Every pair of shoes tells a story of hope and opportunity. Zinhle Ndlovu is turning hospital waste into school shoes for children in KwaZulu-Natal, ensuring they can attend school safely and comfortably. Through the Sinomusa Sonke Foundation, she provides pupils with new shoes made from recycled oxygen masks, PVC tubing, and hospital materials.
The initiative not only supports education but also promotes environmental sustainability.
Ndlovu grew up in Mvuzane, Nkandla, walking several kilometres to school barefoot and crossing gravel roads and rivers.
“I walked several kilometres to school without shoes,” she recalls.
Today, as a nurse, she is determined to prevent children from facing the same hardships. She explains that many pupils still wear worn-out or too-small shoes and that families struggling with high unemployment often cannot afford replacements. Without proper footwear, children risk injuries, infections, or even dropping out of school.
Since 2018, Ndlovu has partnered with Netcare, Adcock Ingram Critical Care, and the My Walk initiative to collect hospital waste and convert it into durable school shoes. To date, more than 2 000 pairs have been donated to pupils in and around Amanzimtoti, giving children a sense of pride and the ability to focus on learning instead of their discomfort.
The programme also raises awareness about recycling and sustainability by repurposing over 40 000 tonnes of hospital waste generated annually. Ndlovu combines her nursing experience with entrepreneurial vision, training teams to produce high-quality shoes and expand distribution to reach more schools.
“Seeing children receive a good pair of shoes makes me happy,” she says.
“Just by using your own life experiences and lessons, you can make a big impact.”
Zinhle Ndlovu continues to fulfill her nursing duties while walking the extra mile for children. Through innovation, compassion, and perseverance, she is ensuring that a simple necessity like shoes opens doors for learning, health, and a brighter future for youth in her community.
Description: Zinhle Ndlovu is providing school shoes made from recycled hospital waste to children in KwaZulu-Natal through the Sinomusa Sonke Foundation. Her initiative improves school attendance, protects children’s health, and promotes sustainability while turning life challenges into opportunities for others.
Editor’s Note: This story demonstrates how personal experience can inspire impactful social entrepreneurship. Zinhle Ndlovu’s work highlights the intersection of education, health, and sustainability, showing how innovative solutions can address multiple community challenges simultaneously.
