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 Claudia, a farm worker's daughter now working in corporate. Read her story:
Claudia grew up on Bellevue Wine Estate, Stellenbosch. At the age of nine, she began attending the Pebbles Project After-School Club on the farm. She enjoyed the recreational activities offered by Pebbles Project as part of the School Enrichment Programme (SEP), especially netball. Claudia also fondly remembers the social excursions: “Pebbles always took us to places we had never been before. Visiting the Waterfront really stood out to me; we went out on a boat, and it was very exciting.”
Like many young people, Claudia wasn’t always sure what she wanted to do with her life. But the Pebbles Project social work team did everything they could to support her along the way. “I remember it clearly, after I finished writing my Matric exams, the social workers came to fetch me and took me to Boland College, where they helped me apply for a Diploma in Assistant Management,” she said.
Claudia is deeply grateful for the support she received from Pebbles Project: “Pebbles really did a lot for me, especially the social work team. They played a big role in my life. They helped me reach great heights, I don’t think I would have studied if Pebbles hadn’t come into my life.”
Claudia went on to graduate with two distinctions. “My family is very proud of me because I am the first person in my family to have come this far.”
Now 22 years old, Claudia is completing an internship at one of South Africa’s leading logistics companies, Hillebrand GORI, a company of DHL, where she works as a documentation controller. She particularly enjoys liaising with suppliers and managing documentation for international clients.
Claudia is proud of her achievements and thrilled at the idea that she might be inspiring others. “There are people who’ve told me they want to go back to university to make something of themselves because of what I’ve accomplished.”
Claudia says: “Pebbles is an incredible organisation. They change many people’s lives. They are always willing to help where they can, and they always try their best. I can say without a doubt that Pebbles is an organisation you can truly rely on.”
Claudia’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the support of Pebbles Project. From her early days at the After-School Club to earning her diploma and embarking on a successful career, Claudia continues to inspire others with her achievements. Her story stands as a beacon of hope for young people, proving that with the right guidance and determination, anything is possible.
Good news stories abound in the South African Winelands. The #wineforgood campaign, launched by wine.co.za in June 2016, is all about sharing these uplifting stories. We dedicate the month of April to our #wineforgood campaign each year, sharing a good news story every day. Join us in spreading the good news about South African wine. If you'd like to submit a story, please email editor@wine.co.za. For more stories, visit www.wineforgood.co.za.