Bicycling Empowerment Network | Case Study – November 2024
Re-Cycle is proud to work in partnership with the Bicycling Empowerment Network (BEN) in South Africa, whose mission is to provide access to opportunities through bicycles, offering hope and a helping hand to those in need. Last week, Re-Cycle’s Director Charlotte Ward and Warehouse Manager Mark visited BEN in Cape Town to strengthen our partnership, ensure its responsible operation, and deliver additional training to their bicycle mechanics.
During the visit, Charlotte and Mark met Nuriya, a 36-year-old mother of two living in Kraaifontein, Cape Town. Eight years ago, Nuriya sought a way to support her family and decided to train as a bicycle mechanic. What began as a skill to provide for her children has since blossomed into a thriving small business. Today, Nuriyaoperates her bike sales from her garage, sourcing bicycles from BEN, who receives them from Re-Cycle.
Using platforms like Facebook Marketplace, she sells up to 10 bicycles a month to locals. This income is vital for feeding her children and sustaining her household. Her reach extends beyond Cape Town, as some of her buyers purchase in bulk—up to 10 bikes at a time—and transport them to neighboring countries, including Malawi.
Nuriya’s impact doesn’t stop there. She also gives back to her community by donating bicycles to those most in need. “It makes me feel good and gives something back to support others,” Nuriya shared. Her generosity provides affordable transportation to many, empowering individuals to access work, education, and essential services.
In Her Own Words
Nuriya shared her personal story in a heartfelt letter:
“Hi, my name is Nuriya.
I have been a recipient of the UK recycling bikes for +-6 years. It has helped me tremendously.
You see, I have ADHD and ADD. Put these two together, then you will know what a struggle school has been for me. My mom wasn’t by the means to get me the treatment I needed, so because of that, I couldn’t finish school, and because of that, work was hard to find.
What I actually want to say is that these bikes I’m receiving from BEN have changed my life.
This last few months was especially for my family, and because of these bikes I was able to say these words for the first time in my life: ‘Don’t worry fam, I’ve got you.’
And it’s all thanks to Re-Cycle and BEN.
I appreciate what you guys do for my family and I so much.
And when I do make some extra money, I give back to the needy by making or buying food.”
Nuriya’s journey is a testament to the power of bicycles to change lives, and her entrepreneurial spirit continues to uplift her community, one bike at a time.
