Birchleigh woman leads service delivery fight in Kempton Park

Tracy Serfontein grew up in Birchleigh, moved away for a few years, and has now called the suburb home again for over two decades.

To her, Birchleigh isn’t just a neighbourhood. It’s a place full of memories, friendships, and a deep sense of community.

“What stands out about Birchleigh is how close-knit we are. We stand together,” she said.

Sadly, like many parts of Kempton Park, the area has seen years of neglect.

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According to Serfontein, most streetlights haven’t worked in years, potholes go unrepaired, and a collapsing stormwater and sewage system has caused recurring sinkholes.

“Our parks are in a terrible state. Illegal dumping is rampant, and crime has increased. Many residents feel vulnerable,” she explained.

Despite these challenges, Serfontein remains motivated by her roots.

“This is my hometown, where my husband and I grew up, and where we raised our daughter. Giving up isn’t an option.

“Birchleigh and its surrounding suburbs are full of incredible, dedicated residents who step up every weekend to run clean-ups, fix potholes, and drive Ubuntu initiatives. The people, not the City of Ekurhuleni, are making the difference.”

Among her many contributions, Serfontein played a key role in helping scrap the controversial R1 725 cable theft fee.

ALSO READ: Birchleigh residents fix potholes themselves after months of municipal delays

“It was a massive team effort,” she said.

“Residents across Kempton Park sent emails on March 16 and flooded 702 with messages during the mayor’s interview the next day, where he denied charging residents for stolen cables.

“The fight’s not over, but that was a big win, especially since this has been happening in areas like Germiston for years.”

With poor service delivery becoming the norm, Serfontein says every resolved complaint feels like a victory.

“It’s disturbing how many complaints are ‘closed’ without anything being done. It feels like the numbers are being manipulated, and it needs investigating.”

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She believes community efforts have made a real difference, offering residents hope and proving that persistence matters.

“It’s not just me. It’s a team. Fellow admins in community groups work day and night to log and follow up on complaints. Their support is powerful.”

Serfontein is particularly passionate about service delivery and is currently focused on getting Birchleigh’s streetlights working again. She also supports local initiatives like CCF and Share It Live, praising their commitment.

She credits her family, friends, fellow admins, her security company GMBC, the FAFO Squad, and many councillors for encouraging her efforts.

“I’m lucky to have such a great support system. My family and friends are always willing to lend a hand. That keeps me going.”

Serfontein says there are common misconceptions about her role in the community.

“People often think I get paid or that I’m a ward councillor. I’m not. I’m the other Tracy, and I don’t work for any political party either. That’s all a myth.”

What started as a hobby, helping in local community groups, has now become a full-time passion.

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When she’s not busy logging complaints or coordinating clean-ups, she enjoys time with loved ones and supporting her daughter’s U16 boys’ hockey team.

“What drives me is knowing people depend on me and appreciate what I do. People say I get obsessed, which is both a blessing and a curse, but it’s hard to switch off when you care.”

Her message to others? Get involved.

“No matter how small your contribution, it can make a difference. Stand together. Report issues, even if it’s the same one for the hundredth time.

“Know your neighbours. Hold the municipality accountable, not just councillors. And be kind to the admins in your community groups.”

Birchleigh residents have not only noticed Serfontein’s efforts. They applaud them.

“As a leader in our street community, I want to express my praise for Tracy’s ongoing commitment,” said resident Carol Boltt.

“She’s always on the front lines, guiding people through municipal processes, helping with everything from lost animals to burst pipes. And she refuses to accept gifts, not even cookies or flowers. Tracy is an unsung hero.”

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Another resident, Lizanda Joshua, echoed the sentiment:

“Without any expectation of reward, Tracy logs and follows up on service delivery complaints even beyond her area. Her kindness, empathy, and perseverance show the true power of volunteerism. She’s a blessing in our community.”