About Us

Meet the owner and founder of Ouma Bets Gebak

Welcome to Ouma Bets Gebak, where every bite is infused with love, passion, and a touch of nostalgia! My name is Shineal van der Walt, and I’m excited to share the heartwarming story behind our bakery.

Ouma Bets Gebak began as an unexpected adventure in February 2024. As I pursued my studies to become an Animal Health Technician, I found myself at a crossroads when I had to leave my job due to the demands of my practicals. With bills to pay and a passion for baking in my heart, I decided to turn my kitchen into a creative haven and start baking.

From the very beginning, I knew what I wanted to call my bakery. Growing up, I was always inspired by my beloved grandmother, Bets Barnard, who was not just a wonderful cook but also a source of strength and creativity in my life. Naming the bakery after her felt like a tribute to the rich family traditions and the love of baking that she instilled in me.

What started as a means to generate a generous income quickly blossomed into so much more. As I baked my first batch of cookies and treats, I discovered a joy and fulfillment I never anticipated. The positive feedback and support from friends and family fueled my passion, and it wasn't long before Ouma Bets Gebak became a beloved name in our community.

Today, I’m committed to creating delicious baked goods that bring joy to your celebrations, big or small. While I continue my studies, I’m excited to pour my heart and soul into this bakery, crafting each treat with the same love that my grandmother shared with me.

Thank you for supporting Ouma Bets Gebak! Together, let’s create sweet memories, one delicious bite at a time.

Meet Ouma Bets

Ouma Bets Gebak is more than just a bakery; it’s a tribute to a woman who has been the heart and soul of her community for over five decades. Our story begins with my grandmother, Bets Barnard, whose love for baking ignited at a very young age. With no prior experience, she learned the craft from her mother-in-law, and what started as a humble passion quickly blossomed into a lifelong calling.

For more than 50 years, Ouma Bets has been known for her incredible ability to bake everything from traditional koeksisters to pies, rusks, cakes, and cookies. In fact, her name became synonymous with delicious, homemade “lekker kos” around our hometown, where she would bake over 2,000 dozen koeksisters every week, along with platters and other treats, all crafted with love and care.

But Ouma Bets’ journey hasn’t been without hardship. About 10 years ago, a devastating fire destroyed her home and her bakery, leaving her with nothing. The loss was deeply felt, not only by her, but by everyone who had come to cherish her baking. Yet, in the face of this adversity, the town rallied behind her. With the support of people near and far, Ouma Bets was able to rebuild her life and start her bakery again from scratch.

Her resilience and strength are a constant inspiration to me. Ouma Bets isn’t just a baker; she’s a role model who taught me that no setback is too great when you have passion, perseverance, and a community that supports you. The joy of “quick dining” at her house, surrounded by family and the comfort of her delicious food, is a memory that will forever live on in my heart.

Ouma Bets Gebak is a celebration of this legacy—a tribute to her strength, her love for baking, and the impact she has had on everyone fortunate enough to taste her creations.