Four Filipino international students from the Philippines embarked on a mission that would not only transform not just their lives but also the environment they now consider their second home. Armed with determination, resourcefulness and a desire to make a difference, these students set out to turn plastic bottles into a source of inspiration. They were able to recently exchange their collected plastic bottles for $400.
Reenel Tendido, Ace Samaniego, Lance Silva and Jhek Garcia all saw an opportunity to contribute to their community while pursuing their education in Australia. “I started this initiative because I want to reduce waste that can affect the environment,” Jhek explained. These changemakers set aside time to gather plastic bottles throughout Melbourne for a full month. They gathered as many plastic bottles as they could, not only for the environment but also to fund their dreams.
“We are friends even in the Philippines. Back then, we were also collecting plastic bottles,” Jhek revealed. Their diligent efforts paid off, literally and figuratively. They had amassed so many bottles that they found themselves staring at plastic bags full to the brim with recyclable materials. Because of the extent of their collection, it required six car rides to get them to the recycling centre.”We have no set time for collections. We collected when we see plastic bottles. We live in the same area, that’s why it’s easier for us in Melbourne to go first,” Jhek mentioned. It wasn’t just about the money; it demonstrated what a group of committed people might do when motivated by a common goal.
“It makes me feel better that in a small way, I can help the environment. Whenever I have free time, I see to it that I can collect bottles even just a little,” Jhek expressed. With their earnings, Reenel, Ace, Lance and Jhek pooled their resources for their educational endeavours. Every dollar earned became an investment in their common goal of receiving quality education in Australia. The funds earned from their collective efforts were modest but meaningful. “I was able to buy school supplies and some food for myself,” Jhek shared. The financial support extended beyond textbooks and supplies, resonating with the daily needs of a student living abroad.
“I hope that someday we can live in an environment that is free from plastics because it will benefit the future of the next generation,” Jhek reflected on the broader impact of their initiative. Balancing studies and the initiative isn’t without its challenges, but Jhek remains resilient. “I want to continue what I am doing today,” he added. These committed students demonstrated the strength of group effort with their initiative; even though they were hundreds of miles away from home, they were improving both their own lives and the environment.
As the four friends continue their academic journey in Australia, their story serves as a ray of hope, demonstrating how even modest efforts may have a big impact. It serves as a reminder that, no matter where you come from, every effort to make the world a better place is a step towards a brighter future.
