, challenging and uplifting journey…
We raised awareness that evening of the excessive water used in the denim manufacturing
process, the dreadful pollution left behind and how much of this still strong and usable material ended up in landfill. In discovering this we became aware of a unique opportunity and challenge to creatively and sustainably raise funds, while saving waste material from landfill and creating employment and awareness of the environmental crisis. Using the Sewing cafe in Masiphumelele we made our first 500 pencil cases and filled them with stationery.
Year on year green° has grown on all fronts. Today we collect a multitude of different waste fabrics. To raise funds we design and develop beautiful, functional upcycled products best suited to these materials. We employ local craftsmen, training initiatives and community collaboratives to hand make our designs which are available at our annual open day.
100% of all profits go into supplying required stationery and pencil cases to children at Capricorn, Caravelle and Westlake primary schools.
In 2020 we assisted 500 children, this January 2025 we assisted 2550 children. Annually we go to each school and hand out to each child, developing a good working relationship within the schools that we sponsor, and ensuring we supply what is most needed. Feedback from the schools is that there is a significant impact on the learners ability to engage and a noticeable improvement in pride of their work, pupils are more motivated knowing they have the tools to participate in assignments. Teachers also report on boosted confidence, increase in workflow and less disruptions in the classroom.
We have worked hard and had a challenging, inspiring and rewarding journey so far. We’d never be able to do this without our families, friends, and the community—those who donate, purchase, support and collaborate.
We invite everyone to please join us, and become part of the green° story.
Mission
At green°, we believe every child deserves the chance to learn, grow and thrive. We raise funds to support under-resourced primary schools. By forming long-term, meaningful relationships with our beneficiaries we can help ensure that every contribution meets a real need and makes a lasting difference.
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Our mission is rooted in sustainability and care. We repurpose waste materials into beautiful, functional products using the hands and talents of local artisans and community members. In doing so, we reduce waste, support livelihoods and create products that tell a story of hope and possibility.
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We champion conscious consumerism by inviting people to make choices that honour the planet and uplift communities. Every item we sell helps equip a child for the classroom, and every act of support helps build a better future for us all.
Values
1. Sustainability
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2. Support & Uplift Local
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3. Kindness
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