In a bid to help women in the community who have been victims of gender-based violence and to inspire them to become financially independent, the Jeffreys Bay Community Policing Forum hosted their first event in two years which they hope will positively contribute to the community they serve.
As previously reported by the Kouga Express, when Mieta Williams-Jan was appointed as chairperson of the Jeffreys Bay CPF in October last year, she set out a plan to bring together the CPF, the various neighbourhood watch groups and community members by hosting events that positively contribute to the community.
Now, after being unable to host any events since 2020, Williams-Jan and her six team members celebrated Women’s Day and Heritage Day by hosting an event to support victims of GBV, educate women about the dangers of staying in an abusive relationship and promoting self-acceptance by encouraging their guests to celebrate their heritage.
The event took place at Pellsrus Community Hall in Jeffreys Bay on September 24 and was well attended by community members.
Williams-Jan said it was important to host the event to create awareness, empower and educate women to be independent and become role models for younger girls.
Since the CPF members are elected by the community, she said it was vital for the group to create a good relationship with the public and the police.
“We strive to reduce criminal activities by being involved in the community. We are aware of the social issues in the community, and it is therefore easier for us to tackle these issues and find solutions,” Williams-Jan.
On the day of the event, Sergeant Mveleli Ncana informed the guests about the process of applying for a court interdict and places to find help when in a GBV relationship, while a representative from the Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm notified the women about their plans to give back to the community by offering an entrepreneurship.
Retired teacher, Jeanette Dennis, encouraged the women to join her early childhood development training programme which she plans to launch in Jeffreys Bay on Saturday, October 15, and the owner of Ubuhle Wellness Spa, Linda Ngweba, inspired the women to consider becoming entrepreneurs to be able to support themselves financially.
To end the event on a high note, Siyanda Jack and Natashja Ellis shared their stories of inspiration to give the women hope despite the difficult circumstances they face.
“The community was grateful for the event we hosted and thanked the CPF for providing a safe space for women to learn about the resources and services available to them,” said Williams-Jan.
She further said the guests who were in attendance have requested that the CPF host similar initiatives in the future as they were able to receive important information.
“There is always help for people who need it, and we encourage people to reach out to the CPF, SAPS and victim support centre when they need to,” said Williams-Jan.
Sponsors who contributed to the success of the event included Jeffreys Bay Spar, Fountains Mall, ADT Security, CPF Jeffreys Bay members, ward councillors, Daniel Benson and Zwayi Yali, Wavecrest Neighbourhood Watch, Ngweba, local business owner, Andre Venter, Jeffreys Bay Pick n Pay, spa owner, Ngweba, and the Kouga Municipality.
“We would like to thank everyone who contributed to our event, especially the community who added to the success of our first big event,” said Williams-Jan.
