As we move forward in implementing our 2024-2026 strategy at the Pinotage Youth Development Academy (PYDA), we are pleased to share meaningful progress across all programme areas. A strong sense of momentum and renewed energy shape the months ahead.
Graduates of 2024
In November 2024, we concluded the 2024 Wine Practitioner Course, with 45 of the 50 enrolled students graduating – once again achieving a 90% retention rate.
Each graduate completed both a two-week and a six-week work placement with one of 30 industry partners. These placements remain a cornerstone of our model, providing real-world experience that strengthens students' employability. We are pleased to report that all work placement partners expressed satisfaction with the students' preparedness and performance.
The results speak for themselves. By March 2025, 80% of the graduates were employed. Importantly, all graduates demonstrated the application of key personal development skills, including self-awareness, time management, communication, and leadership.
Class of 2025: Wine and tourism
In February 2025, we welcomed our new cohort of students: 40 Wine Practitioner students and, for the first time, 20 Tourism Practitioner students. Both groups were selected during our September to November 2024 recruitment period, during which we received around 500 applications.
Since starting, these students have completed orientation, participated in our annual student camp, and are now fully engaged in the core curriculum. Their first workplace learning experience will take place in mid-May.
The curriculum remains rich and industry-relevant. Wine Practitioner students do the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines, an Introduction to Oenology, and Introductory Sommelier training. Tourism students are enrolled in a Higher Certificate in Tourism Management. Both groups benefit from a structured personal development programme, grounded in emotional intelligence and complemented by psychosocial support, coaching, and mentoring.
At PYDA, we journey with youth toward personal and professional success. We're proud to walk alongside this incredible group as they take their first steps.
"We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future." - Franklin D. Roosevelt