EMPD hosts women’s wellbeing session
Women from law enforcement agencies, correctional services and other departments within Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality converged on the Alberton City Hall on Thursday, last week.
Their purpose was to encourage women to continually empower themselves and to ensure that they come out of their shells when experiencing abuse.
The occasion also served as a precursor to the celebration activities planned for August, as Women’s Month.
Deputy chief of police Ugeshni Naidoo delivered the keynote address, touching on all issues impacting on women’s lives, as well as on opportunities that are out there for women to seize.
“You, as women, must rise to the existing challenges and fully utilise opportunities at your disposal for amelioration of your lives, your families and communities; let your aim be to build, encourage, motivate and support one another,” Naidoo advised.
Helen Koko, from Legal Aid, explained the services Legal Aid renders, as well as advice that can be obtained in respect of various issues, including domestic violence by which women are confronted in their daily lives.
An ex-convict who is on parole related how her experiences, inside and outside prison, have impacted on her life to the good.
Louise Choeu, an occupational health care nurse, offered advise on the importance of women undergoing regular screening and for them to take responsibility for their own psychological and social well-being.
Employee assistance practitioner Nonkululeko Tyilana expounded on the programmes the employer offers.
Acting director at the EMPD Academy, Carin Heyneke, articulated the importance of women taking pride in their uniforms as well the proper manner in which they should carry themselves in both their personal and professional lives.
Various activities have been planned to celebrate Women’s Month, including the big celebrations scheduled for Women’s Day (August 9).
