The story of Stacey-lee, another Lynedoch youth, begins with her deep connection to the Stellenbosch soil and shows how the right support can help a young person flourish.
Growing up
Stacey grew up on Compagniesdrift farm along Baden Powell Drive, and she remembers her childhood happily. She began her educational journey early at the Sustainability Institute crèche, before moving on to SPARK School for her senior primary years. There she received tuition, transport to and from school, nourishing meals, uniforms, extracurricular activities and socio-emotional support.
Finding her voice and her strength
While Stacey describes herself as shy at times, she is creative and curious and this helps her to step out of her comfort zone. She has already turned her talent for braiding hair into a part-time job, showing an early entrepreneurial spirit.
During her time at primary school and later at the Lynedoch Youth Hub Stacey says she learned the true meaning of gratitude. Today, she views herself as a “stronger version” of who she used to be, confident that she can achieve anything she puts her mind to.
For Stacey, the SI’s Youth Hub facilitators and fellow students provided her with a “shoulder to lean on” and is a place she knows she will always find support.
A vision for the future: Tourism and community
Stacey attended a number of workshops hosted by the Youth Hub and this is where she found out about the Pinotage Youth Development Academy (PYDA). With the assistance of Anilesa Kamo, Youth Hub facilitator, she applied for a place on the programme. The PYDA is committed to providing the training necessary for young people to develop skills not learned at school and that prepare them for a career in tourism.
When asked why she chose this option she said: “I got involved because I was jobless and didn’t have any clue of where I was going with my life. I thought to apply and just see what happens, and from there I would know where I’m heading with my life.” The programme has shown her what is possible and is enabling her to think further about her dreams and aspirations and how to make them come true.
Other than her career goals in tourism Stacey wants to be in service to her community. She dreams of giving back by delivering motivational speeches to young people, helping them stay off “dangerous streets” and find useful paths for their lives.
A heartfelt message
When asked what she would say to other young people who feel stuck or unsure, Stacey’s advice is filled with compassion: “I just want you to know that you are special and know that you are loved. Being stuck or unsure is normal, and it doesn’t mean you’ve failed”. She encourages others to start small and remember that every new skill begins with a single step.
We are so proud of Stacey-Lee for her resilience, her gratitude, and her commitment to helping her generation see the “brighter side” of life.