Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
21 December 2023 | 10:16 a.m. CAT
1-min read

Picture: SA Tyre Recyclers

In an interview on Radio Islam International, Tshepo Sithole, one of the founders of Cubic 38, shared the inspiring story of their eco-friendly business that turns tyre waste into innovative products like shoe polish.

The journey began in 2017 at TUT in the residence called Muzinda during a school strike. Mzokona Maxase, Tshepo Sithole, and Fortune Hadebe, stumbled upon a tyre recycling factory with tons of waste carbon char. They found that once the oil and steel had been removed from recycled tyres, a residual solid, carbon char, remains.

This discovery sparked the idea of creating value and demand from this discarded tire waste.

They studied the sample of carbon char. Initially experimenting with coal and tire shine, the breakthrough came when they successfully developed a formula for shoe polish. Cubic 38 collaborated with TUT’s innovation department, the Red Bull Amaphiko Academy and Nelson Mandela University to refine their product, improve the prototype, and secure the right timing.

When questioned about the impact on the green economy, Sithole highlighted how Cubic 38’s products, including shoe polish and car shine, contribute to reducing tire waste in landfills. The company aims to expand its product line to include items like imprint ink and paint, demonstrating their commitment to growing sustainably.

Despite facing challenges in terms of infrastructure, including equipment and machinery, Cubic 38 has been outsourcing to established institutions that have supported them in innovation challenges and funding programs. The team is currently working towards obtaining their own equipment, improving Cubic 38’S stability and building strong relationships.

Looking to the future, Cubic 38 envisions its products being sold globally, promoting green practices worldwide. Their ultimate goal is to contribute significantly to environmental sustainability.

In a closing message, Sithole shared a powerful sentiment: “For the brave, nothing is difficult, and patience is the fruit of happiness if you know what you are working towards.”

Cubic 38’s journey from an idea sparked during a school strike to an eco-friendly enterprise is a testament to the power of innovation, determination, and the potential to turn challenges into opportunities. As they strive for global recognition, their story serves as inspiration for young entrepreneurs facing similar predicaments.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Habib Bobat.