From Dreams to Reality: Tabby’s Journey to Sustainable Success at Goodluck Homestead
At Caleo Consulting, we are a proud female-owned business and we love celebrating the success of women who inspire us with their strength, resilience, and innovation. This month, we’d like you to meet Tabby Robertshaw, a snake-catching, mom of two who can wield a butcher’s knife and rock a dress all at the same time. Tabby is the co-owner of Goodluck Homestead in Stanford, and together with her partner in life and business, Alex, they have transformed a dream into a flourishing reality, blending sustainable farming with hospitality in the picturesque Stanford Valley.
A Dream Takes Root
Tabby's entrepreneurial journey began in 2007 when she and Alex left London with the dream of starting a small farm and living a self-sufficient lifestyle. "We rented a small cottage in Noordhoek for a year, gaining experience in growing vegetables and landscaping," Tabby recalls. "Most weekends were spent 'farm hunting' in the countryside."
Their determination led them to a small cottage just outside Stanford, where they embarked on their self-sufficiency project. They quickly acquired dogs, chickens, and piglets to help clear the land and even took over the farm's beehives to start a beekeeping business. Unexpectedly, one of the piglets was pregnant, and soon, they found themselves as pig farmers as well.
Building Goodluck Homestead
Fast forward a few years, and Tabby and Alex now own and run Goodluck Homestead, a fully sustainable farm nestled in the Stanford Valley. Their farm specialises in producing ethically raised meat, with pork being their primary product. They also offer rabbit, goat, and beef from time to time. The beekeeping side of their business has grown to include 50 hives in production. Additionally, they've expanded to provide various accommodations on the farm, with intimate cottages for a couple’s escape, to spacious farmhouses for groups getaways.
"Our main goal is to produce ethically raised meat for our loyal local market," says Tabby. "The guest accommodation allows us to share the beauty and tranquillity of our farm with others, creating a unique experience that blends agriculture and hospitality."
The Enneagram: A Tool for Growth
Understanding her Enneagram Type 7 personality has played a significant role in Tabby's journey as a woman and entrepreneur. Initially apprehensive about the Enneagram, she was surprised by how accurately it described her personality, strengths, and weaknesses. "I found it so on point in describing my work ethic and the way I run my business and personal life," she reflects. As a Type 7, Tabby's adventurous spirit and zest for life have driven her to embrace off-the-grid living and chase her dreams with unstoppable enthusiasm. Her ability to see opportunities and take risks has been crucial in creating Goodluck Homestead and living out her dream of a sustainable, self-sufficient lifestyle.
Finding out her Enneagram type has given her better insights into her personal expectations and how she executes tasks. "Exploring the Enneagram can be a transformative journey for self-awareness and personal growth," says Tabby. "I realised how much I tend to avoid uncomfortable emotions. This awareness has helped me face challenges more directly and grow from them."
Tabby’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and transformation. From their early days of "farm hunting" to creating a sustainable homestead that supports their community, Tabby and Alex have realised their dream through hard work and dedication, and we will continue to celebrate women like Tabby who dare to dream, defy expectations, and create change. Their stories inspire us to believe in our own potential and work towards a brighter, more inclusive future.