Westbrook local inspires community to strive for positive change
Quinto has almost 50 volunteers who do their bit to beautify the town, and she hopes that efforts will continue to grow, as was the case in neighbouring La Mercy.
Born in the beautiful port city of Bari, Italy, Deborah Quinto has set down roots in Westbrook where, ever since arriving, she has made it her mission to inspire residents to develop and improve their community.
The 49-year-old boasts qualifications in political science, has a background in freight and shipping, runs her own shipping company and owns a guest house in Westbrook.
When not dealing with intricate shipping affairs or hosting international guests, Quinto patrols the streets of Westbrook, La Mercy and surrounds as part of her volunteer work as a first responder for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) ever since joining in 2019.
Trained in basic life support and first aid, Quinto has an extraordinary passion for community work, saying that her secret is scarce need for sleep.
She said the 2021 unrest inspired her to become more involved.
“While it was a very violent and scary time, it served as a wakeup call that more needed to be done so that everyone could be better prepared should the need ever arise again,” she said.
She has since established initiatives such as the Westbrook Neighbourhood Watch and Westbrook Security Initiative. She is also actively involved with the Tongaat CPF and various search and rescue groups.
Another initiative sparking a renewed sense of community is the Westbrook Clean and Green project.
First Quinto decided to clear the traffic circles along the M4. Word got around on the day, and 20 locals rallied to the cause.
“People heard about what we were doing and even brought plants and tools without being asked to,” she said.
Noting the stringent recycling efforts she is familiar with in Italy, Quinto began a glass recycling effort at Westbrook Beach.
“I would like to see this grow to the point where we also recycle plastic and paper,” she said, adding there were also plans in the pipeline to spruce up the local beach and its facilities.
“Community initiatives are infectious and we need to be the change we want to see in our community,” she said.
Today, Quinto has almost 50 volunteers who do their bit in beautifying the town, and she hopes that efforts will continue to grow, as has been seen in neighbouring La Mercy.
If you would like to become involved, give Quinto a call at 071 480 8448.
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