Aloysha Jooste, 45, Democratic Alliance (DA) local elections candidate councillor for Ward 29 which includes parts of Rant-en-Dal, Chancliff and parts of Dan Pienaarville recently answered the News’ questions regarding the upcoming elections.
1. What have you done during your time in office?
I’m devoted to keeping residents well informed and giving feedback which help residents when dealing with matters in the ward, especially when there’s a burst pipe, broken water meter or electricity issue. The key is to keep in touch with the department to get feedback.
2. If you were elected, what would you focus on and why?
I would focus on the safety of our residents. By working closely with the security sectors and forums in the ward you grow a close-knit communication network with both residents and security. This ensures quick response between residents and security groups.
3. Why should the community vote for you?
I’ve proven myself in Ward 29 for the last three years where I was actively involved in helping residents with numerous matters and managed to solve them. I’ve been available 24/7 to the community and I’m committed to carrying on this way. During the 2019 elections I managed to set up the party’s first operational call centre in Gauteng. I managed to get dedicated activists to assist in fine-tuning the system for the province. I’ve also facilitated numerous public engagements for high profile DA leaders, including John Steenhuisen. I’ve been to all council meetings and federal congresses.
I have a great passion for the community and I wished back in the day that someone was available to help with issues on a municipal level, hence my commitment to doing so now that I have the opportunity.
We’re all in the same boat and I’m planning on steering this boat to more favourable conditions. By voting for me, you would give me the opportunity to be your voice in council. People who know me, know that I am never afraid to speak up and fight for what’s right and fair.
4. Outside of your council duties, how are you involved in the community?
I’ve been involved with the SA Guide-Dogs Association for the last five years which helps visually impaired, autistic children on the high support spectrum and physically disabled persons, primarily using wheelchairs. They also have an orientation and mobility division, assisting people in the process of losing their eyesight with orientation and mobility training using the long cane, as well as teaching skills of daily living.
5. What past experiences make you uniquely qualified for this role?
I come from a corporate background in aviation and freight forwarding. Both these are fast and intense industries. I have worked with high profile people across the globe as well as from all walks of life. My involvement with Guide Dogs gave me insight into the importance of community work and the impact I can make with my drive and commitment to my community.
It gives me great pleasure to be able to make a difference in someone’s life and with my professional experience as well as my volunteering experience I know I have a winning combination in me to be the best I can be to the community.
The municipal elections will take place on Monday, November 1.
Candidate councillors who wish to introduce themselves to the public through the News’ Get to Know Your Candidate segment need to contact the News before Thursday, October 21.
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