Damian’s Story
Damian’s Story
Damian grew up on Eikendal Wine Estate with his mother and two sisters. He attended the Pebbles Project After-School Club on the farm, where he participated in a variety of extracurricular activities. It was through the Pebbles Project School Enrichment Programme (SEP) that Damian discovered his passion for mathematics. Through one-on-one and small-group tutoring sessions, the SEP provides targeted maths support, helping learners strengthen key mathematical skills and build confidence in their abilities.
Damian’s natural talent for maths quickly became evident. He was named Top Maths Student by the Pebbles Project Maths Tutor after achieving an outstanding 99% on one of his tests.
While Damian had always dreamt of becoming a teacher, when it came time to choose his subjects in Grade 10, he chose to pursue a career in finance instead. The Pebbles Project social work team supported Damian through the process of applying to study Financial Management at Boland College. However, upon arrival, they were told that the course was already full. “They told me the person in front of me had taken the last spot in the course. I was so upset. Then I made the decision to enrol for the Diploma in Assistant Management instead,” Damian recalls.
Despite the initial disappointment, Damian persevered. A Pebbles Project social worker helped him secure an internship at KWV South Africa while he completed his studies. After he graduated, he was offered another internship, this time at Eikendal Wine Estate. Although his internship role was administrative in nature, Damian’s manager soon noticed his aptitude for numbers and invited him to assist in the finance department. It wasn’t long before he was officially appointed as a Creditors Clerk.
“I’m very proud of where I am today. I used to think that after finishing matric, I wouldn’t have the courage to study. But I decided to shift my focus and chase my dreams. I set a goal for myself, and I went for it. I believe it’s important to set goals and follow your dreams,” says Damian.
Now, Damian is passionate about giving back to his community. He mentors younger learners on the farm, assisting them with online study applications and encouraging them to pursue further education. “I always tell them the first two months will be tough, but just keep going, it gets easier. I want to help them get a foot in the door and not just sit at home without aspirations,” he explains.
When asked to reflect on the role that Pebbles Project has played in his life, Damian says: “When I try to explain to people what Pebbles has done for me, I always tell them that Pebbles changes lives. Pebbles came into my life, and I can honestly say they have changed it for the better.”
The Pebbles Project is very proud of Damian. His journey is a powerful reminder that perseverance, hard work, and the right support can lead to incredible success.
*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.