The national director, Catherine Constantinides addressed the learners sharing with them the importance of education and their vital contribution as the young caretakers of our planet. Altrisk, Consol and Columbine Square along with other individuals that have already supplied stationery for the first leg of the distribution. Columbine Crossing have supported this initiative for the past three years and their generous and outstanding contribution creates an amazing example to the southern community.

Principal Arensde of Naturena Primary welcomed the stationery saying, "It’s important for communities to help one another as much as possible.' The initiative has been extended to schools in Cape Town and Kwazulu-Natal and this roll out will continue till the end of March.

Every contribution has made a difference to those who are in need and starting their school year with nothing. Through the work that is done, Miss Earth South Africa and Consol ensure that there is an educational element and foundation that is put into place. This campaign follows in the footsteps of previous years success with 4 000 learners reached in 2011. This year a goal of 10 000 stationery packs has been set. “This is a contribution towards the building of the young characters, of the children that we interact with on a daily basis. Learning thrives in a productive environment, and by educating and greening, we are able to accomplish something special” said Ella Bella. Ella Bella is the educational facilitator for Miss Earth and she furthermore said this initiative simultaneously gives children the knowledge of their potential, it establishes a healthy and happy environment and allows the organisation to strive to instil in each and every learner the will to accomplish their goals and dreams knowing that each pencil held will be their road to success. Constantinides ended off the projects last week saying “Our children are our greatest investment as we move forward. There is no worthier cause than the care of the future generations.”

To support this initiative contact Miss Earth South Africa head office on 082 505 0664 or email missearthsa@mweb.co.za

Image caption: Kirsten Carls, Miss Earth South Africa runner up hands out stationery at schools in Dobsonville and Naturena, South of Johannesburg.