With fiery words and razor-sharp intentions, no-nonsense straight-talk gets the job done.
From the Mother City via Durban, the members of Florida Police are backed up by someone saying what she means and meaning what she says. Constable Wendy Adams has been a Reservist in the South African Police for just over 15 years, and has a soldier’s demeanour with criminals, but a sister-like rapport with colleagues. A friend to the downtrodden and an enemy of the abusive, she is a shining example of heroic spirit.
Role models are those who place emphasis on actions and follow through on decisions with conviction and determination, and this attitude is what has taken Constable Adams on her uniformed duty. After a troubled but suitably resolved interaction with police, the then average citizen discovered the Reservists and has not looked back. “I decided that I would rather join in the fight against crime instead of sitting in my home and complaining about it. Since that day I have never regretted joining the police,” said Wendy.
Not content with simply doing her part, Constable Adams is looking to break down the barriers created by enduring stereotypes. “I do find that female officers have a bit of an uphill struggle to gain the respect and recognition that they deserve for their hard work. Unfortunately certain men still have the archaic belief that women belong in the kitchen behind the stove. Sadly, at times we are thought of as weak and uneducated so people have the incorrect perception of female police officers,” she stated.
Not always in battle mode, the reservist is an office manager when not in uniform, and cherishes moments with loved ones. Inspired by her cousins, aunts and what she calls a ‘bonus mom’, the Constable offers a glimpse at her softer side. “I love spending time with my crazy family,” she said, while revealing that when not at the shooting range she can be found reading or cooking.
Women’s Month is about equipping females with the tools to overcome the challenges society has boxed them into, and who better to dispense valuable ideas than someone who has walked the path. Constable Adams advised, “Be strong, learn to be assertive and don’t be afraid to speak your mind. Do not be afraid to fail, it’s part of life and how you learn the lessons that mould you into who you are destined to be. Believe that you deserve respect; always act with integrity.”
