On Sunday, 25 October 2026, Unity of Migrant Workers (UMW) held another family workshop as part of the Hackney ReUse Lab project, supported by the North London Community Fund.
Children and families came together at UMW’s Stoke Newington centre for an afternoon of creativity, learning and reuse. Using everyday materials such as toilet rolls, egg cartons, cardboard, paper and other clean reusable items, children transformed materials that might otherwise have been thrown away into colourful characters, animals, decorations and imaginative creations.
The workshop was led by artist Serap Bağdatlı (@ekin_art_workshop), who supported children to explore their own ideas and turn simple household materials into unique pieces.
Throughout the session, children experimented with colour, texture and different materials while parents and volunteers joined in and supported the creative process.
The activity was not only about making crafts. Through practical, hands-on activities, families also explored the idea that many everyday items can be reused before being thrown away, helping children develop an early understanding of waste reduction, recycling and more sustainable habits.
Hackney ReUse Lab brings families together through regular practical workshops focused on reuse, recycling and waste prevention. The project aims to make environmental learning accessible, enjoyable and relevant to everyday family life.
UMW would like to thank all the children, parents, volunteers and supporters who took part, and a special thank you to Serap Bağdatlı / @ekin_art_workshop for leading the creative session.
Hackney ReUse Lab is delivered by Unity of Migrant Workers with support from the North London Community Fund.