Corporate and Social Responsibility

This is more than a story of renewable energy, it’s a testament to upliftment, community, youth empowerment, and hope.

At DCMI, Corporate Social Responsibility isn’t just a policy—it’s the compass guiding our mission. Our work extends beyond infrastructure development and construction; we strive to develop and construct better lives and stronger more resilient communities.

That ethos came to life when our founder, Peri Zagaretos, partnered with The Ridge School’s Grade 7 Leadership Project and the Soweto Canoe and Recreation Club (SCARC) to donate 50 solar kits. The goal? To bring immediate and meaningful change to households where electricity is a daily uncertainty.

In a nation grappling with frequent power outages, this initiative provided more than just electricity. It delivered light in every sense—transforming homes into safer, more functional environments. Many SCARC families face daily power insecurity. These solar kits offer clean, consistent energy, improving safety, learning conditions, and overall quality of life.

Young Leaders, Lasting Impact

This contribution formed part of The Ridge School’s leadership initiative—instilling a service-oriented mindset in its learners. Working alongside Mr. Zagaretos, students identified pressing needs in the broader community, ultimately selecting SCARC as a recipient—a choice grounded in shared values of empowerment through sport and education.

The students didn’t merely donate—they got involved. Together with Mr. Zagaretos, they physically inspected and prepared each solar unit, ensuring accessibility for all, regardless of technical literacy. This hands-on approach echoed a deeper commitment to responsible giving.

Meet SCARC: Beyond the Paddle

SCARC uses canoeing as more than sport—it’s a vessel for transformation. The organisation is a launchpad for leadership, education, and life skills, equipping young people to overcome social barriers and envision brighter futures.

SCARC’s work dovetails perfectly with DCMI’s vision: investing in people and fostering environments where the next generation can thrive. Supporting SCARC is an investment in social equity, safer homes, and sustainable futures.

From Candles to Clean Power: Real-World Impact

Our involvement helped provide clean, renewable energy to homes where children now have light to study by and families no longer need to rely on candles or unsafe power alternatives. It’s a small change with a huge ripple effect.

This initiative underscores DCMI’s ongoing commitment to:

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
  • We brought renewable solar solutions to homes without dependable power, creating safer, greener alternatives to hazardous energy sources. 
• SDG 4: Quality Education
  • The lighting enables SCARC learners to study after sunset. Additionally, Ridge School students gained real-world experience in project execution and civic engagement. 
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
  • We helped close the energy gap for marginalized communities, enabling more equitable participation in society.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
  • Safer lighting reduces fire risks, promoting healthier, more secure neighbourhoods 
• SDG 13: Climate Action
  • By replacing fossil-fuel-based lighting, we’ve taken tangible steps to cut emissions and promote eco-conscious living.
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
  • This effort reflects what’s possible when schools, businesses, and non-profits unite with shared purpose. 

At DCMI, we remain steadfast in our commitment to initiatives that elevate communities, safeguard our planet, and shape a fairer world. Because our mission isn’t only to develop and construct infrastructure—it’s to help develop and construct a better tomorrow.

“Real transformation begins when communities, schools, and enterprises unite behind a common goal. We’re honoured to be part of a project that brings both immediate benefit and long-term opportunity” — Peri Zagaretos, Founder of DCMI