BARRAGE – She is a cop who believes that serving the community is more than just a job. Now, Sergeant Albertina Shabalala has two shiny awards to show for her hard work.

The Barrage policewoman took first place in the Vispol Employee of the Year category and second place in the Woman of the Year category at the Police Excellence Awards.

With 18 years in the police service, Shabalala said she has always been ready to go the extra mile.

“I am a sector manager, rural safety coordinator and Barrage initiation schools coordinator,” she said.

Having several responsibilities as one of the station’s old officers, Shabalala shared stories about how she goes all out performing her duties.

She recalled the demanding times when foot-and-mouth disease affected the farming community, saying rural safety remains an important part of her duties.

She also revealed that she is never afraid to take on extra responsibilities.

“I’m a person who loves challenges. I always take charge and volunteer to do extra work,” she said.

For three months, she even acted as the Vispol head after their station commander left. But for Shabalala, the real reward is not found in trophies.

It is found in protecting the people of Barrage.

“The awards mean a lot for me, but the real recognition is received when helping those we committed to assist,” she said.

Shablala said being a dedicated officer is a calling.

“I always wanted to be a police officer from a very young age. To me, this has always been my calling. All I ever wanted was to protect the community that we serve,” she said.

Sometimes that calling means working long after her shift has ended.

Shabalala recalled how she once helped a family whose chickens had been slaughtered.

“I am one with the community of Barrage because ours is to serve them,” she said.

“These are some of the things which remind us why we are police.”

For this dedicated cop, the awards are a reminder that every act of service counts.