Local police officer wins Vita Basadi Award
'A top achievement by one of the West Rand’s finest'
Captain Paula Terblanche was crowned the overall winner of the Vita Basadi Awards in the Guardian category on 31 August.
A prestigious event held by the Gauteng Legislature’s Multi-party Women’s Caucus at the Johannesburg City Hall recognised and rewarded women for their achievements in different environments.
The criteria for the Guardian category stipulate that the winner must be a woman in the military or police who holds the fort and has made sacrifices in the interest of her community. She must be actively involved in her community and initiate projects.
Captain Terblanche has been a member of the West Rand family violence, child protection and sexual offence unit (FCS) for 15 years and the cluster has always noticed her compassion and diligence in her work ethic. She has achieved many breakthroughs in the fight against social crimes in the area over the past few years.
She spent Mandela Day with the people of Munsieville in support of the FCS.
The West Rand women’s network says this award has been the ultimate conclusion of women’s month. “The network could not be more proud of her achievement,” said Major General Anna Mateisi, the West Rand Cluster station commander. “A top achievement by one of the West Rand’s finest”, she continued.
“We are extremely proud of Captain Terblanche and hope that she will continue motivating and inspiring women. Her effort is recognised.”
Captain Terblanche was not the only local who was rewarded for a contribution to the community. Betty Nkoana, a Munsieville community member, was awarded the Community Builder of the Year Award.
The criteria for this category are: The candidate must be a woman who has shown courage and commitment in developing her community. This is a woman who puts her community first; she is a leader who inspires collective action, has a kind heart and is resourceful. She stops at nothing to empower her community to sustain itself, be it through business ventures or income-generating projects. This community builder is a mentor for community leaders and leads her community in various aspects.
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