Olives have played a significant role in helping Elzanne Bolsen facilitate the growth of kids in Riebeek Kasteel. Most of the kids come from disadvantaged backgrounds, “there is no support from the parents, no income. They risk losing sight of why schooling is important but not under Bolsen’s watch. “I won’t let our children fade away,” said Bolsen. Bolsen is a Psychologist in training and the Manager of the Riebeek Kasteel Youth Centre.
The Goedgedacht Trust, founded in 1993 transforms rural communities, by offering the youth the opportunity to become healthy, self- confident, educated young people able to take up leadership roles in their own communities. For example, The Riebeek Kasteel youth centre is equipped with a library and computer room. Furthermore, the kids are also part of the Goedgedacht Trust’s Path Out of Poverty programme, which offers counselling, meals, a shower, after-school care and homework assistance.
To support the centre, Goedgedacht farm produces and sells 10 000 litres of olive oil and 30 to 35 tonnes of table olives every year but it’s Bolsen’s dedication and commitment that gives the centre its power. She is a successful alumnus of the initiative and sells slap chips every Friday to bring in additional funds. “My vision is to create strong leaders,” said Bolsen.
