Self-defence class in Noordwyk leaves women with the tools to keep themselves safe

Chairperson of the Midrand Sector 3 Crime Forum Marvin Maphiri believes the self-defence class needs to be conducted regularly if they are going to overcome the wave of crime activities targeting women in Noordwyk and the surrounding suburbs.

Sphiwe Masilela

October 20, 2022

Lethu Dladla and instructor Hayley Alexander demonstrate how to respond if someone attacks you from behind. Photo: Sphiwe Masilela

Women are increasingly victims of mugging and robbery according to Midrand’s Sector 3 Crime Forum‘s latest crime statistics.

To combat this, the chairperson of the forum, Marvin Maphiri invited On Point Protection Skills (OPPS) International to host a self-defence class.

Orlie Anderson (60), who has been a resident since 1982, describes Noordwyk as a crime-ridden suburb, which mostly affects women who are being preyed on by the perpetrators.

OPPS’ Hayley Alexander performs a defensive move. Photo: Sphiwe Masilela

As a participant, she said it’s better to be prepared because crime was something that one can never run away from. “I feel that many areas are being affected by crime, and it’s better to equip, empower and uplift ourselves now, opposed to when one becomes a victim. You can’t run away from it [crime], instead, it’s better to be equipped and trained by professionals. This is an important step towards trying our best to create a safer community for all of us. The methods, and application was easy for me as a beginner but yet doable and effective,” said Anderson.

Maphiri said there is a dire need for more self-defence sessions to help targeted women protect themselves. “I think those who attended have learned a lot when it comes to how to react and defend themselves when they are in danger,” said Maphiri.

Sector 3 chairperson Marvin Maphiri assists OPPS instructor Vincent May in the self-defence session. Photo: Sphiwe Masilela

He said, in collaboration with OPPS, they will try to host more sessions.

The first-ever three-hour session for women, held at Gecko Jewellery in Crowthorne AH recently, had about 16 participants.

OPPS instructors, Vincent May and Hayley Alexander, taught attendees introductory, practical techniques and moves, using participants to demonstrate the moves to the attendees who then practiced them themselves.

OPPS instructor Hayley Alexander and Sector 3 Crime Forum chairperson Marvin Maphiri demonstrate a self-defence move. Photo: Sphiwe Masilela

May said he was impressed with the involvement and participation of all those who attended.

“I think we have taught them basic introductory defence skills for when an attack occurs in a static/stationary scenario or attack. If you can stop the attack first, then you are safe. Once it becomes a threat in motion, then it is completely different skills or responsive methods, and more training will be required.