Smiles and Hearts Foundation: Empowering Futures in Rural Africa

• STEM —Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.  Portable labs + teacher training → hands-on science
• Literacy & Education — Books + resources → stronger learning
• Women’s Dignity & Safety — and empowerment
• Community Development — Local partnerships → resilient schools & communities
• Scholarships — Support for low-income families → continued education
• Faith & Service — Christian values → compassion in action
  

In October 2024, before Smiles and Hearts Foundation even had a name, Jane Boyd and Jeff Werner visited Reenpan Primary School in rural Limpopo. They brought simple gifts—books, pencils, and handwritten notes for each teacher. What they witnessed changed everything. Children’s faces lit up with joy, teachers felt encouraged, and a powerful sense of connection took root. This moment became the spark that shaped our mission.

In October 2025, Jeff and a team of volunteers returned to Reenpan to deepen that partnership. They met with Principal Mogotsi and listened as teachers shared their hopes for their students. During this visit, they also met a woman from the nearby community who shared a heartfelt request: support in establishing a small bakery to help sustain families in the village.

From these conversations, two community-led priorities emerged—

STEM for Reenpan and the Village Bakery Project—initiatives shaped directly by the needs and voices of the community.

Neither project is complete yet, but the partnerships are strong, the vision is clear, and the commitment is long-term.

What began with simple gifts in 2024 has grown into a mission built on dignity, collaboration, and hope for the children and families of Reenpan and the surrounding community.

Smiles and Hearts Foundation
Co-founded by Jane Boyd & Jeff Werner

Jane Boyd — Educator & Servant Leader:

a nationally honored educator and speech and debate coach, recognized in the NSDA, TOC, and TFA Halls of Fame for her lifelong impact on students and communities. With decades of leadership in education and a deep commitment to compassion and empowerment, she now brings her vision and dedication to the Smiles and Hearts Foundation, advancing opportunities for children and families in South Africa.

Jeff Werner — Entrepreneur & Visionary:

 a nationally recognized technology executive and entrepreneur whose career includes leading multi-million-dollar enterprises and earning an Inc. 500 award for building one of America’s fastest-growing companies. He now channels his visionary leadership and passion for innovation into advancing the mission of the Smiles and Hearts Foundation, empowering children and communities in South Africa.

Volunteers — The Heart of the Mission

• Teachers, students, farmers, community members
• Dedicate skills and compassion
• Prove lasting change comes together

• Salmon Mogotsi – Education Partnership and School Leadership
  Provides strategic guidance for collaboration with Reenpan Primary School, ensuring alignment with local educational goals and long-term learner development.
   
• Edward Motlhatsane – Community Liaison and Local Operations
  Facilitates communication, coordination, and logistical planning with community stakeholders across Sentrum and surrounding areas.
   
• Yvonne Nshemereirwe – Grants, Partnerships, and Donor Relations
  Advises on resource development, strategic partnerships, and philanthropic engagement to strengthen the Foundation’s sustainability and impact.

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