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Student Success Stories

Mervin September

At the end of 2017, Mervin September graduated after completing his four year Electrical Engineering National Diploma at South Cape College (SCC) in Mossel Bay. Against all odds, Mervin...
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At the end of 2017, Mervin September graduated after completing his four year Electrical Engineering National Diploma at South Cape College (SCC) in Mossel Bay. Against all odds, Mervin enrolled himself to study at SCC and ensured he obtained a partial bursary as his then marks did not qualify him for a full bursary. Mervin hails from Greenvalley where he grew up in rather dire circumstances. This however, never stopped Mervin from persuing a better life for himself which is busy becoming a reality.

Back home in Green Valley his parents look on and speak of him with pride. Not only is he a hero in their eyes, but also of the community he hails from. His father does not have an income and when he does have a small job, his salary has to cover outstanding debt. Mervin’s mother, though she is sick, manages to put food on the table in their little makeshift shack which leaks when it rains. To add to the stress, extended family members have recently moved in with them. Once graduated and working, Mervin plans to help his mother by assisting them financially. If dedication and hard work is anything to go by, Mervin has the recipe for success!

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Leshwin Barnardo

Leshwin lives with his mother in a small community called Covie, situated near Natures Valley. His mother raised him and his four siblings as a single parent. This didn't stop him...
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Leshwin lives with his mother in a small community called Covie, situated near Natures Valley. His mother raised him and his four siblings as a single parent. This didn't stop him from giving his best. Leshwin was a member of the first rugby team, the first team tug of war and leader of the student council at school. BIA has supported Leshwin's training from the beginning because we saw a lot of potential in him. He has always had a nose for business, and as a young boy he started small business to earn money and help his mother.

Leshwin studied for three years at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth. He now has a National diploma in Business Management.

Congratulations, Leshwin!

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Renesha Van Wyk

Renesha commenced her tertiary studies at the Emmanuel Nursing College, situated in Oudtshoorn in 2017. She completed a 5 month “saalhulp” or ward assistant course. Once she has...
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Renesha commenced her tertiary studies at the Emmanuel Nursing College, situated in Oudtshoorn in 2017. She completed a 5 month “saalhulp” or ward assistant course. Once she has successfully completed this course, she will move on to commence her diploma in Nursing. Renesha grew up in Green Valley in a small home with her mother Annie and father Rico. Her parents separated at a very critical part of her development as a young person and although very painful for her, she completed her high school successfully.

Well done, Renesha, and all the best for your future in nursing!

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Chandre Plaatjies

Chandre grew up in Kurland Village in the Crags (about 20 km east of Plettenberg Bay). The family, her mother, stepfather and younger sister, live in a small RDP house (Rural Development...
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Chandre grew up in Kurland Village in the Crags (about 20 km east of Plettenberg Bay). The family, her mother, stepfather and younger sister, live in a small RDP house (Rural Development Program). The house is not very big and the family had no access to running water in the house. Chandre's parents run a small shop next to the house where they sell household products.Chandre is a leader of the choir.

After completing her high school at Wittedrift High, she went on to completing a three year Diploma in Educare through South Cape College in George. Since then she has commenced working at Crags Primary school. This has enabled her to qualify to continue her passion and study teaching Foundation Phase (Gr R- 3) through the University of South Africa, which is a distance learning program. While she is completing this program, she is an assistant teacher for Born in Africa at the Crags Primary. Good luck on finishing your studies through teaching, Chandre.
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Alexis Zeng

After graduating at Wittedrift High in 2015, Alexis applied to study nursing at university level, however was not accepted. This did not deter this young lady, who's passion it is to...
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After graduating at Wittedrift High in 2015, Alexis applied to study nursing at university level, however was not accepted. This did not deter this young lady, who's passion it is to take care of those in need. To keep her mind on the goal, she completed an 8 month training course in 2016 in "home based care" at Ukupela Training Centre. Her training comprised mostly of practical hourse where she worked at a local old age home. Well done on obtaining this diploma and good luck with your future in nursing!
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Nabrushca Williams

Nabrushca grew up in Kurland Village, The Crags. Financialy she and her family have always struggled which basically means that without external support, she would not have had the...
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Nabrushca grew up in Kurland Village, The Crags. Financialy she and her family have always struggled which basically means that without external support, she would not have had the opportunity to further her studies. Although nursing is a creer which she always wanted to persue, she attended the campus in Karatara to obtain a higher certificate in Office Administration. She used that year to work on her computers, mathematics and business language communication skills. In 2017 she got her own bursary and started her own way into furthering her studies. Good luch with everything you still want to achieve and well done for all your achievements so far!
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Angelo Bailey

Angelo is from Kranshoek where he was raised by his mother and father. He always loved the ocean his entire life and subsiquantly graduated as a Plettenberg Bay Life guard. Once he...
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Angelo is from Kranshoek where he was raised by his mother and father. He always loved the ocean his entire life and subsiquantly graduated as a Plettenberg Bay Life guard. Once he finished highschool at Plett Secondary he was not entirely sure which direction his life needs to go in. To streamline this, he enrolled at Tsiba Eden Campus where he completed a year of business administration and got his Higher Certificate. Well done!
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Cheston Pedro

