Our Vision
Our Enactus Durham College project focuses on pioneering a sustainable recycling solution for single-use nitrile gloves, a significant waste stream in institutional settings such as hospitals, laboratories, and academic institutions. By harnessing innovative recycling and manufacturing techniques, we aim to divert discarded gloves from landfills and transform them into durable rubber shoe soles, thereby contributing to a circular economy.
The project begins with the collection and thorough sanitization of used nitrile gloves, which are then processed into crumb rubber. This rubber is combined with an eco-friendly natural rubber latex binder and essential additives to enhance flexibility, durability, and resilience. The material is molded into shoe soles through a compression process, yielding high-quality products suitable for footwear manufacturing. Each step of the process—from material collection to molding—is designed with sustainability and waste reduction at its core, enabling us to repurpose what would otherwise be a disposable item into a long-lasting product.
Through this project, we aim to establish a scalable model that can be adopted by other institutions facing similar waste challenges. Not only does this initiative tackle the environmental issue of single-use waste, but it also highlights the potential for innovative recycling to create valuable, everyday products. Our team is committed to refining this model, expanding our impact, and promoting sustainable waste management practices. This project exemplifies the Enactus vision of entrepreneurial action for social and environmental good, demonstrating how small steps can lead to transformative change.
Meet Our Innovators

Jonathan grant
Founder | Project Lead | (Program)
My name is Jonathan Grant, and I’m a 28-year-old Environmental Technology student at Durham College. I’m the team lead for the Second Sole Project, where I focus on promoting sustainability and innovative solutions. As a recovering addict, I’m committed to personal growth and building a meaningful future. My ultimate goal is to buy a plot of land and build a family home using the trees that stand on the property, combining sustainability with a lifelong dream. In my free time, I love playing video games, disc golf, and taking long walks with my dog, Rilee.
Expertise:
Environemental Technology and Mental Health

Sara Mercier-Priebe
Business Faculty - Faculty Advisor
Business Faculty
Expertise:
Business and Marketing

Tom King
Manufacturing - Team Member
Hello, my name is Tom King. I'm in the same environmental program as John which is how I was recruited. ​I have a strong passion for material science and waste management. My main skills are as in the lab with some manufacturing experience as well. I want to work in compliance and waste chemical testing, so a program to divert waste into something productive sounded like a great opportunity.
The challenge of helping design the system and procedures to process the materials seemed like a great use of my free time.
Expertise:
Environmental Technology and Metal Manufacturing

ADII
Student - Team Member
​My name is Sahil Mehra, and I’m a Cyber Security student passionate about making a positive impact. As an idea generator, I focus on advocating for sustainable and innovative solutions to benefit the environment. I aspire to build a future centered on eco-friendly practices and sustainable living. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, playing basketball, reading articles about technology and world affairs, and developing new skills.
Expertise:
Financial and Planning

JOsiah Chung
Graphic Designer
Josiah Chung is an accomplished web known for his creative flair and technical expertise. With a passion for crafting visually appealing and user-friendly websites, he brings innovative ideas to life. Josiah stays up-to-date with the latest design and technologies, ensuring that each project meets modern standards. In his spare, he enjoys exploring new design software and collaborating with fellow creatives to his skills.
Expertise:
Web Design, Branding, UX/UI
Connect:

Zahra Ansari
Graphic Designer
Zahra is passionate about using the language of design to communicate innovative ideas. As a graphic design student, they are always looking for ways to further their technical knowledge and challenge creativity. In their free time, Zahra enjoys consuming all forms of artistic media, from video games to abstract art.
Expertise:
Branding, Social Media

Haley
Environmental Technician
Haley is a driven environmental technology student who prioritizes sustainability in her everyday life. She applies this perspective, along with her technical skills and knowledge, to further Second Sole’s mission. In her free time Haley is a creative, often making mixed media pieces from reused materials.
Expertise:
Environmental Technology

Emma
Entrepreneur
I am a current DC student for entrepreneurship and small business program and am a business owner of a home Salon where I do both hair and makeup for clients. As well as I work for my family business creating custom apparel and engraving to local schools, clubs and teams around Durham and clarington area.
I am excited to join the team to give help from my current business experience and learn more from my peers.
Expertise:
Apparel