What started as a deep appreciation for South African wine has grown into a long-standing commitment to social development, connecting two continents through compassion, vision, and shared humanity. For over two decades, Thomas and Stefanie Curry, founders of Curry Wines / Suedafrika-Weinversand, have been among the leading importers of South African wines in Europe. But behind every bottle they sell lies a bigger story: a quiet revolution that transforms wine into hope.
Lebenslinien: More than a passion project
In 2005, the Currys established the non-profit organisation Lebenslinien e.V. to support community-based projects in South Africa focused on nutrition, education, and empowerment. The foundation is not funded by wineries themselves, but indirectly – through the growing community of European wine lovers who are touched by the stories behind the wines and choose to give something back.
A muffin a day: 10 000 reasons to believe
At the heart of Lebenslinien's work is the Magic Muffin Project – the foundation’s oldest and most recognisable initiative. Each week, around 10 000 nutrient-rich muffins are freshly baked and distributed to crèches, primary schools, and elderly homes across the region between Somerset West, Strand, and Grabouw.
These aren't just any muffins – they are fortified with Moringa and essential vitamins, designed to nourish and energise. For many children, it’s their only proper meal of the day. For elderly recipients, it’s a gesture of care. For the women who bake them, it's meaningful employment, skill development, and pride.
The bakery is situated in Strand at Dr Joubert Primary School, right where some of the recipients are, creating immediate impact while fostering a sense of community and involvement within the school.
"Most of the support we receive comes directly from our wine customers – people who, inspired by the story behind the wine, choose to give back," Thomas says.
More than muffins: Fast 11 and Eagle’s Nest
But Lebenslinien’s mission goes far beyond nutrition.
In Lwandle, the Fast 11 project offers a safe and inspiring space for youth to grow, express themselves, and gain confidence. It’s more than a youth program – it’s a launchpad for potential, designed to give teenagers the support, structure, and attention they need to shape their future.
Another important initiative is Eagle's Nest – a crèche and Community Center in Grabouw. Here, care, education, and emotional support come together to provide a foundation for healing and growth. It’s a place where children are seen, heard, and given the chance to dream beyond their circumstances.
The connecting power of wine
For Thomas and Stefanie Curry, South African wine has always been more than a product – it’s a bridge between cultures and communities. Every bottle carries with it the story of the Cape’s soil, its people, and its potential. And every glass enjoyed abroad extends that story further – bringing opportunity, nourishment, and joy to those who need it most.
A warm welcome in Strand
Visitors are warmly invited to stop by the Magic Muffin bakery in Strand. Please just drop a mail at stefanie.curry@lebenslinien-ev.de, and we will make a plan.
It's a small, humble space where women from the community bake every batch with love, purpose, and care. The aroma of freshly baked muffins fills the air – along with the quiet but powerful sense that change is possible, and happening, one muffin at a time.
Wine with purpose
Through Suedafrika-Weinversand and Lebenslinien e.V., South African wine becomes more than a fine product – it becomes a vehicle for good. It shows how something as simple as a shared love for wine can grow into a movement that spans continents and transforms lives.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a traveller to the Cape, or someone who simply believes in meaningful impact – you’re invited to be part of the story.