Cheston lives in Kranshoek and was raised by his grandmother. He is a young man with a dream and a vision to succeed. After graduating from Plett Secondary school in 2015 Cheston...
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Cheston lives in Kranshoek and was raised by his grandmother. He is a young man with a dream and a vision to succeed. After graduating from Plett Secondary school in 2015 Cheston realised that he needed to streamline his computer skills and mathematics. For this reason he started studying at Tsiba Eden Campus, Karatara, in 2016 and successfully got his Higher certificate in Business Administration.
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Kabelo Modise

Not sure what career field he wants to follow, Kabelo decided to complete a year in business administration to brush up on his communication, mathematics, computers and life skills. The...
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Not sure what career field he wants to follow, Kabelo decided to complete a year in business administration to brush up on his communication, mathematics, computers and life skills. The one year course to obtain the Higher Certificate in Business Administration at Tsiba Eden Campus - Karatara was a great choice for Kabelo. This year offered him the nessesary guidance required to start looking for a job in 2017.

Kabelo lives in Kranshoek with his 4 siblings, mom and dad. His older brother, Katleho also studied through the Born in Africa program.
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Katleho Modise

Katleho has always been a young man with a vision. After he graduated from Plett Secondary, he was accepted at university level to study architecture. This did not harbor his passion to...
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Katleho has always been a young man with a vision. After he graduated from Plett Secondary, he was accepted at university level to study architecture. This did not harbor his passion to make a success of his life and not wanting to sit at home, he completed an 8 month hospitality course. After graduating, BIA continued to support Katleho and he started studying at Eastern Cape Training Centre in Port Elizabeth, where he obtained his diploma as an Electrician after a course of 10 months. Katleho is now ready to look for a job, good luck!
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Suleiman Kriga

Suleiman is a young man who grew up in Kurland Village, The Crags. He grew up in very tough circumstances, without his parents. Luckily his aunt took care of him. In 2016, Suleiman...
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Suleiman is a young man who grew up in Kurland Village, The Crags. He grew up in very tough circumstances, without his parents. Luckily his aunt took care of him. In 2016, Suleiman worked intensely on improving his business skills, computer skills and he is expanding his personal development. He studied a 1- year course at Tsaibe Eden Campus- Karatara for the Higher Certificate in Business Administration, which he completed successfully at the end of 2016.

Born in Africa takes pride in supporting students such as Suleiman, who want to make a positive difference in their lives.
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Suwaida Grootboom

Suwaida Grootboom hails from Kurland Village, The Crags. She completed her 3 year diploma at South Cape College in George in Educare. Her family is one of the original families who have...
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Suwaida Grootboom hails from Kurland Village, The Crags. She completed her 3 year diploma at South Cape College in George in Educare. Her family is one of the original families who have been living in the area with much cultural history and stories to share. They have also had many generations of poverty, yet have always been incredibly proud to move ahead and make a difference in future generations. She lives with her mother and extended family and has completed her practical training at her aunt’s chreche situated in Kurland Village. She currently works there taking care of children on a daily basis and teaching them very important development skills. Congratulations Suwaida on making a difference.
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Asanda Gigi

Asanda Gigi has been a part of the Born in Africa program since her primary school days when she was in Gr 5. She graduated from high school and after taking some time to decide which...
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Asanda Gigi has been a part of the Born in Africa program since her primary school days when she was in Gr 5. She graduated from high school and after taking some time to decide which career path to follow, she chose to enter the security industry. Asanda completed a 3- year course at South Cape College in Oudtshoorn where she studied a diploma in Safety in Society. This will enable her to enter the Police Training College in 2017 so she can fulfill her dream, to join the SAPS- South African Police Service. Asanda was 1st in her class for the last 3 years of her studies!
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Charne Majavie

Charné’s dream has always been to study physiotherapy. This is largely due to the fact that her younger sister, Ayesha Majavie, suffers from Spinal Bifida, as well as the fact that...
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Charné’s dream has always been to study physiotherapy. This is largely due to the fact that her younger sister, Ayesha Majavie, suffers from Spinal Bifida, as well as the fact that Charné has a passion to help people. Her dream has come true at the end of 2016 when she graduated from the Univesity of the Western Cape with her Honours degree in Physiotherapy. In January 2017 she started working as a physiotherapist in Humansdorp, Eastern Cape.

Click here to read the beautiful thank you letter she wrote when she left Born in Africa after graduating.
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Donnoline Aaron

Donnoline Aaron joined the BIA program when she was still a scholar at Kranshoek Primary in 2006. Raised by her parents Donovan and Elizabeth, she performed very well at primary school...
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Donnoline Aaron joined the BIA program when she was still a scholar at Kranshoek Primary in 2006. Raised by her parents Donovan and Elizabeth, she performed very well at primary school level both academically as well as on the sports field. She displayed tremendous independence and leadership during all the BIA activities which she so much enjoyed participating in.

She always strived to do her best and this was evident when she graduated from Wittedrift High. Donna as she is fondly known commenced her tertiary studies at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan university as a B Ed Foundation Phase teacher. We bid her farewell in 2016 and wish her all the best for the future! Born in Africa is very proud to have given Donna the opportunity to further her education and realise her dream of becoming a teacher.
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Siyasanga Tenge

Siya, as she is fondly known,studied at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth for a diploma in Human Resourse Management. She completed her diploma in 2015 and...
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Siya, as she is fondly known,studied at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth for a diploma in Human Resourse Management. She completed her diploma in 2015 and did her B Tech degree in HR in 2016.

