Circular Impact: How a Stocktake Turned into a Zero-Waste, Student-Led Packaging Project

After running our initial Zero Waste Gift Pack trial with people of all abilities, we casually shared a few behind-the-scenes updates on social media. We never expected it would spark something bigger — but that’s often how our purpose-led journey unfolds at Deals Colony.

The Move That Sparked a New Trial

While relocating from our cozy base in Carseldine to a much larger space in Cashmere, we found ourselves surrounded by chaos — boxes, stocktaking sheets, and a growing to-do list. Amidst managing our passion-led retail and community initiatives, we needed an extra hand.

Instead of outsourcing to a regular agency, we stuck to our mission — create opportunities with purpose.

That’s when we connected with a few university students looking for some paid work. Over a few chats and chai breaks, we learned they had a real interest in gaining hands-on experience. One student even dreamed of launching a lunchbox delivery service someday.

We saw a perfect opportunity to design a new zero waste packaging trial, shaped entirely by purpose.

What They Did

At the time, our eBay sales were steady, and we had good demand for products like Lazy Susans and high-stock inventory. With some light structure and guidance, we invited the students to:

✅ Quality check and sort stock

✅ Reuse leftover cartons and packing materials

✅ Carefully package items with intention and care

✅ Add a small surprise gift to delight customers

Their work not only contributed to reducing waste, but also added joy and personal connection to every parcel.

Skills They Gained

While the students didn’t go on to launch their own micro-business, the experience helped them validate their ideas and gain clarity on what’s realistic — all without investing heaps of time or money.

They walked away with:

• 📦 Logistics & inventory handling skills

• 🧠 Confidence through purpose-driven work

• 🧩 Real-world problem-solving experience

• 🌱 A deeper understanding of customer-first business practices

• 🎯 Resume-worthy, genuine work experience

• 💡 A clear sense of how passion can evolve into purpose — or pivot if needed

And yes — we even supported their trial run of a lunch/dinner box delivery, ordering from them and helping them learn by doing.

What We Learned

For us at Deals Colony, this trial was yet another proof point that a little structure + a lot of heart can turn leftover packing materials into livelihoods — and short-term jobs into long-term confidence.

We also saw firsthand how important it is to let young people test their ideas in safe, supportive spaces. It builds clarity, not just careers.

Our Circular Vision: Resources, Skills & Stories

At Deals Colony, we’re not just recycling packaging — we’re building a circular model that connects:

♻️ Resources — unused stock, packing waste

💡 Skills — through purposeful project roles

📖 Stories — that make every step meaningful

This is just one of many trial projects we’ve launched. In upcoming blogs, we’ll share how this evolved into student-led purpose projects, internships, and even fundraising campaigns.

🤝 Ready to Partner with Purpose?

We’re currently seeking:

• Organisations who want to co-create purpose-led packaging, gifting, or retail projects

• Employers looking to build youth employment or social impact internships

• Councils, incubators, and funders aligned with zero waste, student development, or creative reuse

Deals Colony brings:

✨ Community-led case studies

✨ Real-world outcomes

✨ Proven frameworks that scale passion into income and impact

If you’re working on something meaningful and wondering how to take the next step — we’d love to help.

📩 Let’s talk.

📲 Follow Deals Colony on LinkedIn for more real stories and social impact updates.