English Language Partners has been recognised for its approach to combining English language learning with sustainability, receiving a nomination for the Cultural Connection Award in the 2026 Tāmaki Makaurau Zero Waste Awards. The award celebrates culturally specific approaches that inspire communities to reduce waste.
In Auckland, learners regularly participate in Zero Waste initiatives through our close relationship with Auckland Council and community organisations. These activities include interactive workshops and visits to recycling and education centres, where learners practise their English while learning practical ways to live more sustainably.
On Thursday 6th August 2026, a group of teachers and learners proudly attended the award ceremony, held at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Eden Terrace, Auckland.
Representing English Language Partners were teachers Fatemeh (Auckland South Centre), Erika (North Shore and Auckland Central & West centres) and Selamawit (Auckland Central & West Centre).
They were accompanied by learners and Zero Waste Champions, Rafiq and Rama, who have been actively involved in zero waste initiatives through their English classes.
The evening celebrated the people, organisations and community groups across Auckland who are taking meaningful action to reduce waste, strengthen communities and create a more sustainable future.
The nomination was particularly meaningful as it recognised the work of our Auckland Zero Waste Coordinators and ESOL Teachers, and the way environmental learning can connect with language, culture and community.
Fatemeh said the nomination highlighted the unique opportunities teachers have to connect language learning with real-world issues.
"As ESOL teachers, we have the opportunity to bring real-life topics into our classrooms and create learning experiences that go beyond language. Through our Zero Waste activities, our learners have been able to develop their English while learning about recycling, reducing waste and making more sustainable choices in their everyday lives.
Our learners come from many different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, making these conversations especially valuable. They bring their own experiences, ideas and knowledge into the classroom, allowing us to learn from one another and explore different perspectives on sustainability.
For us, Zero Waste is not only about recycling. It is also about education, connection, participation, cultural understanding and caring for our environment and communities.
The evening was a wonderful reminder of what can be achieved when educators, community organisations and local organisations work together. We were inspired by the many nominees and winners across the different award categories and by the incredible work taking place throughout Auckland.
We would like to sincerely thank EcoMatters and Auckland Council for organising this inspiring event and creating a space where community achievements can be recognised and celebrated.
We would also like to acknowledge Phil Wilson, Chief Executive of Auckland Council, and thank him for his support and for recognising the important contribution of communities and organisations working towards a more sustainable Auckland.
A special thank you to the EcoFest community for the opportunities to connect, learn, share ideas and work together on environmental initiatives.
Being nominated for this award is something we are very proud of. More importantly, it reminds us that small actions can make a big difference when we work together."
Congratulations to everyone involved in this initiative, whose commitment continues to create meaningful learning experiences for learners across Auckland.