Siya grew up in Plettenberg Bay and sadly her father passed away when she was a young girl. Her mother, a teacher, raised her and her young sister single handedly.

Siya is one of those students who makes things happen for herself. She applied to Born in Africa to enter the program herself and even spent a year volunteering for our organisation before she went to study.

Click here to read the beautiful thank you letter she wrote when she left Born in Africa after graduating
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Ruduwaan Myburgh

Ruduwaan completed his 4- year degree in 2016 at the University of the Western Cape as Bachelor in teaching. It is his dream to return to his community and teach at a school there. He...
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Ruduwaan completed his 4- year degree in 2016 at the University of the Western Cape as Bachelor in teaching. It is his dream to return to his community and teach at a school there. He also wants to inspire the youth in his community to step out of their comfort zone and reach for their dreams. Ruduwaan has always strived to achieve the highest academic level and he is a role model for many younger students in Kranshoek, his home town.

Click here to read the beautiful thank you letter he wrote when he left Born in Africa after graduating.
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Jo- Anne Seekoei

Jo-Anne grew up with tough circumstances. She was raised by her aunt as her mother was not in a position to take care of her. She attended Harkerville Primary and graduated at Plett...
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Jo-Anne grew up with tough circumstances. She was raised by her aunt as her mother was not in a position to take care of her. She attended Harkerville Primary and graduated at Plett Secondary school in 2014. Once she was commenced her tertiary studies at the Eden Hospitality Group in The Crags, it was evident that she belonged in the hotel/hospitality industry.

Jo-Anne started in 2015 with her three year diploma and finished the first year very successfully, In 2016 there has been some changes in her home situation which made her decide to stop studying and start working. This way she can take care of her family. This young lady is going places with her talent to work with people and Born in Africa is very proud to have been her sponsors.
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Merilene Hartley

Merilene Hartley joined the BIA program when she was in primary school, at Kranshoek Primary. She is one of 5 siblings, raised by Elizabeth as a single mother. Her father sadly past...
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Merilene Hartley joined the BIA program when she was in primary school, at Kranshoek Primary. She is one of 5 siblings, raised by Elizabeth as a single mother. Her father sadly past away when she was still in primary school. She completed her high school career at Plett Secondary in 2014.

She developed her love for the tourism industry when she was still high school student, with Tourism being one of her school subjects. Also during the holidays she worked as a waitress at a well known local resort in Plettenberg Bay.

Once graduated from high school, we enrolled her to complete an 8 month course through the Eden Hospitality group in the Crags. The course focussed on all aspects of the hospitality and tourism industry and exposed the students to various elements of working in restaurants, hotels, running functions and much more. The experience Merilene gained there motivated her next step. She was enrolled at the Future Flyers Academcy in Cape Town and completed her 2 month course in 2016. Since then Merilene is registered as a qualified Flight Attendant. She has also passed her learners licence and started undergoing training to obtain her drivers licence at the end of 2016. With all of this she was ready in 2017 to start looking for a job, good luck!
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Candy Gadebe Update

Candy Gadebe joined the BIA organisation when she was 14 years attending Harkerville Primary. Candy continued to complete her schooling at Wittedrift High and then graduated at Tsiba...
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Candy Gadebe joined the BIA organisation when she was 14 years attending Harkerville Primary. Candy continued to complete her schooling at Wittedrift High and then graduated at Tsiba Eden Campus with a higher certificate in Business Administration. She was awarded a full tertiary scholarship through Tsiba university in Cape Town and graduated in 2016 with a Bachelors in Business Administration. During her practical 6 month training at Alan Grey finance house she impressed them hugely and was offered a permanent position where she works today.

At the age of 13, when I had just moved to Plettenberg bay and to a new school, I was just a little girl with big dreams who didn’t worry on how she will achieve them but knew that she will get there.

My journey with Born in Africa began when one of the volunteers asked me what I wanted to be one day when I grow up; with some much bravery I looked at him and said “When I grow I want to be the minister of education”. That I believe had the other born in Africa members (which included Isabella and her dad) to gather around me and hear my story, there were probably intrigued by my dreams. Little did I know that this was going to be the beginning of a long fruitful journey?

Having been raised by a single mom of two kids then, there was little my mom could do for us. She saw the potential I had but could not afford to take me to one of the best high schools in town. It was through the help of my primary school principal and my best friend’s dad Mr Quick fall that I came to know about Born in Africa. He introduced me to them and after hearing of my dreams decided to sponsor my education.

I was taken to one of the best High schools called Wittedrift High school and Born in Africa funded everything from my books, uniform, school fees, bus fare and many more things I needed. I was at the time assigned to my God parents Luc and Agnes whom always made sure I had what I needed. They would send me money to buy clothes and birthday gifts. I regularly kept them informed about my progress at school by writing to them and by sending pictures of myself.

I was also assigned with a mentor through my High school years (Joyce at the time) who was always there to talk whenever I needed help and would advise me on issues I struggled with. She would monitor my progress, check up on me, do house visits, motivate me when I seemed to be losing focus and was always there to support me.

I also enjoyed the activities we got to do with the other born in Africa kids such as camps, beach outings, swimming lessons etc. this gave me a chance to meet the other kids in the program and have fun. It was a balance between them supporting me financially but also ensuring I have fun and get to bond with other kids.

