Clr Haggard’s greatest successes are her children

BCT: You were not born in Benoni, but what makes this place important to you?

MH: I was born in the North West, but I have fond memories of visiting Benoni as a child, at Christmas time, to see the Christmas lights.

My three children and I moved here in December 2001 and were welcomed to the community almost immediately.

The community has a genuine friendliness and the hospitality is not easily matched elsewhere. People are community-driven and eager to make a difference.

BCT: Where have you lived in Benoni?

MH: I have lived in Farrarmere for seven years and Western Extension for eight years.

I currently live in Western Extension.

BCT: Tell us about your life growing up and moving to Benoni?

MH: I was born in Klerksdorp (NW), spent most of my primary school years near Bergville (KZN) and completed my schooling in Welkom (Free State).

I was the eldest of three siblings and we moved to various provinces due to my father’s work commitments with Shaft Sinkers.

My fondest memories growing up were living in the Drakensberg while my father worked on the Hydroelectric Pump Storage Scheme.

I have been a single parent for the past 16 years and have three children, Kerdrick (25), Chloe (23) and Bryce Haggard (18).

I have various qualifications, including a Bachelor in personnel leadership (industrial psychology), a theology diploma, a diploma in municipal and public management, and I’m a NQF Six skills development facilitator.

BCT: Tell us about owning your own business and becoming a ward councillor?

MH: I have run my own HR consulting business for the past 18 years.

In my student years I became a very active member of the DA (then PFP/DP) and have always been active in various community organisations.

I was the DA PR councillor in Ward 73 during the last term, but knew I would be able to make a more significant difference to the community as a ward councillor.

BCT: Any hobbies?

MH: I like interior decorating and cooking.

BCT: What should Benoni know about you?

MH: My greatest achievement was provincial and university colours for karate.

I have had many leadership roles in the DA over the past 26 years.

I am a founder member of the Association of Skills Development Facilitators in South Africa (ASDFSA) and I am a board member of the Greater Benoni Child Welfare.

I think my greatest success in life has been raising three children as a single parent for the past 16 years, and seeing their success is my greatest reward.

Also read: Getting to know your new ward councillor

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