Women from law enforcement agencies, correctional services and other departments within the metro gathered at the Alberton City Hall, on August 1, for a well-being session.
The purpose of the event was to encourage women to continually empower themselves and to ensure that they talk out if they are experiencing abuse.
The occasion also served as a precursor to the celebration activities planned for August as Women’s Month.
EMPD 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 the betterment of your lives, your families and communities,” she said.
“Let your aim be to build, encourage, motivate and support one another.”
Helen Koko, from Legal Aid, explained the services Legal Aid renders, as well as outlining the advice that can be obtained in respect of various issues, including domestic violence, with which women are confronted in their daily lives.
An ex-convict, who is on parole, related how her experiences inside and outside of prison have impacted on her life, to the good.
Louise Choeu, an occupational health care nurse, gave advice on the importance of women undergoing regular screening and for them to take responsibility for their own psychological and social well-being.
Metro employee assistance practitioner Nonkululeko Tyilana expounded on the programmes the employer offers.
Acting director at the EMPD Academy, Carin Heyneke, spoke about the importance of women taking pride in their uniforms, as well as the proper manner in which they should carry themselves in both their personal and professional lives.