I was never in need of anything as born in Africa provided me with anything I would ask. There was a time I struggled with a subject in school and they were able to assist me in getting a tutor to help me.

When I finished High school, Born in Africa was still willing to fund my further studies. They helped me apply to a few institutions and eventually I got accepted at the TSiBA Eden campus to study towards a bachelor’s degree in Business administration.

I had the privilege of meeting my Godparents on a few occasions over the years. They would take time off and spend their vacation with me. The laptop I use to this day was one of the many gifts they got me. It helped me a lot through my College years in doing assignments.

I also had the privilege of documenting (in a short video) my journey with Born in Africa for their 10th birthday celebration. It was such wonderful and fun experiences to be able reflect and share of how far Born in Africa brought me. It also gave me the courage to share my story with other young people through motivation speeches in schools of how BIA had contributed to my dreams and they too could make their dreams come true through hard work and determination.

For the past 4 years I have been in Cape Town finishing my studies. BIA ensured that they find me well suited accommodation and funded my rent, food and school fees. I never once again was in need of anything as they always provided when they can. My circle of Godparents at this time had grown because my cost of studies and accommodation was much higher, and I am truly grateful that they supported me throughout.

I also was able to do my learners license and license through the help of my God parents and even if I did not get the license itself I was grateful I got to learn how to drive

Belinda who became my mentor and a big sister to me over my tertiary school years was always a phone call away for anything I needed, she regularly checked in with me and requested that I give her feedback from time to time about my progress.

I am now done with my studies and will be graduating in August, my final results earned me a post in the merit list because I worked hard not only for myself but for the people that made it possible for me to be where I am today. I remember that during all my exam periods I will always remind myself that I am doing this for my family, myself and for BIA.

I am currently working at Allan Gray and grateful to have gotten a job straight out of varsity, not many of our young people have this opportunity and the few that get it have to make sure they work every hard to be successful.

I do not however believe that my journey with BIA has come to an end; I look at it as the beginning of another chapter. I now have the opportunity to give back and become a mentor another BIA student like myself. I also still want to be a motivational speaker and speak to the young women and men out there and tell them of my story.

Throughout my journey with Born in Africa I have come to learn to be grateful, even for the little you have. To also be grateful for the people that walk this journey of life with you, Born in Africa saw potential in me when I was a child and believed in my dreams. They invested so much in me and would always push me to try harder. There is nothing more motivating in life than having people who believe in yourself at times better than you believe in yourself.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the following people:

Isabelle: for the phenomenon woman that you are. You started this whole initiative and have made so many people’s dream come true. I can’t ever than you enough, but can only hope that our successes will be fulfilling to you. You inspire to wanting to do the same one day and keep you legacy alive. I hope I have made you proud. Thank you for the funds you continue to rise in making our dreams come true.

Belinda: For the shoulder to cry on, the time you spent listening to me for putting up with me when I became troublesome. You are a big sister in so many ways and a mom sometimes. Thank you for always making me believe in myself and advice.

Godparents: Although I rarely got to see you all. I am blessed enough to have had people who thought of me and wanted nothing but the best for me. Today I hope and pray I have made you all proud with what I have achieved. I intend on keeping you guys update still about my future successes in life because you guys are the foundation of what is and what is to come. I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart and wish you and your families many more blessings.

Born In Africa: Thank you! I AM BECAUSE YOU ARE.
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Mandy Mngomezulu

Mandy Mngomezulu joined the BIA program in 2009 when she was a Gr 8 scholar at Wittedrift High. She commenced her tertiary education at the University of the Western Cape and completed a...
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Mandy Mngomezulu joined the BIA program in 2009 when she was a Gr 8 scholar at Wittedrift High. She commenced her tertiary education at the University of the Western Cape and completed a 3 year BA degree majoring in Liguistics. Mandy was then awarded a scholarship to complete a yearlong post graduate diploma at Rhodes university in Journalism and Media studies. Shortly after she graduated she was scooped up by Media 24 where she is working for the magazine called Move as a journalist.

Mandy Mngomezulu joined the BIA program in 2009 when she was a Gr 8 scholar at Wittedrift High. She commenced her tertiary education at the University of the Western Cape and completed a 3 year BA degree majoring in Liguistics.

Mandy was then awarded a scholarship to complete a yearlong post graduate diploma at Rhodes university in Journalism and Media studies. Shortly after she graduated she was scooped up by Media 24 where she is working for the magazine called Move as a journalist.

THANK YOU BORN IN AFRICA

Time flies very quickly, as I am sitting here at my own desk in one of South Africa big Media Company I wonder where the time went. Just the other day I was writing thank you letters for my God parents but here I am today writing what could possibly be the last letter I ever write for Born in Africa. However, I sit here and write this letter looking back at my journey and I see the wonderful work Born in Africa and my God parents have done for me. Today I can say that I am who I am because BIA made me.

When I first joined BIA I was just a little girl who wanted to be given a chance to become great in life. Little did I know that my dreams would come true. My journey with BIA was a good one yet full of challenges. When I say challenges I look back at the times where I felt that I needed to do more to become better. This was not difficult at all because of the support and motivation that we got from the BIA staff in Plettenberg Bay. There is not a day where I visited the BIA office and left with a heavy heart. I always left the office with a big smile and joy in my heart, even though I was facing difficult times in my life I got new hope every time I went to the BIA office.

