You can spot our people on any job site – instantly recognisable in their coverall with the KAEFER logo on their back, tools in hand, focused on the task ahead. It’s no different in Brazil: at KAEFER Teckma, workwear is more than just clothing, it’s a symbol of professionalism, purpose and pride.
But what happens when those coveralls have done their job? When the fabric fades and the stitching begins to fray? In Camaçari, Bahia, our team found a powerful answer – one that transforms old workwear into a source of income, empowerment and human connection.
A new thread in our ESG commitment
In May 2025, our colleagues at KAEFER Teckma launched a volunteer-driven initiative at our BRACELL project site in Camaçari that combined environmental awareness, income generation and community empowerment. Old coveralls were donated to Creche Esperança da Estiva, a community daycare centre located near our worksite.
Instead of ending up in landfill, however, those coveralls were given a new lease of life. Women from the local community, many of whom are in vulnerable situations, transformed the fabric into beautiful, handcrafted items, including handbags, phone holders, toiletry kits, sanitary pad pouches and much more besides. These products are now being sold to generate income for their families and support improvements at the daycare, such as providing nutritious meals, educational books, and upgrading the infrastructure.
This initiative is a natural extension of KAEFER’s ESG philosophy, which recognises that sustainability is not just about the environment, but also about people. From inclusive hiring programmes to education-focused campaigns and support for vulnerable groups, the company’s actions reflect a belief that true progress means leaving no one behind.
More than sewing – weaving lives together
The initiative, affectionately referred to as the ‘Patchwork quilt of stories’, quickly became more than just a sustainability project. It became a celebration of resilience, of coming together and of reimagining what is possible when people support each other.
Around 50 women received the donated materials directly, but the ripple effect extended far wider, touching over 200 people in the community. Each handcrafted piece carries with it not just fabric, but also dignity and pride, as well as representing a new chapter in someone’s life.
“Seeing KAEFER Teckma present in the community, creating real opportunities, shows that the company cares not only about the project itself, but also about the people around it. This initiative goes far beyond donating materials; it’s about generating dignity, creating opportunities, and leaving a legacy that will continue to transform lives even after the project ends.” Cecilma da Silva, Social Worker
Connected to the community
What made this initiative truly special was the emotional connection it sparked – not just for the community, but for our own colleagues who volunteered their time and hearts.
Ana Paulo, People & ESG Manager at KAEFER Teckma: “As a coloured woman from a modest background – the only one of six siblings to attend university – I was able to share my experience and the importance of believing in their dreams and those of their children. I am living proof that there are few limits for those who have courage and determination, and that every form of diversity can become a strength capable of breaking down barriers.”
Occupational Safety Engineer Laura Soares directly reconnected her with her roots. “Taking part in the ‘quilt of stories’ was a remarkable and rewarding experience that made me reconnect with my roots and recognise the path I have walked myself, full of struggle and determination.”
Welding inspector Valdilene Rodrigues was deeply moved by the life stories of the women she met, many of whom had overcome unimaginable challenges. “This experience made me realise how initiatives like this one empower women, promote social inclusion, and generate income. Furthermore, it emphasises the significance of community spaces that offer support to mothers and children in vulnerable situations.”
For the KAEFER Teckma team, this connection to the community isn’t unusual. Employees frequently volunteer their time to build and improve community spaces, participate in donation campaigns and support educational projects. The same hands that construct industrial infrastructure also help deliver chocolate eggs to children at Easter and upgrade facilities at women’s shelters.
A blueprint for the future
Since coveralls naturally wear out across all contracts, this project could be an initiative for others to follow. Rather than discarding old materials, they can be transformed into artisanal pieces that generate income, reinforce community ties and reflect our core values of sustainability, innovation and caring for people.
The project also serves as a reminder that ESG is also part of KAEFER Teckma’s core: it’s integrated into leadership development, inclusion efforts, and long-term partnerships. With programmes that promote diverse hiring, support young people through education and encourage employees to embody our KAEFER values, the team doesn’t just say it cares, it shows it.
Just as with the projects we deliver for our customers, every piece matters. Every stitch contributes to something greater. And when we come together – across teams, departments and communities – we’re not just building infrastructure. We’re building trust, opportunity and a better future, one thread at a time.
Note: Written by humans – with a little help from GenAI. This article combines human understanding and intelligent digital tools to bring KAEFER stories to life.