Michelle’s Story
Michelle’s Story
Michelle was born on Bellevue Wine Estate and attended the Pebbles Project After-School Club on the farm. She speaks with warmth and gratitude about her time with Pebbles Project, particularly her experience in the Pebbles Project Youth Development Programme (YDP), which was facilitated by the social work team at the time. “Being part of the programme was truly unforgettable,” she reflects. “It helped me uncover my purpose, prepare for the future, and recognise the power I have in shaping my own journey. We were encouraged to set goals; and, more importantly, we were supported to believe we could achieve them.”
One of the Pebbles Project social workers had a lasting influence on Michelle’s life, she shares that: “She always motivated me. I remember her taking me by the hand and saying, ‘Michelle, you can’t give up now.’ She’s someone I truly look up to.”
Michelle had always dreamed of becoming a teacher, but after she finished high school, she began to question whether it was the right path for her. She says: “I was very uncertain. That’s when the Pebbles social workers encouraged me to take the PACE career assessment. The results helped me realise that I had a strong interest in the field of management.”
The Pebbles Project social work team accompanied Michelle to Boland College and supported her in submitting her application to study a diploma in Assistant Management. “During my first year, a Pebbles social worker helped me secure an internship at KWV and Hillebrand GORI.” Michelle went on to graduate and was later offered a permanent role as a Documentation Administrator at Hillebrand GORI, a company of DHL.
Michelle finds fulfilment in her work: “Every day brings new challenges that I look forward to take on. I enjoy communicating with clients from around the world. It’s exciting, and I learn something new every day.”
Michelle’s family couldn’t be more proud of how far she has come, and she’s proud of herself too: “When I think about where I started and where I am now, I feel incredibly grateful. People in my community often come to me for advice about studying, and I tell them it’s not just about education, it’s about perseverance and commitment. It’s not always easy, but your attitude can change everything.”
Michelle reflects: “Pebbles is a life-changing organisation. They make it their mission to support you in achieving your dreams. Pebbles had a massive impact on my life.”
Michelle is a shining example of what’s possible when support, resilience, and purpose come together. The Pebbles Project team is incredibly proud of all she has achieved, and continues to achieve, as a role model in her community.
*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.