Pebbles Project is a non-profit organisation in Stellenbosch that enriches the lives of disadvantaged farm children and families through education. Operating throughout the Western Cape, they have changed the lives of many vulnerable people. One of these people is Andrea, a young barista at Bootlegger. Read her story:
At 24 years old, Andrea is an inspiring example of resilience. Born on Houmoed Farm in Stellenbosch, Andrea is the eldest of three sisters. From a young age, she attended the Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centre on Villiera Wines, and as she progressed to primary school, she joined the Pebbles After-School Club on the farm.
Some of Andrea’s fondest memories are from the outings she attended as part of the Pebbles School Enrichment Programme (SEP). “I loved visiting exciting places that I wouldn’t normally have the opportunity to see,” she recalls. Trips to Table Mountain, the Two Oceans Aquarium, and a rollercoaster park in Cape Town sparked her curiosity and gave her experiences that would stay with her forever. She also valued the support she received with her schoolwork, particularly in mathematics and computer literacy, which helped her build confidence and develop skills she continues to draw on today.
Andrea’s time at Pebbles took on a new dimension when she joined the Pebbles Youth Development Programme (YDP) after completing high school. With guidance from the YDP team, she registered for the National Certificate in Education and Development, specialising in Early Childhood Development, at Boland College, and successfully applied for a bursary. She eventually decided to step away from the course due to challenges with re-writing her modules.
For a period, Andrea focused on finding her next step. It was during this time that the YDP manager introduced her to a new opportunity at Pebbles Project: a three-day Bootlegger barista training course in Cape Town, offered through Espressco. She eagerly joined the course and quickly discovered her talent for working in the hospitality field. Her skills and dedication did not go unnoticed by the YDP team.
Shortly thereafter, Andrea completed a two-month volunteer placement as the Clouds Hospitality Pod assistant at Pebbles, where her commitment and enthusiasm truly stood out. She was subsequently offered a six-month work experience contract in the same role.
The Clouds Hospitality Pod is based at the Pebbles head office on Villiera Wines in Stellenbosch and forms part of the YDP. The Pod is a small hub which provides young adults with hands-on experience in barista skills, shopkeeping, and food preparation. Andrea thrives in this role: “It feels surreal. I never imagined that I would become a barista! I am enjoying it so much.” She loves working behind the coffee machine and preparing meals.
The YDP team assisted Andrea in writing a professional CV, and we are delighted to share that, after she delivered her CV to several local establishments in Stellenbosch, Andrea secured a position as a barista at Bootlegger Coffee Company. Andrea’s family beams with pride at her achievements, and she takes joy in contributing financially to her household. She believes that her journey will inspire others in her community to overcome setbacks and continue believing in themselves.
Reflecting on her journey, Andrea shares: “Pebbles has had a big impact on my life. They helped me so much, especially by supporting me to complete the barista course. Pebbles helps people to escape their circumstances and follow their dreams.”
The connection with Pebbles continues to enrich her family life: her son now attends a Pebbles ECD Centre, and Andrea finds it reassuring to know he is cared for while she is at work and in such good hands. The Pebbles Project team is immensely proud of Andrea’s courage, perseverance, and growth. We know that she will continue to inspire those around her while pursuing her dreams.