Hundreds of Grade 11 pupils attended a careers exhibition organised by the Manenberg police station and community police forum, at Phoenix High School’s hall, on Tuesday last week.
The pupils, coming from high schools in the Manenberg police precinct, were informed about careers in the various branches of the police service, and there were also displays by tertiary institutions.
The day was all about “lighting the fires of learning” and inspiring the youth, said Manenberg police spokesman Captain Ian Bennett.
CPF chairwoman Vanessa Adriaanse said: “We wanted to make a positive impact. We invited different institutions, including various colleges. The exhibition was a huge success and very informative as the pupils saw the opportunities available. We also had different speakers. I addressed them about gender-based violence and what they can do to ensure their space, especially at school, is safe. We made sure we got them to see SAPS as their friend and not their enemy.”
She also explained the role of the CPF and spoke about the challenges in Manenberg and Heideveld.
“Yes, there are challenges we have to face, living in Manenberg and Heideveld, but where we come from does not define who we are. There are so many success stories of people from our communities. I have lived in Heideveld all my life and I attended Cathkin High School, and I chose to become better than my circumstances. Today I am proud to be a leader with morals.”
Captain Bennett said: “We have a responsibility to ensure that our youth is given an equal chance to make things better for themselves. We encourage our parents to inspire their children to strive for a better future. This is our time to shine.”
