Local Self-Taught creative displays plastic accessory range upcycled from used bottle caps
In an inspiring journey of creativity and environmental consciousness, Benanile Maphanga sells unique pieces of accessories mostly earrings and neck pieces at the MTN Bushfire Festival also joining the World Environment Day themed; ‘End Plastic Waste’.
Through her accessory brand, Benanial, Maphanga transforms discarded plastic into beautiful, functional accessories—all through self-taught skills online through experience. Her journey from repurposing waste to showcasing her work for an international market, is an example of the power of individual action and conscious action.
“From a young age i’ve always loved to recreate using things that people would often see no value in and so i did the same with bottle caps from soft drinks and milk cartons which I simply melt and redesign into earrings and other decorative pieces that last a lifetime.”
Her innovative creations caught the attention of the MTN Bushfire Festival organizers when she applied to showcase her work at this year’s Bushfire Festival. The Festival carries a strong emphasis on sustainability and the promotion of local products to it’s thousands of yearly revellers.
“The festival aligns perfectly with my values and I am grateful for the opportunity celebrating creativity while promoting green climate action. I was happy that people could see that even waste can be transformed into something beautiful and useful.”
The Benanial stall was a hit, drawing visitors eager to learn about eco-friendly fashion and the importance of reducing plastic pollution. Maphanga also shares that she was excited about the reception of her products citing that it wasn’t just Swazis who purchased.
Her presence at the festival also resonated with the current theme of this year’s World Environment Day, held every 4th of June, which urges citizens to “Beat Plastic Pollution.”
She also joined commemoration which were held at the University of Eswatini, Kwaluseni campus where her products were on display to encourage even incoming creatives that you can make a positive climate contribution while doing what you love.
Beyond her artistic endeavors, Benanile urges local governments and corporations to support similar initiatives to reduce plastic use and improve recycling infrastructure.
“Every piece I create is a small step towards a cleaner planet. I hope Organizations can see this and invest in my craft so I can both clean up Eswatini and be able to train people that can assist me in production of even more climate friendly items.”
Her upcycled contemporary jewelry are currently ready to purchase at Dala Spaces, a 100% local shop located at House on Fire Malkerns as well as at Ngwenya, near the glass factory. She also is open to custom items and direct orders through her page across all social media platforms: Benanial and on 7935 3546/78.
