The Walking in Victory Movement, the Christian student chapter on the North-West University's (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus, recently launched its #CleanUpVaal campaign.

Various stakeholders joined in, from students, school learners and street vendors, to soccer clubs and businesses. Together, they worked to clean up the Vanderbijlpark CBD, including two illegal dumping sites.

Campaign spokesperson Karabo Lefatola says the inspiration behind the initiative was to address the uncleanliness of the Vanderbijlpark CBD, to restore dignity to the environment and to encourage positive change and action among Vaal communities.

"The heart of this campaign is to challenge other communities to come together and clean their immediate surroundings,” says Karabo.

She adds that they are grateful and encouraged by the community’s response, and that people came in numbers to support the initiative. “Apart from cleaning the area, we also distributed food to the less fortunate.”

Karabo says this will be an ongoing initiative to encourage the Vaal community to take responsibility for its environment.

"To keep our environment clean takes a collective effort, and each and every person can play a part. Let's work together and get the Vaal back to its original state.

“The #CleanUpVaal campaign is a perfect example of how collective efforts towards a common goal can have a significant impact. It is encouraging to see how different stakeholders from across Vanderbijlpark came together to support the campaign.”

Dr Sean McCallaghan, director for student life, says the campaign is a reminder that anyone can make a difference by taking responsibility for their immediate surroundings.

"It's wonderful to see the enthusiasm and dedication of these students in making a positive impact in their community. Their hard work and determination are inspiring and serve as a great example for others. It's important to recognise and celebrate their achievements, as it encourages them to continue making a difference in the world around them," he adds.

"The #CleanUpVaal campaign is a call to action for other communities in the Vaal area. It challenges them to take responsibility for their immediate surroundings and work towards a clean environment. This is a shining example of what people can achieve together.”

Cleaning, caring and taking action: watch these short video clips of the #CleanUpVaal campaign.