2012 I remember Belinda driving us to Cape Town for my first year at the University of the Western Cape. I was definitely nerves but having Belinda there helped me to keep calm and look forward to my tertiary life. Growing up without a mother and a father was not easy but today I look back and see everyone who became a parent to me at BIA.

At a very young age I had to learn to be responsible and I had to grow up fast. I had to realise and make a decision in my life to either feel sorry for myself because I do not have parents or I had to choose to make the most of my life. The best decision that I took was to acknowledge my potential and realise that there is more to life then feeling sorry for myself. My life is what I want it to be because of the opportunity I was given by BIA.

I am grateful of what BIA has done for me. There is not a day that I ever went to bed hungry when I was at university and it is because of BIA. There is not a day where I stood in long lines at university trying to sort out my registration. There is not a year where I could not get my results because my school fees were not paid. BIA made sure I had everything and because of them my experience at university was the best.

I am now in Johannesburg and I do not know where the future will take me. But I am hopeful that there are great and much bigger things ahead of me. I will be with Media 24 for a year and I want to stay here for some time to gain experience. Next year I am hoping to enrol at Wits University of a one year Masters course in Journalism. I am looking forward to that because I feel my experience here at Move Magazine will help me in a big way.

I would say so far so good. I am learning a lot and I have also published my article in Move Magazine. The people here are very friendly and they offer help when I need help. The first month has been good; I am looking forward to the rest of the year. I am happy that I am finally a journalist. I am looking forward to doing great things here in Johannesburg and back at home in Plettenberg Bay.

I do not regret taking the decision of leaving BIA this year to start working because I want BIA to see what they have done for me. They have made me stronger, passionate and BIA has shown me that dreams can come through if we put our minds to it. My dream is slowly but surely becoming a reality and thank you to BIA. I will never forget what you have done for me. I was blessed to have been part of the BIA Organisation.

THANK YOU BIA. THANK YOU TO MY GOD PARENTS.THANK YOU BIA STAFF you guys ROCK my world.

LOVE x

MANDY
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Shenise Stuurman

Shenise Stuurman hails from Kranshoek where she also commenced her schooling at Kranshoek Primary. She graduated from Plett Secondary and moved on to complete a three year diploma in...
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Shenise Stuurman hails from Kranshoek where she also commenced her schooling at Kranshoek Primary. She graduated from Plett Secondary and moved on to complete a three year diploma in Business Management at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in George. After graduating she finished a 1 year B Tech degree in Business Management [Cum Laude] at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth. She gained work experience by assisting the BIA administration dept in Plettenberg Bay and now works as an intern at the Bitou Municipality in the treasury department.
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Abygail Links

Abygail Links joined the BIA program in 2005! She was 15 at the time and looking back at all she has achieved since joining the BIA program, this too is a unique success story. Her...
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Abygail Links joined the BIA program in 2005! She was 15 at the time and looking back at all she has achieved since joining the BIA program, this too is a unique success story. Her grandmother raised her and she was one of 13 people living in a modest 4 bedroom wooden house, situated in rural Harkerville, outside Plettenberg Bay. Conditions for Aby while growing up were extreme. Unfortunately there was an extensive amount of alcohol abuse in her neighbourhood, but thanks to her BIA mentor she was able to overcome and deal with it. BIA gave her a clear understanding that she was not to blame, but that the system was floored.

She endured the long treks to school on foot no matter the weather and this showed her sheer determination which later on in life stood her in good stead.

Completing Gr 12 was such an achievement for her and this showed during her farewell where she was the belle of the ball just by the smile on her face.

Abygail has always loved cooking and entertaining and after school we enrolled her at South Cape College where she commenced a 3 year Hospitality diploma.

As life would have it complete with complications around each corner, Abygail fell pregnant during her 1st year of studies. This however did not deter her from attending classes which she did right until she gave birth to a healthy baby boy. Only 3 days after giving birth she was back in class and passed her first and second year with flying colours.

Once again an obstacle was placed in her path. Due to the lack of students the college decided not to proceed with the final year. Abygaile could not transfer to another college either as she had no one to look after her baby..

Subsequently Abygail has found employment in Plettenberg Bay so that she can be close to her son. She still lives in the wooden house with her grandmother, Aunt Griet and now is contributing to the household.

We are so proud of her!
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Ashby Prins

Ashby Prins joined the BIA program in 2004. She was one of the first students who entered our tertiary study bursary program. Ashby grew up in Kurland Village, The Crags and always...
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Ashby Prins joined the BIA program in 2004. She was one of the first students who entered our tertiary study bursary program. Ashby grew up in Kurland Village, The Crags and always aspired to be a fashion designer as she loved paging through the international glamour magazines. With continuous mentorship and academic support BIA assisted Ashby to complete a two year “bridging “course at Tsiba Eden where she acquired extensive knowledge of business administration. There, she also became involved with a “pay it forward” project called the Two passes initiative and her interaction there teaching young children reading and writing skills, sparked her interest in pursuing a career with children. Since then Ashby has moved back home and is currently working to support herself and completing a correspondence Gr R teaching course which she is excelling at. She also runs her own nail art business which is booming and of course this was sparked by her creative side. Well done to this remarkable young woman, who saw an opportunity and made it work for her.

