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, we've been changing lives for 20 years. As part of our #wineforgood initiative, we often share the stories of beneficiaries who we have supported from infancy right through to adolescence. Today, they're self-sufficient and confident young adults who are ready to take on the world! Today we share Denno's story:
Ashley, aged 22, grew up on Koopmanskloof Winery. He has three siblings: two older sisters and a younger brother. His early years were enriched by his community, attending the Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre on the farm as a baby and later joining the Pebbles Project After-School Club at age six.
One of Ashley’s cherished memories from this time was when the After-School Club was transformed into a makeshift music studio. Ashley recalls: "There were musical instruments for us to play. It was so much fun! I tried playing the drums, and I have fond memories of my friends playing together like a real band."
Ashley developed a passion for basketball in high school, often spending weekends on the court with friends. Unsure of his career path after high school, Ashley found clarity when his mother reached out to the Pebbles Project Early Adulthood (EAP) programme manager. With her support, Ashley secured a bursary to study towards a diploma in Business Administration at Boland College.
As a requirement of the Business Administration diploma, Ashley needs to complete 18 months’ worth of practical hours. Ashley is currently completing an 18-month practical internship at the Pebbles Project head office in Stellenbosch under the guidance of the administration manager.
Ashley speaks highly of his internship experience, emphasizing the camaraderie among Pebbles staff: "Everyone gets along so well, which I really love. I doubt I’d fit in as comfortably anywhere else." He feels that the internship is enhancing his professional skills, particularly his ability to multitask.
Reflecting on his journey, Ashley credits Pebbles Project for transforming his life: "My family and even my school friends are surprised by how things have turned out for me. I wasn’t always the ‘good boy’ in class, but now I’m studying and thriving in my internship."
When asked about his plans for the future, Ashley aims to complete his diploma next year and says that, "I would love to stay on at Pebbles if an opportunity were to present itself and possibly explore further studies in Human Resources while pursuing my love for basketball."
During his internship, Ashley's appreciation for Pebbles Project has deepened. "As a child, I didn’t fully grasp the extent of Pebbles’ support. Witnessing their work first-hand has opened my eyes to the impact that they have on farming communities," Ashley says.
We eagerly anticipate Ashley's future endeavours and the contributions he will make to Pebbles Project and beyond.