ISY Service Learning
Trash to Fashion
Excitement thrummed through the Chinthes as they eagerly crowded the gym, curious for the next big ISY event celebrating Earth Day. For two weeks, students from grades 6 to 12 collaborated during Chinthe Communities. They were creating special outfits addressing environmental themes ranging from water pollution to single-use plastics. Yet, the twist was…only trash could be used.
As always, the Chinthes rose to the challenge and the ISY Trashion Show was a big hit! Although the materials were challenging, the students were very innovative and they worked hard. The outfits ranged from trailing gowns of sea animals made with used drawstrings and plastic bags to circus-themed tinsel outfits to umbrellas made of used cans. Initially, the models were nervous, but once they were on the stage, their confidence shone and they enjoyed the moment.
Here’s what some Chinthes thought:
Seunggi (audience member, grade 5 )
“It was a great opportunity to show our creativity and see how trash can be changed into artwork.”
Mathilde (model, grade 7)
“It was really fun to prepare for and take part in. It was a little scary because I was the first model on the catwalk, but in the end it was fun because the audience enjoyed the design.”
Kai (model, grade 7)
“I feel great and I’m really happy that our design was awarded 1st place, but I didn’t really do very much. The other members of the group did all the work.”
It is important to remember the purpose behind the event: celebrating Earth Day. It is a day to raise awareness about environmental issues. The amount of trash available for the outfits is a reminder to make more sustainable and eco-friendly choices in our daily lives.
Ms Rentia (faculty supervisor)
“I’m proud of everyone who took part. This was a community project full of fun but sending a strong message that everyone has a part to play in saving our planet.”
Nway Ei (audience member, grade 7)
“It was fun to prepare for it, and I felt proud when I saw our design on the catwalk. It was a cool event to promote environmental awareness.”
The Green Initiative service learning group worked hard, through careful research and planning, alongside Ms. Patty and Ms. Rentia to make this event a success. They were super excited and proud of the students and teachers who took part. The student organizers, Grace Oh (grade 11) and Leanna (grade 10), hope that this event will promote upcycling, proving that when trash and creativity meet, art and a pathway to a better future is created.
The International School Yangon
20 Shwe Taungyar Street
Bahan Township
Yangon, Myanmar
+95 (0) 9 880 441 040