iNanoWS and JCPZ: Honouring Nelson Mandela’s Legacy at Florida Lake

Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability

iNanoWS Newsletter Monthly Edition | July 2025

On 18 July 2025, in celebration of Nelson Mandela Day and his 67 years of public service, the Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability (iNanoWS) partnered with Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo (JCPZ) for an impactful environmental initiative at Florida Lake Regional Park.

The event aimed to remove solid waste from the lake and surrounding areas, supporting JCPZ’s ongoing work while imparting valuable knowledge to iNanoWS students and staff on catchment care. This collaboration not only contributed to environmental restoration but also underscored the Mandela Day spirit of positive change and meaningful contributions.

Event Highlights

Opening Address – Florida Ward Councillor Mr Caleb Finn welcomed participants, highlighting the project’s significance for the lake’s ecosystem and community enjoyment. He generously offered a boat to assist in cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
Purpose of the Day – Ms Puleng Ditabe, JCPZ Regional Manager, emphasised that “JCPZ has Mandela Day every day” as part of their service to the Florida community.
Keynote – Dr TS Munonde, Chair of iNanoWS, spoke on the importance of engaging with the Florida Lake management to foster ongoing community-driven environmental care.
Educational Segment – Ms Nokubonga Mvolontshi, Nature Conservator, presented on catchment management practices, deepening participants’ understanding of aquatic ecosystem health.
Safety Briefing & Team Assignments – Led by Mr Mike Masie and JCPZ senior horticulturalists, ensuring safe and efficient clean-up operations.

Event Photo Gallery

Photos from the clean-up, guest speeches, and team activities have been thoughtfully compiled to capture the spirit of the day. Browse a selection of highlights in the gallery below.

Next steps: Plans are underway to expand the partnership between iNanoWS and JCPZ, ensuring regular community clean-ups and continued education on environmental stewardship.

On the Ground: Team Efforts

Participants were divided into specialised teams, each guided by a JCPZ senior member and equipped with tools such as steel rakes, litter pickers, waders, and brushcutters. Activities included:

Dam clean-up and debris removal
Grass cutting and pruning
Clearing stormwater drainage and wetland areas
Cutting alien invasive trees
Weeding and cleaning flowerbeds

Over two hours of coordinated effort, iNanoWS staff, students, and JCPZ employees restored sections of the lake, improving its appeal for wildlife and community visitors.

Voices from the Day

Many participants expressed how rewarding it was to contribute physically to environmental restoration, a change of pace from the mental demands of laboratory work. The collaboration fostered a sense of unity and purpose, with hopes to make this an annual community event.

Acknowledgements

Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo – for resources, leadership, and dedication.
Florida Councillor Mr Caleb Finn – for his active support and provision of a safety boat.
All iNanoWS participants – for their commitment to service and learning.