All for the love of farming

Growing up in Windhoek, Chantelle Mouton's journey took her through education at Elim Primary School and Delta Secondary School. However, it was her post-high school chapter that truly painted the picture of her life.

Navigating her way out of adolescence, she ventured into the realm of beauty therapy, enrolling at the esteemed Beauty Therapy Institute. As a skilled beauty therapist by profession, Mouton reflected on her upbringing, emphasising the hard work and independence instilled by her strict yet supportive parents.

Stepping into her 20s, a new passion began to grow within her heart. The city girl found herself drawn to the world of farming. Weekends saw her in the rustic charm of the farm, a place rooted in her father's history.

A pivotal moment was when she attended a Bonsmara cattle auction hosted by Dr Joggie Bredenhann. The dedication and investment poured into the cattle left an indelible mark on her. This encounter sparked her aspiration to embrace farming in her own unique way.

Her father's purchase of a farm was the green light for their family to leap into the world of farming. Mouton's involvement began with the care of a bull and several heifers. Guided by tradition and curiosity, she embarked on a journey to learn the age-old techniques of cattle rearing. Formal education found a place in her journey as well, as she delved into agricultural courses such as farm management at Agra ProVision.

While her path was lined with potential, it wasn't without challenges. The pandemic cast a shadow over her business and personal life. Yet, amid the storm, she created her own rainbow by prioritising self-care and resilience.

When asked about her aspirations, Mouton's eyes shifted to the horizon. She said in five years, she envisions herself flourishing as a successful farmer, reaping the rewards of her labour on her very own land.

And yet her ambitions stretch beyond the fields. She also yearns to spark the flame of agricultural interest in young hearts, inspiring them to embrace the art of farming.

Her words were filled with wisdom earned from experience when she advised young minds and aspiring farmers: "Always be a learner, and chase your dreams with passion”.