Van Eeden was recognised for her work in developing new sustainable methods of brick-making in the Soshanguve township in Gauteng, proving that brick-making can be both technically sustainable and deliver a social contribution to community-making.
The Next Generation category for students and professionals up to 30 years of age has become increasingly popular. The category seeks visionary projects and bold ideas, and gives young professionals public exposure and a platform to achieve recognition. For the first time in the history of the LafargeHolcim Awards, more projects were submitted in the Next Generation category than in the main category.
Van Eeden’s project Brick-Works is based on an analysis of unsustainable practices in the production of fired bricks, proposing a set of principles to improve the viable operation of the brick-making industry. Brick-Works offers a sensitive, bottom-up approach to community development through sustainable industry.
“Lafarge South Africa congratulates Heidi van Eeden on this remarkable achievement. At Lafarge, it is important for us as a company to identify and foster innovation through young and upcoming entrepreneurs in our communities,” says Nompilo Morafo, country head: corporate affairs, communications and sustainable development for Lafarge South Africa.
