Pertunia defies stereotypical views
"Don't let others tell you that you can't do something as they don't know your capabilities as an individual."
POLOKWANE – Pertunia Monyela is living proof that women can thrive in male dominated career paths.
The 28-year-old from Ga-Mothapo has been serving as a security control officer since 2008. She enjoys interacting with new people daily and, she applied for the job as she wanted to prove a point in her community and to her family that women can be security officers.
“I was told I was crazy for wanting to do such a job as it is a job made for men. Even when I got the job they still told me I would not last. It’s been more than seven years and I love my job.”
Pertunia has two children and although she was anxious about how the job would take up all her time at first, she has managed to adapt between her roles at home and at work.
“In the morning before I leave for work I make breakfast and lunch boxes as well as lunch for the children for when they come back from school. After work I rush home to cook dinner and help them with their homework.”
Pertunia said she is grateful for the opportunity to help in curbing crime as as it makes her feel important and valuable.
Her advice to women who consider a career in security is to follow their dreams.
“We can do any kind of work we want. Don’t let others tell you that you can’t do something as they don’t know your capabilities as an individual.”
