Claudia’s Story
Claudia’s Story
Claudia grew up on Bellevue Wine Estate in Stellenbosch. At the age of nine, she started to attend 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.”
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 have 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. 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.
*This story captures a period in the beneficiary’s journey during their involvement with Pebbles Project and reflects their circumstances at the time it was written.