Toekomsrus-born Advocate Nicolette Bell made Rand West City proud with her recent appointment as Director of Public Prosecutions in the Western Cape.
In an exclusive interview with the Herald, the 50-year-old said she worked hard to get where she is today. “I hope to inspire the youth of our town to follow suit and one day fill my shoes,” she said.
Nicolette who’s also a former learner of Toekomsrus Primary School and Randfontein Secondary School (RSS) added that her desire to get an education and a good qualification laid the foundation for her success.
I had such a happy childhood in Toekomsrus,” Nicolette said, adding that growing up she was shaped into the person she is today because good principles were instilled in her.
“I learned early in life that you have to believe in yourself before others will believe in you.”
Speaking about her new role, Nicolette said as the Director of Public Prosecutions in the Western Cape she oversees and authorises all prosecutions in the province.
“I am also responsible for operational oversight and control, overall management, supervision and decision-making in respect of all prosecutions in the High Court, as well as prosecutorial decisions in respect of all representation in matters of public interest,” Nicolette explained.
She went on to say in order for young people to get the same opportunities they should be taught that the only way to do that is to have a strong will to reach their highest goals. Even if people encountered setbacks they shouldn’t be derailed from their paths because challenges that we face in life make us stronger and more resilient.
In her message to those with aspirations to achieve great things in life, especially in the legal field, is that people should know that this line of work is very demanding, but in the end very rewarding.
We carry a huge responsibility to ensure that women, children and vulnerable members of society, and society at large, are treated fairly and equally.
“When we do our work conscientiously and we see to it that justice is served, we ensure that society is a safer place for everyone. Our actions also inspire others to do more for themselves and to better themselves.
“I would hope that my achievements would inspire the youth and show them that through hard work and dedication they too can make a success of their careers,” Nicolette said.
