Brig. Herna Els reflects on the start of her journey, saying during her school years she was uncertain about what career path she wanted to follow. “I initially enrolled to study something completely different, but I found my way into the South African Police Service.

“From there, my career grew, and I am blessed to be where I am today.” Hard work and dedication had been key to her career progression. She believes opportunities for women have improved significantly over the years.

When she joined the police in 1988, women were scarce in the organisation. Since then the police service has made significant strides in promoting equity and equality in the workplace.

Brig. Herna Els of the FCS. Photo supplied

However, Els said significant barriers still exist. She noted many women still face challenges balancing professional careers with family responsibilities. Being a wife or mother can make it difficult for some women to pursue career opportunities.

Pursuing a career often requires personal sacrifices. Els recalled spending time away from her family while advancing her career. “I had to work away from my husband and children in a different town, and that was a very big sacrifice I had to make. One has to make special commitments in order to make it work.”

Having served in the police service for 38 years, Els has been inspired and mentored by many people throughout her career. She credits Maj. Gen. Jan Tsotetsi, her former commander in the Thabo Mofutsanyana district in Bethlehem, as one of her greatest mentors.

“We work mainly with vulnerable members of the community, particularly women and children who have been violated in the most personal and invasive ways imaginable.

“What motivates me is to know that every day, I and my component are able to really make an impact in the lives of those victims, to assist them, to bring justice for them,” she added.

Her proudest achievement is her appointment as the provincial head of het unit. “When my appointment in my current post was announced, that was definitely a very special moment that made me proud.”

There is still room for improvement, with limited resources remaining one of the biggest challenges. She encouraged people to further their education and careers, saying many are capable of taking on greater responsibilities and making a bigger impact, but choose to remain stagnant.

Els urged people in abusive relationships to seek help, saying support is available and no one should feel they have to remain in an abusive situation. Domestic abuse not only harms women, but also affects children, who may grow up believing such behaviour is a normal part of relationships.

Looking ahead, Els hopes to earn another promotion and continue serving in a more senior leadership role.

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa sm

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline at 066 487 1427.