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Berna-lee Ewerts

Thanks to the BIA program Berna-lee Evertse’s life has taken the right direction. This is how it all happened in her words. “In Dec 2006 I was doing a Life Skills course at my local...
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Thanks to the BIA program Berna-lee Evertse’s life has taken the right direction. This is how it all happened in her words. “In Dec 2006 I was doing a Life Skills course at my local community centre in Kranshoek, ‘Taking chances’ was one of the many aspects that we have learned throughout the course. A lady called Marita Harker who worked for Born in Africa, was also part of the life skills course that we did. A friend and I took a chance and approached her; we asked her about what BIA is about, what work they were doing. - And eventually we asked how we could become part of the program. She patiently explained the program to us-and to make a long story short my friend and I both officially became part of the BIA program in January 2007.

During the mentorship program I discovered a lot of things about myself, the environment I live in and the people around me. On a regular basis we went on educational camps, I met my godmother (sponsor) who supported me financially throughout my high school and tertiary education. It was a privilege being an ambassador for BIA, the people I met, lifelong friends I have made; will never be forgotten.

Wow, that is amazing and to end off, this is her advice to new and current BIA students:

• Enjoy your journey.

• Try to learn as much as you can.

• Teach someone else about what you have learned.

• Always do your best.

• Make use of every opportunity no matter how many times you fail – in the end it’s the experience that counts.

To BIA she wrote the following which is heartwarming not only to the BIA staff, but also to all our supporters: A very big thank you from the bottom of my heart, keep up the good work that you do in underprivileged communities. A lot of people are and forever will be grateful to you for reaching out a helping hand and uplifting spirits along the way.

Isabella and your wonderful team:

Xxx THANK YOU! And GOD BLESS! Xxx

Berna-lee Ewerts
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Brandon Le Fleur

It has always been Brandon’s dream to work in the construction sector which is why he studied a Diploma in Building at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth. He is a...
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It has always been Brandon’s dream to work in the construction sector which is why he studied a Diploma in Building at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth. He is a very talented young man and we hope for great things in his future. Brandon lives in Kranshoek with his parents and his 3 sisters.
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Clinton Brits

Clinton Brits was selected as a BIA student in 2005 when he was only 10 years old. Clinton has had to endure a very challenging life due to alcohol abuse by both his parents. This...
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Clinton Brits was selected as a BIA student in 2005 when he was only 10 years old. Clinton has had to endure a very challenging life due to alcohol abuse by both his parents. This never stood in his way of creating a better future for himself. School was tough for Clinton, yet he loved attending everyday and his good manners and friendly nature made him a favourite with the staff. He soldiered on to attend Denron training centre where he focussed on language and computer skills. Well done Clinton on reaching your goals, you are a true inspiration.

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Donovan Solomons

Donovan was thirteen years old when Isabelle selected him for the BIA program in 2003. He was a student at Harkerville Primary, which is a very small rural school situated in the forests...
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Donovan was thirteen years old when Isabelle selected him for the BIA program in 2003. He was a student at Harkerville Primary, which is a very small rural school situated in the forests of Harkerville. He was one of the first 40 children selected. Isabelle remembers visiting his home which was made from wooden planks and situated under the trees. There was no electricity, running water or ablution facilities and Donovan grew up very poor. He never knew his father and his mother struggled to feed their household. She had the odd job now and again, but was unemployed most of the time.

Their house was very barren, with no furniture, and Donny shared a bed with his mother. They used to cook outside on a fire and the only bit of entertainment they had was listening to a radio which ran of an old P9 battery. Inside the shack consisted of one room where the family slept.

After completing his primary school under such testing circumstances, Donny went on to high school at Plett Secondary where he obtained his Gr 12 diploma. After school he enrolled at South Cape College where he completed one year of Hospitality training.

He soon came to realise that he preferred the retail industry and it just so happened that Isabelle had a contact at one of the local sport shops. The owner was so impressed with Donny’s excellent people skills that he employed him immediately.

Donovan has been permanently employed at Plett Sports for two years now and is still going strong. He recently acquired his Code 10 drivers license, which enables him to drive heavy vehicles and will stand him in good stead in his future career. All of this happened thanks to his godparents and Born in Africa’s support.
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Edwill Mabie

Edwill Mabie, a true ambassador for the BIA program

Looking at Edwill’s somewhat gloomy history, one can only praise him for his success at this stage of his life. Born in Africa...
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Edwill Mabie, a true ambassador for the BIA program

Looking at Edwill’s somewhat gloomy history, one can only praise him for his success at this stage of his life. Born in Africa played a major part in his success story and this is why we would like to share with you.

He was one of the first children we took into the program in 2002 when he was only eight years old. At that stage he was in Gr 3 at Crags Primary school and living with his aunt and seven relatives. Both of his parents passed away when he was very young and he never had the opportunity to get to know them.

At school Edwill battled academically and was teased as a young boy by his peers. At home things were not ideal either with various social issues such as alcohol abuse and poverty which dominated his household. We noticed Edwill starting to fade into the background during group sessions and worked with him intensely to rectify these problems. He really enjoyed attending the BIA camps where a lot of healing took place. He loved his mentors and the group session and attended all the holiday programs as well. His eyes truly shined during the Fire Fighting project where he was giving “fire fighter” responsibilities. When he turned fourteen we enrolled him in Olympia skills school in George. This was done on the recommendation of the school psychologist who suggested that Edwill focus on “hands on education”. Every Sunday Edwill got a lift to Plettenberg Bay where he would catch the school bus to George and make the return trip on a Friday after school.

