Emirates Honors Johannesburg Teachers with Limited-Edition ‘Aircrafted’ Backpacks
Emirates has honored 100 teachers from Alexandra, Johannesburg, with exclusive, special-edition leather backpacks from the airline’s ‘Aircrafted by Emirates’ collection.
The repurposed bags, which were crafted using materials from Emirates’ iconic A380 and 777 aircraft, celebrate South African educators’ commitment to shaping the future generation. This gesture aligns with Emirates’ ongoing support for communities and educational initiatives worldwide.
Afzal Parambil, Emirates Regional Manager for Southern Africa, highlighted the importance of supporting local communities in Johannesburg since the airline’s first flight to the city in 1995.
“Education, much like travel, broadens the mind and brings value to society. Celebrating these shared values, we wanted to recognize the teachers in one of Johannesburg’s most under-resourced areas. We are proud to enrich the communities we serve,” said Parambil.
In commemoration of World Teachers’ Day, the Emirates team visited Carter Primary School and Gordon Primary School in Alexandra, where teachers received the premium cream leather backpacks.
Each handmade bag, crafted in Emirates’ Dubai Engineering facility, features materials upcycled from First Class cabin leather, symbolizing Emirates’ commitment to innovation and sustainability. Alongside the backpack, each educator received a luxe leather notebook, a tea tumbler, and a selection of premium teas.
The principal of Carter Primary School, Seemela, expressed gratitude for the recognition. “We often don’t receive acknowledgment for our dedication, especially in the communities we serve. Emirates has not only honored us but shown our students that hard work is recognized. This gift from Emirates serves as a beacon of inspiration for our students and our community.”
This initiative is part of Emirates’ broader community engagement through the Emirates Airline Foundation, which actively supports educational and developmental programs worldwide. In South Africa, Emirates aids projects like Singakwenza and Fikelela Children’s Centre, focusing on early childhood education and support for children affected by HIV/AIDS.
