The Re-Creators is a social enterprise dedicated to inspiring creativity and sustainability through upcycling. The innovative Re-Creators team bring discarded materials back to life through hands-on workshops. The upcycled products are then made available to buy on the Re-Creators website. It’s a simple concept, but it has a massive impact on the environment. And now the younger generation can join this movement in the pioneering NCEA Circular Business Programme.
Re-Creators founder and co-CEO Geraldine Tew explains more: ‘The programme inspires future entrepreneurs to consider ethical supply chains, sustainable materials and longevity in design.’ She adds that by targeting high school students who are keen to explore new ideas and different ways of doing things, the programme has a long-term impact. The Your West Innovation Fund helps kickstart or grow bold ideas that make a real difference in our communities. The Re-Creators NCEA Circular Business Programme fitted the bill perfectly, receiving $26,620 in the latest funding round. Now, even more young Westies can get involved. Geraldine says that thanks to the funding, approximately 350 ākonga will develop their practical business skills this year. Students come from a wide range of colleges out West, including Henderson High School, Waitākere College, Kelston Girls’ College, and Massey High School.
The programme offers hands-on learning and theoretical knowledge as well as those all-important NCEA qualification credits. Students explore the global issues and environmental factors that impact business practices. And they apply that knowledge to prototype and develop their own sustainable businesses. Geraldine says that the talented students have created businesses that produce and sell native timber step stools, customised tote bags, and a range of eco-friendly skincare products. However, best of all, they’ve developed their self-confidence and problem-solving skills.
Geraldine sums up the programme’s impact by saying, ‘We not only nurture future entrepreneurs but also contribute to a more socially responsible and environmentally conscious economy.’ And that’s a win for everyone. Get in touch with the fantastic Re-Creators team to find out more about the Circular Business Programme. The website also has full details of the wide range of workshops and events hosted by the Re-Creators.
Why not sign up for a furniture restoration or jewellery-making workshop? There are plenty more ways you can get involved as a volunteer, so jump online for all the details.