At Olympia he was granted the opportunity to learn about numerous careers such as tiling, bricklaying, auto mechanics and carpentry. Born in Africa supported his school career financially as well as extra mentoring. He specialised in Agriculture which he loved and truly has a talent for. He applied for a fourth year at the school where he focused on agriculture, and during this year he blossomed in such a way that he decided to make farming his career.

He completed his studies in December 2011. Sheer determination, his skills, and his love for animals were on his side and we are happy to report that Edwill is now employed at an organically run dairy farm in picturesque Geelhoutboom, at the foot of the Outeniqua hills (Georges).

He works for a salary, lives on the farm and is part of a team of twelve staff who oversee the organic dairy farm ensuring the wellbeing of 500 cows, overseeing the milking process and all of the logistics which go hand in hand with farming.

Edwill is a role model to the young Born in Africa children and his former school teachers still talk about his wonderful nature, his honesty, and eagerness to work. We at BIA look at Edwill and where he came from and what he has achieved and we can just learn from such a remarkable young man.
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Elicia Wiesie

Elicia Wiesie has been a part of the BIA for the past 8 years and it was such a pleasure to see this young lady grow and develop into the strong young woman she has become.

Faced with...
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Elicia Wiesie has been a part of the BIA for the past 8 years and it was such a pleasure to see this young lady grow and develop into the strong young woman she has become.

Faced with more adversities than one can imagine, she would have been destined for a meaningless future had she not been taken into our program. We offered her the necessary support to take on the challenges she faced which included a home where alcohol abuse has always been rife. She suffered mental and physical abuse her whole life from her mother and family.Attending our BIA group sessions she was taught how to overcome such adversities and we also taught her the necessary life skills to make a better life for herself.After she completed Gr. 12 she went on to Eden Campus where she achieved her certificate in business administration. BIA funded her studies and she qualified to do an additional year for a more advanced certificate.

This is a true success story as she is about to qualify with her Higher Certificate in business administration and from there she will enter the job market. We wish Elicia the best of luck for the future and may she achieve great success.
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Freddie Scheepers

Freddie Scheepers is a young man with the motivation to succeed and this is his story. He joined the organization in 2006. He comes from a severe impoverished family situation, yet has...
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Freddie Scheepers is a young man with the motivation to succeed and this is his story. He joined the organization in 2006. He comes from a severe impoverished family situation, yet has always had the motivation to rise above these circumstances. His dream was always to be able to provide for his family which includes his mother, two aunts and their families. His father abandoned the family, leaving Freddie as the man of the house from a very tender age.

When he graduated with an excellent report from Olympia school in 2010, he approached us with the wish to further his studies. Mr. Sandy Haddad from Haddad Tractors in George was very impressed with Freddie’s report and his eagerness to learn and took him on under his wing. Since he joined the company, Freddie has obtained his driver’s license and bought his own motor vehicle.

Freddie has become a role model for many of his peers in his community and they all look to him as the one who made it, which inspires them to do the same. We at Born in Africa have great faith that Freddie will go very far in life and this is proof that you create your own destiny and that with very little; you can go very far in life!
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Gino Luiters

Gino is a young man who lives with his mother and brother in Kranshoek. He comes from a family of six children. His mother is unemployed and suffers from a severe form of asthma, for...
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Gino is a young man who lives with his mother and brother in Kranshoek. He comes from a family of six children. His mother is unemployed and suffers from a severe form of asthma, for which she receives a small disability allowance. Of course this far too little for her to be able to feed her family, let alone pay the fees at a skills school like Olympia where he studied woodwork and agricultural engineering. Gino is bursting with talent and creativity and during the holidays he loves nothing more than collecting old pieces of wood to make tables, chairs and cabinets. He was a member of the student council at Olympia Skills School and was often referred to as the class representative because he communicates well. Born in Africa decided to sponsor his tuition, meals and accomodation so that he can find a job doing something he is passionate about now that he has completed his schooling.
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Henny Mintoor

Henny Mintoor is a young man with a tragic beginning, but a very happy ending for he is currently working, thanks to the efforts of Born in Africa. He joined the BIA program in 2005 as...
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Henny Mintoor is a young man with a tragic beginning, but a very happy ending for he is currently working, thanks to the efforts of Born in Africa. He joined the BIA program in 2005 as the godchild of Olympic god medalist Tia Hellebaut.

As a child he was teased by his fellow pupils in class. It was very difficult for Henny to follow the academic curriculum as he has a severe learning disability. Although the schooling system could not cater for him, BIA never gave up on Henny. We always viewed him as one of the team. When Henny turned 16, we searched for alternative education for him. The reason we were not able to do it sooner, was because Henny was too young to enter tertiary education.

He always wanted to work with his hands and enjoyed the outdoors very much. We enrolled Henny in a chainsaw operating course where after an intense training; he received his chainsaw operating license.

