“Keep It Up”: Soweto Man Turns Trash Into Treasure

• A young Soweto man used TikTok to showcase how he built a recycling business from his backyard, inspiring many online.
• The business has grown into bin cleaning and recycling, with the community, including children, helping along the way.
• His video tied into a youth campaign that could provide funding, sparking hope for his dream of opening a recycling plant.

South Africans were inspired by a young Soweto man who turned waste into opportunity and now dreams of growing his recycling hustle.

In Soweto, a 21-year-old has become an inspiring example of how determination can turn everyday challenges into real opportunities. A TikTok posted by TikTok user @accordingtobanzo on 1 September 2025 introduced viewers to the young man’s journey from humble beginnings in his mother’s backyard to running his own waste management and recycling business. In just two days, the clip attracted more than 10,000 likes, with many people praising his vision and drive.

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From backyard hustle to big dreams

What others dismissed as rubbish, he saw as valuable. He began by collecting bottles, sorting through what many considered waste, and treating it like treasure. Over time, this passion developed into a business where he not only recycles but also cleans bins in the community. After school, children often lend a hand, creating a sense of unity and appreciation in the area. His hustle has become more than just a way to earn a living, it’s also about bringing people together around a shared goal.

While his business is still small, his ambitions stretch far beyond Soweto’s streets. He dreams of one day receiving funding to expand his efforts. His vision includes cleaning more bins across the township, planting trees to improve the environment, and eventually opening the area’s first recycling plant. This dream resonates with many locals who admire his determination and hope to see his goals become a reality.

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The timing of his video also carried extra weight, as he tagged MTN with their 'Youth Hustle Hub' campaign. The initiative encourages young people to post a 60-second pitch of their hustle for a chance to win R100,000 in support. By linking his journey to the campaign, he not only shared his inspiring story but also positioned himself for a chance to receive backing that could change his future.

Netizens reacted to the video

Roots Mashinini wrote:

"The Department of Environment must support this young man. 🙏"

shushaman15

“Low-key king, you guys make a huge change in this country.”

smni wrote:

"Waze wa muhle umsebenzi wakho, ufana nawe. 🥺"

Siphokazi Tshabalala wrote:

“I'm so proud of you, mgani wam. ❤️‍🩹🫶"

Audrey Caster wrote:

"Keep it up, my son, you will get it right in the Majestic name of Jesus Christ. 🙏🏼💕"

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Moiponekhoesha wrote:

"God blessed you, banza, love you, ngwanaka. 🥰"

Masampo wrote:

"Good job, well done, continue growing up, all the best."

Asa wrote:

"Awu mfana wama sunset. ❤️❤️❤️ All the best, you got this. ✨🌅"

Check out the TikTok video below:

3 other Briefly News stories about entrepreneurs

• An American salon astonished many with its colossal scale, factory-like efficiency and inspiring entrepreneur success story.
• A business content creator showed viewers where to find a factory selling affordable candies and sweets to entrepreneurs.
• A teenage entrepreneur from Hammanskraal went viral on TikTok by showcasing her hustle of owning rental rooms.

Source: Briefly News