Born in 2004, Beyonce grew up in Magnolia, Paarl East, a community facing its share of challenges. Like many young people in high-risk areas having to navigate obstacles, which can sometimes make it difficult to envision a clear path forward, Beyonce matriculated from New Orleans Secondary School in 2021. Matriculating without funds to support tertiary education, young people in poverty-stricken areas often feel a sense of uncertainty about the future.
Luckily for Beyonce, she joined the Elevation Programme, a beneficiary of the Val de Vie Foundation, with her friends in 2023. This decision proved a turning point in her life, like many others who go through the programme. The Elevation Programme became a catalyst for personal growth, providing her with the tools and support needed to help her discover her strengths, passions and aspirations. She began to articulate her goals and desires for the first time, gaining a newfound sense of clarity and direction.
A key component of the Elevation Programme’s impact is its Work Readiness Programme. This comprehensive programme offers invaluable guidance, including personalised career assessments that help young people understand their interests and aptitudes. This programme empowered Beyonce to make informed decisions about her future career. She gained practical skills and knowledge that boosted her confidence to enter the workforce, which can be quite daunting for any young person.
Organisations such as the Elevation Programme play a vital role in communities like Magnolia, where young people face numerous challenges.
“I have been fortunate enough to secure a permanent position as a sales associate at SportScene, located in Lady Grey Street, since November 2023,” Beyonce said. Although her current role differs from her long-term career goals of acting and working in the fashion industry, it is still a step in the right direction, as she allows her creativity to take the lead when assisting customers with styling and fashion advice.
The Elevation Programme’s intervention in the lives of young people empowers them to overcome adversity and build brighter futures, made possible through the Val de Vie Foundation’s commitment to supporting youth in impoverished communities.
