Renay’s Story
Renay’s Story
21-year-old Renay grew up in Simondium. When she entered primary school, her family relocated to Flenterskloof farm, where she attended the Pebbles Project After-School Club. Renay enjoyed her time at the After-School Club and the School Enrichment Programme (SEP) offered by Pebbles Project. She says, “It was nice when people came to read to us and tell us stories; it really had a great impact on my life.”
Renay fell pregnant at the age of sixteen. After giving birth to a baby girl, she was determined to return to school. After graduating from high school, the Pebbles Project Youth Development Programme (YDP) Manager and one of the Pebbles Project social workers visited Renay to inform her about an opportunity to study a course in Generic Management. Renay welcomed the opportunity with open arms. She says, “I am so grateful for the opportunity. I am ready to give it my all.”
Renay is currently completing a one-year Generic Management Certificate through Dyna Training. A prerequisite of the training is to complete a full-time practical internship. Renay was offered a one-year practical internship at Pebbles Project to assist with the YDP while she completes her studies. She is thrilled to be assisting the YDP. She says, “I love working with the young adults. I feel like I have a lot to offer them. We are around the same age, and I can relate to them on so many levels. I want to encourage them by sharing my journey and experiences.”
Several staff members at Pebbles Project inspired Renay to pursue her dreams. She says, “The Pebbles staff made me feel special and seen. There was a social worker from Pebbles who visited our farm. She always encouraged me to think about my future. She was always interested in hearing about my dreams…”
Renay still resides on Flenterskloof farm, where she lives with her mother, stepfather, brother, sister, and daughter. Her family is proud of her and all that she has accomplished. She says, “My mother wanted to jump through the roof when she heard that I got the chance to study and complete an internship at Pebbles.”
Renay’s daughter currently attends the Pebbles Project Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre on Flenterskloof farm. Renay is grateful to be an inspiration to her daughter and to other children on her farm. She says, “Some of the children have come up to me and said that they want to be like me. I remind them that they can’t just finish high school and wait for an opportunity to come knocking. They must do their part and be willing to give it their all.”
Renay’s dream is to complete her certificate and pursue further qualifications in management. The Pebbles Project team is confident that Renay will complete her certificate and continue to learn and grow during her internship. Renay has a bright future ahead of her. She is a fierce young woman who has overcome many challenges and is stronger because of it.
Renay says, “Pebbles means so much to me and to so many people from farming communities. Pebbles has managed to influence and change the lives of so many. There are so many people who are where they are today because of Pebbles’ belief in them. If you are willing to do your bit, Pebbles will meet you halfway.”
*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.