Caleon and AfriSam show learners the art of concrete
More learners at The Gateway School, a leading school in Roodepoort for special education needs, were recently empowered in the art of concrete creations.
Through a structured mentorship programme undertaken by precast concrete manufacturer Caleon Garden Creations, learners are being given the opportunity to create their own art using concrete. A range of other skills is also being imparted during the initiative, creating concrete possibilities for learners as they prepare to graduate.
The Gateway School’s focus is helping learners with special needs to achieve their full potential, by providing excellent educational opportunities and developing each learner holistically. This includes empowering them with the skills and knowledge they need in the world of work. In doing this, the school often partners with corporates to expose the learners to various skills and has partnered with Caleon Garden Creations for the last four years.
AfriSam recently came on board to support Caleon Garden Creations in this worthy cause. In the programme, three or four learners are taken in at a time, and management and employees take these youngsters under their wing.
With a factory in Rietfontein, Caleon Garden Creations manufactures a wide range of concrete products such as tables, benches, pots and water features. Its products epitomise creativity and artistry in the use of concrete.
For AfriSam, with its commitment to community upliftment and empowerment, this initiative represented a fitting cause. The company’s own efforts are focused on initiatives that are sustainable and enable the beneficiaries to be self-sufficient.
“We are very excited to be a part of this initiative and are inspired to see the work that Caleon Garden Creations has been doing with The Gateway School.” said Adele Wentzel, sales manager for AfriSam. “Going forward, we would like to continue in this partnership and ensure we do our part to make this initiative possible.”
At the completion of their practical block, learners were excited to show off their creations and exuded confidence in working with concrete. It was a proud moment for all involved as they witnessed the achievements of these learners and their enthusiasm in showcasing their art.
Speaking at the event, Caleon Garden Creations owner Ferdi de Wit said the initiative was the company’s way of contributing to the upliftment of society.
“For my team and I, working with The Gateway School is a heart-warming tradition that we are proud to carry through,” said De Wit. “It is our greatest pleasure to impart skills that these young learners can use. Hopefully, we have inspired them to build on these skills and to create their own businesses in the future. With each group that joins us, we are always inspired by the commitment from the school.”
Speaking on behalf of The Gateway School, its occupational therapist Karen Botha said they were touched that there were people who understood the school’s needs and were committed to helping this cause.
“Our continued partnership with Caleon Garden Creations and now with AfriSam gives our learners opportunities to learn new skills,” said Botha. “More importantly, it helps them build confidence in their abilities and shows them just how much more they are capable of. For that, we are grateful.”
About AfriSam
AfriSam is the leading black-controlled concrete materials group in southern Africa and the only established cement manufacturer to hold a Level 4 B-BBEE rating. Since establishing its first cement plant in 1934, the company has grown into a formidable construction materials group with operations in South Africa, Lesotho, Swaziland and Tanzania.
From its seven cementitious manufacturing facilities, 17 quarries and 43 readymix operations, the group has the capacity to produce in excess of 5 million tons of cement, 10 million tons of aggregate, 800 000 tons of slagment and 2 million cubic meters of readymix concrete annually.
More information from Maxine Nel, Tel: +27(0)11 670 5893 / email: maxine.nel@za.afrisam.com / www.afrisam.com
