Ryan, 13, became rich by recycling cans: "I love what I do because I can help people in need"

A 13-year-old boy from Solihull, England, has become a local celebrity after amassing wealth through recycling aluminum cans and using the proceeds to support charitable causes. Ryan, who started collecting and selling cans at age 10, has since raised $24,000 and recycled 1.5 tons of aluminum. His efforts have led to the creation of a community initiative called We Can CIC, which encourages local businesses to send him their used cans so he can process them with his family before selling them to recycling plants. Ryan’s journey began three years ago when he was just 10 years old. He started collecting cans to sell and donate the money to charities. Over time, his project grew into a structured operation involving 200 local businesses that supply him with materials. The family received an industrial shredding machine to compress the cans into large metal bales, making transportation and storage more efficient. According to his father, the work requires up to 20 hours per week, which Ryan undertakes alongside his school schedule. In an interview with the BBC earlier this year, Ryan explained that he prefers playing video games with friends during his free time, but he finds fulfillment in helping others. “I love what I do because I can help people in need,” he said. “It feels great to give back to the community.” His motivation came from wanting to assist both people and the environment simultaneously. Since the pandemic, many recycling companies had gone on strike, creating a gap in waste management. This situation allowed Ryan and his family to step in and provide a solution while helping local businesses manage their aluminum waste. The income generated from the recycling business is used to support local charities such as food banks and direct assistance programs. These organizations also promote Ryan's initiative, creating a mutually beneficial relationship. His mother, Karima, told SWNS that they are proud of Ryan and want to see his project grow. She noted that currently, they recycle one ton of aluminum per month but believe they are capable of much more. Ryan continues to attend school and spends part of his free time doing what other teenagers might, playing with friends and studying, but he also manages his recycling enterprise. His long-term goal is to expand the business significantly and eventually run a larger recycling company. The family aims to increase the number of suppliers from the current 200 to thousands, further boosting their impact on the community and the environment. Ryan’s story has gained attention beyond his hometown, with media outlets highlighting his dedication and entrepreneurial spirit. His approach combines environmental responsibility with social contribution, setting an example for young people looking to make a difference. As his project continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how far his ambitions will take him.