Introduction:
On 21st March 2024, Year 9 and 8 students embarked on a field trip to Two Rivers Mall, located in Nairobi, Kenya. The purpose of the visit was to delve into the realm of work ethics and financial ethics studied inFinancial literacy and business ethics and sustainability studied in Global citizenship.The specific focus was on the impact of these practices on society, and the global economy. We left school at 8:30 and arrived at Two rivers development at 9:20. A representative of the establishment was on hand to welcome us and start our tour of the fun and educative projects of the development.This report outlines our observations and insights gained from the visit.
Activities
Ethical practices
students engaged in discussions with representatives from Two Rivers Development about the various regulations and restrictions imposed on businesses:Created by the government, specific regulations protect employees, consumers, and the public from businesses' actions and address issues such as workplace discrimination and product safety, environmental protection and sustainable waste management practicesThey learned about the importance of striking a balance between economic growth and environmental protection, considering the long-term implications on both the economy and society.
We explored the ethical considerations that companies must take into account in their dealings with customers, employees, communities, and the planet like integrity, transparency, social responsibility, accountability and sustainability. During our tour, we learned about the ethical principles governing Two Rivers Development, including fair treatment of employees, sustainable sourcing practices, and community engagement initiatives. We witnessed firsthand how the company prioritizes fair compensation to its employees and encourages further education and career development opportunities.Residents and shop owners at the mall shared with us how ethical the management treats them. The anchor of the mall, Carrefour hypermarket, emphasized its role as a key investor in the mall and its commitment to ethical business practices.
Students were encouraged to take up internship opportunities at Two Rivers Development, providingthem with valuable hands-on experience in the field of sustainable business practices.
Sustainable Goals (SDGs)
Gender equality
Our visit aligned with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Imagine a sanctuary within bustling spaces, a haven where the serene act of motherhood takes center stage. Enter the realm of the "Mother's Nest," a visionary concept designed in Two rivers with centum of amazement, accomplishment, and empowerment for women.
The Mother's Nest transcends mere functionality; it embodies a profound acknowledgment of the sacred bond between mother and child. Nestled within public venues, workplaces, and community hubs, this innovative space stands as a testament to inclusivity and support for breastfeeding mothers.This enriched the students educational experience by promoting empathy, critical thinking, and social awareness while empowering them to become advocates for positive change in their communities
Currently, Centum Real Estate, the company behind Two Rivers Development, has 43% of its workforce comprising women, with efforts underway to achieve a balanced gender representation of 50%
Waste water recycling
Welcome to the Aquatic Oasis, a marvel of modern engineering nestled amidst the landscape of Two Rivers. Prepare to be swept away on a journey into the heart of sustainability, where innovation and environmental stewardship converge in a spectacle that defies imagination.This is no ordinary wastewater recycling plant; it's a sanctuary where science fiction meets ecological reality.
The true magic lies within. As you venture deeper into the Aquatic Oasis, you're enveloped by a world of swirling vortices and shimmering pools, each one teeming with life. Here, waste water undergoes a miraculous transformation, emerging purified and revitalized.
The centerpiece of the Aquatic Oasis is the Nexus Chamber, a colossal underground structure pulsating with energy. Within its confines, cutting-edge technology orchestrates a ballet of filtration and purification, separating impurities from water molecules with unparalleled precision. It's a sight to behold, reminiscent of scenes from a sci-fi epic brought to life. It kept the students eyes glued to the floor as they peered into this mavel through the metal grills covering the underground structure.
The filtered water is then pumped to the mall for use in general cleaning, irrigation and use in washrooms and the process is repeated.
The students emerged from its depths, filled with a sense of wonder and possibility, eager to carry the torch of environmental stewardship into the world beyond. For in the Aquatic Oasis, they witnessed not just a wastewater recycling plant, but a testament to the power of human creativity to shape a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.
Renewable energy
In Two Rivers, the sun isn't just a distant star; it's a tangible source of power and inspiration.We were amazed of how the architectural marvel isn't just any mall; it's a testament to the city's commitment to harnessing the power of the sun in ways that few could have imagined. Here, the sun reigns supreme as the primary source of power, fueling the bustling mall with clean, renewable energy.The students' eyes widened with disbelief as they witness solar panels stretching across the rooftops, soaking up the sun's rays with an insatiable hunger. They watch in awe as sunlight is transformed into electricity, powering everything from the escalators to the lights that illuminate the shops.
But what truly astonished the students isn't just the fact that the development runs on solar power—it's the realization that this isn't the norm. In a world where fossil fuels still reign supreme, the idea of a major shopping center being powered primarily by the sun is nothing short of revolutionary.
As they explored the architectural mavel, the students couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and achievement. They're witnessing firsthand the fruits of a collective effort to embrace sustainable energy and reduce our dependence on finite resources. It's a moment that leaves them inspired and hopeful for the future.
as the students departed they carried with them not only memories of wonder and amazement but also a newfound appreciation for the power of innovation and the limitless potential of renewable energy
We left the development feeling inspired and eager to advocate for financial and business ethics in every development. Exclusive access to sustainable developments like the solar powered rooftop and an aerial view of the Two Rivers Development and the city left us hungry for innovation and open-minded global citizenship.
Conclusion:
Our visit to Two Rivers Mall provided us with valuable insights into the intersection of business ethics, financial ethics, and sustainable practices. We witnessed firsthand how Two Rivers Development embodies these principles in its operations while contributing positively to its communities and the environment. Through our exploration, students gained a deeper understanding of the importance of ethical entrepreneurship in building a more sustainable and equitable future.
Acknowledgments:
We extend our gratitude to Millennium Global school management for giving us the opportunity to visit the development and build on our ethical and sustainable knowledge. Two Rivers Development for hosting us and providing us with valuable insights into their sustainable practices and ethical principles. Thanks for coordinating this enriching learning experience in highlighting the importance of ethical entrepreneurship and sustainable business practices in creating a better world for all.
By Mr Cedric Ongeri (Global Citizenship & English Language Instructor)
