8 August 2025 | HinThar Education | 22 participants
Reported by Khaing Su Myat Thin, Win Pyae Pyae Aung, Myat Noe Khin Khin, Aye Chan Pwint Phyu
Key takeaways
- Understanding “Upcycling” and Developing Practical Skills: Many participants began the session unfamiliar with the concept of upcycling, but by the end of the two-hour workshop, they had gained a solid understanding of its meaning and practical applications in daily life. Through hands-on activities, they learned how to transform plastic waste into useful and creative products—such as handmade bracelets—that may even become a source of sustainable income.
Participants actively joining the workshop
- Uplift the Environmental and Plastic Pollution Awareness: Knowledge-sharing sessions led by the Myanmar fellows and partner organizations helped deepen participants’ understanding of plastic pollution and its environmental impacts. The discussions encouraged reflection on individual responsibility and inspired actionable steps toward reducing plastic waste in their own communities.
Knowledge-sharing session by ReCircle
- Building Connections for Sustainability: Over lunch, participants enjoyed an inclusive and friendly environment that encouraged conversation and collaboration. The event became a meaningful opportunity for attendees to network with like-minded individuals who share a passion for sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Bonding experience throughout the workshop
Main highlights
The “Turn Trash Into Treasure: ReCircle x Purple Upcycling Workshop” is organized by ReCircle (AJYELN 2.0 Myanmar Fellows) in collaboration with Purple – ပါပယ်, a social enterprise specializing in transforming plastic waste into reusable items such as earrings, bracelets, and other accessories which brought creativity and sustainability together.
Through a mix of knowledge-sharing and hands-on activities, participants learned how to transform plastic waste into stylish bracelets while gaining insights into practical waste solutions. The workshop also fostered new friendships and meaningful discussions over lunch, creating an inclusive space for environmental learning and collaboration.
- Date: 8 August 2025
- Venue: HinThar Education
- Organizer and co-organizers: ReCircle in collaboration with Purple – ပါပယ် (Social Enterprise)
- No. of participants: 22 participants
Activities implemented
ReCircle Introduction & Icebreaking Activities
The workshop opened with a warm welcome from the ReCircle team, followed by icebreaking games that set up a friendly and energetic tone. The laughter and interaction helped participants feel comfortable and connected right from the start.
Knowledge-sharing Session with Purple – ပါပယ်
Representatives from Purple and ReCircle delivered an inspiring presentation on plastic pollution and the concept of upcycling. Through stories and real-life examples, they illustrated how creativity and sustainability can turn everyday waste into valuable products.
Hands-On Bracelet-Making from Plastic Waste
Guided by Purple’s facilitators, participants worked in groups to transform pre-prepared plastic materials into beautiful handmade bracelets. From cutting and shaping to assembling, the activity brought out everyone’s creativity while emphasizing teamwork and practical learning.
Lunch & Networking Session
Lunch time offered a relaxing break and a chance for participants to share their creations and connect with fellow environmental enthusiasts. The informal setting fostered meaningful exchanges and strengthened the spirit of community.
Closing & Group Photo
The day concluded with heartfelt closing remarks, a brief feedback session, and a cheerful group photo capturing the enthusiasm of all participants. Everyone went home with their own upcycled bracelet—along with new knowledge, friendships, and motivation to adopt sustainable habits in daily life.
Outcome
- Hands-on Achievement: All 22 participants successfully crafted wearable bracelets made from upcycled plastic waste.
- High Online Reach: The call-for-participants post garnered over 7.9K views and 800+ engagements within just three days.
- Strong Interest: The workshop attracted more than 40 registrations, reflecting strong enthusiasm from the community.
- Meaningful Connections: Participants built new networks with peers who share a common passion for sustainability and environmental action.
Feedback
The “Turn Trash Into Treasure: ReCircle x Purple Upcycling Workshop” concluded on an inspiring note, leaving participants with new skills, meaningful connections, and a stronger sense of environmental responsibility. Beyond crafting upcycled bracelets, the event sparked creativity and awareness about the importance of reducing plastic waste in daily life. The positive feedback and enthusiasm from participants reflected the success of the initiative, reinforcing the shared commitment of ReCircle, Purple, and AJYELN to empower youth in driving sustainable change within their communities.
