An Elardus Park resident and community builder is encouraging her community to get involved in the fight against crime and foster a positive environment for all.
The 58-year-old’s voice is certainly not silent in her community as she runs safety and security operations in the east of Pretoria.
Shawn Fouché has been hailed as a beacon of hope due to the meaningful role she plays in society.
Fouché works for a duct manufacturing company, while her community knows her as a Jill of all trades and protector against crimes.
“Over the years I have had the privilege to assist community members when they needed support, concerning safety and security issues as well as emotional support,” said Fouché.
She joined the traditionally male-dominated field of safety and security through the Lyttelton Sector 4 Community Policing Sub Forum (LS4 CPSF) and Welriet Community NPC in 2019.
“Being a part of LS4 CPSF and Welriet since 2019 has been a privilege,” Fouché said.
Her involvement with LS4 CPSF includes marketing, advertising, public relations, co-ordinating, patrolling, training, and joint operations command centre operator.
She said when then-chairperson Jonathan Ross asked her to join the forum as a public relations officer, it was a step towards serving the community.
“My motivation in remaining involved is my passion for our community, as well as my belief that LS4 CPSF and Welriet are a great example of how a CPF can enhance a community,” she said.
Apart from being involved in community development and safety programmes, Fouché is a mother of two sons.
She said women can be the change they want to see in their respective communities.
“I believe it is now time for women to not only shine but to play a meaningful role in society. I am glad that my contributions to make a change in our communities are being recognised and celebrated by others.”
JOC operator resident Denise Wolmarans described Fouché as a selfless individual.
“I would really appreciate it if the spotlight can be put on Shawn Fouché,” said Wolmarans.
“Fouché is a lady who gives selflessly of her time and energy, serving the people of Elardus Park, Wingate Park and the surrounding areas.”
She has been involved in community building programmes, such as arranging social crimes prevention unit visits to schools and nursery schools and helping out with the Garstkloof landfill site. She helped with the fencing of Piering Park, and events like Coffee with a Cop, helping to bridge the gap between the community and all role players.
“I liaise with the ward councillors in our area, police, TMPD and security companies and other role players, then give feedback and updates to the community.”
Fouché said one of her challenges was getting the community to get involved.
“We have had issues with attendance of community meetings, and finding ways of showing the community the value of the CPF and Welriet.”
She said more women need to be involved because women are nurturing and protective by nature.
“Therefore this brings a balanced and caring side to the CPF. Women also bring a different view on crime-fighting methods and this is always a positive.”
She said she believes that more patrols and visibility are a great deterrent for criminals.
“The more people patrolling, the better visibility, the less crime.”
She encouraged people to attend community meetings and raise concerns with the police and TMPD officials directly. And to join the Joint Operator Centre (JOC) to operate and monitor the emergency number, while assisting those in need to get the help they need as quickly as possible.
Fouché believes that a great community builder must have patience and a great support team who is always willing to assist, advise and support you.
According to her, the best advice for others wanting to make a positive impact in their community is to get involved in your local CPF, local community committees and NGOs.
“Get to know your neighbours, be aware of anyone in your neighbourhood needing assistance and reach out to them,” she concluded.
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