We recently bumped into Henny where he very proudly told us that he has found employment near his home and was really enjoying his job. What made his face light up was when he mentioned that now he is able to help his family. Well done Henny and we salute you!
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Juventis Van Tura

Juventis lives in Kurland Village, the Crags, with his parents and his sister Megan. His mother works three days a week as a maid and his father is unemployed. The Department of...
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Juventis lives in Kurland Village, the Crags, with his parents and his sister Megan. His mother works three days a week as a maid and his father is unemployed. The Department of Education of the Western Cape referred Juventis to the Van Hemlock vocational school. It is located in George about 100 km from Plettenberg Bay. Born in Africa supported this young man especially because of his technical abilities. He is also a very sporty guy and he plays football, rugby, tug of war and he loves dancing. He was also a youth leader at his church. In 2014 he finished his schooling and we are proud of what Juventis has achieved to this point. In 2015, he will start his own business with his father.

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Rechelle Kriga

This young lady comes from Kurland Village, the Crags. There she lives with her single mother and she has no contact with her biological father. She has an older sister who lives with...
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This young lady comes from Kurland Village, the Crags. There she lives with her single mother and she has no contact with her biological father. She has an older sister who lives with them and who is also a single mother. Her younger sister is in Crags Primary School. Her mother works as a weaver and makes goat wool coats. Rechelle performed very well in athletics, she was in the first team for netball and she was also a member of the student council. Born in Africa supported Rechelle's education where she specialized in Educare . Her dream is to work with small children and she is currently pursuing that dream. We are proud to have supported her dream to be a teacher and to have had her in the program.

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Samantha Ruiters

Samantha is a 1st year student at South Cape College in George, Southern Cape. She is following the 3 year Office Administration course as she is very interested in entering the...
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Samantha is a 1st year student at South Cape College in George, Southern Cape. She is following the 3 year Office Administration course as she is very interested in entering the business world once she has graduated. As a determined young lady, she took it in her own stride to apply, enrol, acquaint and book herself into campus. Once she was settled she let us know where and what she was studying. A student like Samantha we will support any day!

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Shavon Prins

Shavon Prins is a student hailing from Kurland Village in the Crags. She completed a year at the International Hotel School (Cape Town) in hospitality management. This has been her...
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Shavon Prins is a student hailing from Kurland Village in the Crags. She completed a year at the International Hotel School (Cape Town) in hospitality management. This has been her passion since she was a little girl, playing “hotel” at home. She was born to work with people and really enjoys the hospitality industry. Shavon admits that the difficult circumstances facing her sometimes threatened to overwhelm her, but she turned herself around by the time she reached her final year at school. She has been very dedicated to the BIA program and determined to make a success of her life.
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Shenise Stuurman

This letter is to everyone at Born in Africa, their sponsors, mentors and volunteers.

I don't know how will ever be able to thank you, but for now all I have is these words.

A few years...
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This letter is to everyone at Born in Africa, their sponsors, mentors and volunteers.

I don't know how will ever be able to thank you, but for now all I have is these words.

A few years ago, I was still in primary school and I got accepted into this program called Born In Africa and wondered what it was all about. I never in a million years could have dreamed that they would do all this for me. BIA helped me all through school with school uniform, stationery and mentorship classes and when I finished high school they sent me to university. I went to study a diploma in business management at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) Saasveld for three years and did very well. I got merit awards for all three years I attended the Saasveld campus and graduated with my diploma cum laude in April 2014.

Then I went to NMMU Port Elizabeth to my Bachelor of technology degree in business management and despite all the difficulties I experienced, I passed my degree cum laude and was identified as part of the top 15% achievers in my field of study. BIA paid for all my expenses while I attended the university for the four years. I am grateful for that the organisation did for me and I encourage all the students of BIA to do their best and make the organisation proud.

Thank you Born in Africa, your contribution to my life made a world of difference. I am a qualified and educated young lady and its all thank to you and our Heavenly Father.

All my love,
Shenise
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BIA Matrics

Here is a list of the BIA students who have passed matric. We are proud of their achievement!

2012 - Ivan Smith, Laetitia Snyman, Mandy Mngomezulu, Siyasanga Tenge.
2013 - Mercin...
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Here is a list of the BIA students who have passed matric. We are proud of their achievement!

2012 - Ivan Smith, Laetitia Snyman, Mandy Mngomezulu, Siyasanga Tenge.
2013 - Mercin September, Elano Cloete, Tarric Davids, Alberto Wilskut, Maroshaan Blaauw, Amorra Myburgh, Elicia Wiesie, Donnalene Aaron, Suwaida Grootboom, Chandre Plaatjies.

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Student Success Stories

Mervin September

Leshwin Barnardo

Renesha Van Wyk

Chandre Plaatjies

Alexis Zeng

Nabrushca Williams

Angelo Bailey

Cheston Pedro

Kabelo Modise

Katleho Modise

Suleiman Kriga

Suwaida Grootboom

Asanda Gigi

Charne Majavie

Donnoline Aaron

Siyasanga Tenge

Ruduwaan Myburgh

Jo- Anne Seekoei

Merilene Hartley

Candy Gadebe Update

Mandy Mngomezulu

Shenise Stuurman

Abygail Links

Ashby Prins

Berna-lee Ewerts

Brandon Le Fleur

Clinton Brits

Donovan Solomons

Edwill Mabie

Elicia Wiesie

Freddie Scheepers

Gino Luiters

Henny Mintoor

Juventis Van Tura

Rechelle Kriga

Samantha Ruiters

Shavon Prins

Shenise Stuurman

BIA Matrics