Trainees learn about the ‘thin blue line’
It's important to enjoy working with people and have a passion for protecting communities if you want to work in law enforcement, says Mitchell’s Plain police’s Tafelsig sector commander Captain Ian Williams.
He was speaking at a career day held by the Dream Again Foundation for 30 Mitchell’s Plain and Philippi residents who are training to become peace officers.
The foundation invited police, traffic and law enforcement officers to talk about the challenges and requirements of their jobs. TV actor Brandon Marnevil also spoke about his experiences growing up in Tafelsig, becoming an actor, running a business and studying further.
The three-month accredited peace-officer training, offered by non-profit organisation Mizpah Projects, is funded by Sub-council 12’s grant-in-aid projects.
"You will encounter people with different personalities daily. You must have a passion or interest in safeguarding your community," Captain Williams told the trainees. "It must mean something to you because when you put on your uniform, whichever one you may wear one day, you are there to make a difference and change. You are there to stand for the good and to be part of what the Americans call the ‘thin blue line’.
“If your concern is the community and their safety, working with people and making a difference then this career is definitely for you. It will be fulfilling and satisfying for you."
He advised the trainees to adopt a victim-centric approach.
“Victims are at the brunt of abuse from someone else or group of people. They are the most helpless person in that situation, so when we come and engage, inform, educate and create awareness, we are switching on a button in that person’s mind. We are changing their positioning, status and how they view themselves from victim to someone that is victorious, from someone who is helpless to someone that is capable. That’s the difference that you can make."
Senior traffic officer Ndibuze Qolweni, from the traffic department’s road safety education unit, spoke about upholding traffic laws, issuing fines, dealing with difficult motorists and other challenges of the job.
“If you like to serve people, this is one of the best jobs. Our purpose is to serve and treat people with dignity and respect, including the offenders, and sometimes even to save them. For instance, when we arrest someone who is under the influence, we are saving that person from himself,“ he said.
Law Enforcement officer Insaaf Rana, spoke about career paths in the City's marine, metal theft, school resource officer and municipal by-laws units.
“Just because you have your uniform on and have authority, it doesn’t mean you must throw your power around. Treat people with respect and they will respect you,“ she said.
“I started having children at an early age. I didn’t allow that to determine where I am going. No matter how your life starts out, the sky is the limit.
“Remember, any situation you may find yourself in, you will overcome it. You can be whatever you want to be. Don’t allow anything to put you down."
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