eDeaf staff take a jab at self defence
According to eDeaf's marketing and communications manager, Nicky Bezuidenhout, a person with a disability is 80% more likely to be a victim of sexual violence.
IN a move to help empower the dedicated staff at eDeaf, a non-profit company, the Cops and Combat Academy held an informative self defence class at its training centre recently.
eDeaf strives to improve the social and economic lives of the deaf community in South Africa. According to eDeaf’s marketing and communications manager, Nicky Bezuidenhout, a person with a disability is 80% more likely to be a victim of sexual violence.
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“We had a deaf woman contact us and said her colleagues were making all sorts of unwanted advances towards her. When she wrote a note telling the manager, it was all dismissed due to ‘miscommunication’ and ‘misunderstanding’. We met with the client, alongside an interpreter, to resolve the issue and ensure that proper action is taken,” she said.
Left to Right Back Row) Cheryl Xulu, Bukeka Meva, Nicky Bezuidenhout, Talisa Lalthapersad, Lungile Dlamini, Pinky Ximba, and Kholeka Mthombeni.
(Left to Right Front Row) Captain Robby Mahabeer, Shubnum Nabbi Maharaj (Office Manager), and Sanele Ngwane.
Bezuidenhout said they were delighted when the founder of Cops and Combat, Captain Robby Mahabeer, volunteered his services free of charge to educate staff members how to protect themselves during hostile situations and equip the team with effective escape tactics.
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“We knew we were in good hands with Captain Mahabeer. He put us through our paces and ensured our team was confident in their new-found skills. Cops and Combat Academy have also successfully trained the Durban Metro Police in self defence. We hope to roll out this training nationally to our other branches, and do follow up refresher courses,” she said.
