This was not merely a random thought; there was a deeper calling, built on the foundation of his childhood in Carnarvon in the Northern Cape, where his father, Jan Mouton, owner of the general dealer store, played a significant role in the community. This store provided far more than bread and milk, it was a one-stop store that served the town of Carnarvon well.

According to Deidré Mouton, Jannie’s wife, her husband’s early years left a lasting impact on him.

“His father helped many people who were struggling,” says Deidré. “This example of service to others shaped Jannie as a young boy, and it was something he never forgot. These early experiences led to Jannie’s deep sense of responsibility towards South Africa. His desire to start a foundation was aimed at building a better future for the country’s youth and creating opportunities like those he had experienced.”

Deidré is the champion for the #EndPeriodPoverty campaign at Stellenbosch University where the Jannie Mouton Foundation has to date donated nearly R200 000 towards this initiative.

Deidré, a remarkable woman with a background in political science, grew up in Pretoria as the eldest of three children. She studied at the University of Pretoria and later met Jannie after both had lost their first spouses. They married in 2010 and have a large, blended family — she has children from her first marriage, while Jannie has three of his own.

Stellenbosch University holds a special place in their hearts. “Jannie lived in Simonsberg, and the children are also Matie alumni,” she adds. “These strong ties to the university make the Jannie Mouton Foundation true partners in advancing the education and development of young people.”

The Jannie Mouton Foundation is also one of SU’s longstanding donors.

The #EndPeriodPoverty initiative is part of the University’s Annual Bridge the Gap Fund. #EndPeriodPoverty aims to raise funds to purchase sanitary pad dispensing machines to address the stigma around period poverty and provide students with dignified access to female hygiene products. Bridge the Gap is the University’s annual fundraising campaign that was launched in 2021. The campaign invites alumni, the student community, staff, parents, and friends of the University to support SU students in overcoming the financial obstacles blocking their path to success. The aim of the campaign is to close the gap between talent and financial need and make a tangible difference in the lives of Matie students.

“Hygiene products is a monthly expense for which there are not always funds, and the project offers a much-needed service to the students. Menstruation is a natural and unavoidable cycle of a woman’s life. It should not be a barrier to success or well-being. By addressing period poverty, we can promote equality, dignity, and health for every young woman, ensuring that they have the resources and support they need to thrive.”

The Jannie Mouton Foundation primarily supports projects in the Boland area, and Deidré is full of praise for the work being done. “At every meeting, our trustees are inspired once again by the wonderful work that so many people in the country are doing to help others. The Foundation’s focus always falls on practical, community-driven solutions. We make annual visits to the institutions we support to ensure that the contributions truly make a difference.”

The #EndPeriodPoverty project is particularly close to Deidré’s heart. She encourages potential donors to support this initiative and make a real difference in the lives of young women.

“Currently there are two machines on the central campus, but due to the size of the campus, the women have to walk far to access them. Our goal is to install three more machines at the Engineering building, the Library at Jan Marais Square, and the Arts building on the corner of Merriman Avenue and Ryneveld Street. There is already a machine on the Tygerberg campus.”

Deidré’s passion for this project stems from her understanding of the daily challenges many young women in South Africa face. “The #EndPeriodPoverty initiative addresses an urgent need. By working with the university, we can address this basic need and truly make a difference.”

Through the Jannie Mouton Foundation and the projects they support, for example #EndPeriodPoverty, they are not only building a legacy but also setting an example of true service to the community.

“Please take the university’s hand and help us make the slogan #EndPeriodPoverty a reality for the young women studying at Stellenbosch,” Deidré concludes. “It’s a call to action that reminds us of all of the power of working together to create a lasting impact.”