Many South African students walk to school barefoot or with ill-fitting shoes. The NGO My Walk Made with Soul transforms non-hazardous PVC medical waste like IV bags and oxygen masks into durable, fully recyclable school shoes. Partnering with the private healthcare firm Netcare Holdings and the pharma company Adcock Ingram, the nonprofit has recycled 150,000 kg of waste and donated over 300,000 pairs of shoes since 2020. This innovative circular economy project, also backed by the South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, supports education, reduces landfill waste and creates jobs.
Awards 2025