In honour of Women’s Month, the Dunnottar SAPS station commander and the Dunnottar SAPS Women’s Network, along with Men for Change, hosted a high tea event to celebrate women in law enforcement.
This event recognised the brave women who have fought for women’s rights, gender equality, and recognition, both historically and for future generations.
The theme of the event was ‘women empowerment’, and it brought together women from various sectors, including those employed under the Public Act and Police Act, Employee Health and Wellness (EHW) personnel, stakeholders, partners in law enforcement, CPF members, the business community, and NGOs.
During the event, attendees were encouraged to prioritise self-love and self-care.
EHW’s Captain Rhulani Mathevula remarked, “Most of the time we put others before ourselves; be selfish sometimes. You cannot carry the whole world on your shoulders,” Mathevula said.
The women were also motivated to pursue further studies within the SAPS to prepare for new leadership roles.
Ria Mulder, Dunnottar CPF chaplain, shared her own experience, saying, “I will be 67 soon, and I started studying four years ago. There’s never a day in a woman’s life to say it’s too late. I don’t know your background, but it doesn’t matter what your background is. You have a purpose to serve.”
Various speakers addressed topics of resilience, academic achievement, confidence, and the critical issue of Gender-Based Violence.
Police women were commended for their bravery and encouraged to overcome challenges and take on leadership roles traditionally dominated by men in the organisation.
The event also highlighted the importance of women not neglecting their roles outside of work—as mothers, daughters, and wives—and maintaining balance in their lives.
Station commander Captain Mbongeni Eric Zwane expressed his support for the initiative, thanking everyone who attended and contributed to making the event a success.
He encouraged continued excellence and unity within the SAPS community.
