Shawarma for the soul: Get re-creative

From discarded door handles that are converted into colourful bangle holders, empty chocolate boxes that are transformed into photo frames and plastic milk bottles that are turned into cup holders, Viji Raju is a master of giving a makeover to what many would consider trash.

In fact the items she creates are not just useful, but pretty as well.

"Reuse is an attitude that needs to be nurtured within ourselves. We need to develop a healthy attitude to recycling. People believe that if you recycle, then either you are beinga miser or you cannot afford to buy new," says Raju who has made it her business - literally - to ensure that the carbon footprint that we leave on our planet by the sheer amountof waste we generate, is reduced ina creative way.

What began as a hobby for Dubai-based Raju has now grown into a small enterprise as well as a crusade of sorts. She recently participated in the ARTE fair - a fair for handmade accessories - at Dubai Festival City where all the items that she created out of ‘trash' sold like hot cakes.

Raju, who is currently on the lookout for a job, never misses a chance to educate others about the importance of reuse. "I participate in summer camps teaching children to be creative about stuff they usually throw away. Children are fast learners and tend to practise teachings in a positive fashion," she says.

Keen to take her eco-initiative forward, Raju dreams of finding her name in the Guinness Book of World Records by decorating a home entirely with used materials. "It is my dream project to beautify a residence in an eclectic fashion with second-hand bits and pieces. I am looking forward to getting a space very soon.

"But what I really wish for is that people respect the creativity of those who are trying to make a difference to the quality of life," says Raju.

Viji Raju can be contacted at vijiraju333@gmail.com