I have journeyed with Pynotage Youth Development Academy (PYDA) for over 10 years and continue to be impressed by the quality, consistency, and real-world success of their youth training, development, and work placement outcomes in the tourism and wine sectors.
Yesterday, I facilitated a workshop on Communication and Client Service Development for their Tourism Practitioner Programme. Our work with PYDA forms part of an ongoing learning innovation process focused on the competencies young people need to enter tourism employment successfully.
The workshop used a fast-paced “speed reception” simulation, designed by Cause Development Agency to advance service readiness. Learners had to receive, respond to, and assist “tourists” in real time, testing communication, adaptability, confidence, and service under pressure. It was practical, dynamic, and great fun – reminding me again that I have the best job in the world!
What stood out most to me was not only their performance during the simulation but also the reflections each learner shared afterwards. They spoke so optimistically about their future in tourism and how much they value the opportunity to learn and be part of the PYDA programme. I feel so grateful to see the best of our youth and to be let into their contagious optimism.
The PYDA Tourism Practitioner Programme is designed in direct response to the competency needs of tourism employers in Stellenbosch and demonstrates the power of structured ecosystem collaboration. The one-year programme, under the leadership of Emmalene Ravell-Arries and CEO Roger Domingo, was initiated in 2025 with an intake of 20 learners, 75% of whom are already employed. The 2026 intake increased to 30 learners.
Partnering with the tourism sector
It truly does take a village to move the needle on youth employment. The programme developed through a partnership with the local DMO, Visit Stellenbosch, and future-focused tourism businesses and leaders, all working together to prepare youth to be enabled and empowered.
Other partners include:
Stay Stellenbosch (SPM)
@CECO (Stellenbosch University Central Events and Conferencing Office)
Bonne Esperance Guesthouses
Stellenbosch on Foot
Various Stellenbosch accommodation and restaurant partners (Visit Stellenbosch members) are providing Work Integrated Learning opportunities.
We are so thankful to be part of this evolving innovation in youth development.
