Brakpan SAPS kicked off its Women’s Month celebrations under the theme “Superwoman” by honouring women in the community who go above and beyond to better their lives and make a difference.

“What does it take to change a community?” Is it resources, or is it leadership?” asked Constable Audrey Buthelezi, Brakpan SAPS social crime prevention and communications officer.

“The SAPS believes that it takes something more powerful to change a community. It takes people with vision, courage, and the determination to act.

“As Women’s Month begins, Brakpan SAPS celebrates women who embody exactly that.”

Buthelezi stated that while the mission of SAPS is to protect and serve, safety is not only about preventing crime.

“It is also about building communities where people have opportunities, dignity and hope,” she continued.

“Brakpan SAPS recognises women who turn waste into worth, challenges into opportunities, and create safer, cleaner and more sustainable neighbourhoods.

“These are women in recycling.”

Buthelezi, together with Community in Blue patrollers Martha Mayisa and Pulane Qhina, recently spent the day with Busisiwe Maseko (57) and Nobuhle Nhlengethwa (34), two women recyclers at the Brenthurst mini dumping site.

“These women are not just collecting bottles, cans, and paper. They are contributing to environmental protection by reducing pollution and preserving natural resources, contributing to economic empowerment by creating jobs and income for families.

“They also boost community pride by transforming public spaces and inspiring others to take responsibility for their spaces,” explained Buthelezi.

“As law enforcement officers, we often work during nights into the dawn. We have seen women who start their day before sunrise, collecting, sorting and processing recyclable materials.”

Maseko and Nhlengethwa shared that they recycle because they believe in a better tomorrow.

“I spent time with these remarkable women at the dumping site where they explained their daily duties, how they interact with people coming to the site, and how recycling has changed their lives for the better,” said Buthelezi.

Maseko has since employed four locals at her recycling business.

The two women are surrounded by men, and they reiterated that even though it was difficult in the beginning, they have adjusted and no longer feel intimidated by the male-dominated working environment.

“Brakpan SAPS believes that a safe community is a united community. The work these women do reduces illegal dumping, improves public health, and fosters a sense of shared responsibility,” said Buthelezi.

“This directly supports the SAPS’ mission to create safer streets and healthier environments.

“We are proud to stand alongside these ‘Superwomen’ in recognition and celebration, not only as law enforcers, but as partners in building a future where safety, sustainability, and opportunity go hand-in-hand.”

Brakpan SAPS encourages young girls to look up to these women as role models as they demonstrate that leadership is not about titles, but action.

“They are showing that you can protect your community, not only with a badge or a uniform, but with your hands, your heart, and your vision,” said Buthelezi.

“We encourage community members to support women recyclers and to learn from them.

“In celebration of women, Brakpan SAPS salutes every woman who has chosen to be a guardian of both our environment and our community.

“They are not just recycling materials, but they are recycling hope, dignity, and opportunities for everyone.

“The SAPS will continue to work with communities side by side to build a society that is safe, clean, and full of promise.”