Young blood heads Grassy Park CPF
Nicole Jacobus, the youngest woman to be elected the chairperson of the Grassy Park Community Police (CPF) has earned the support of her team who have vowed to “build bridges between the community and SAPS together.”
Ms Jacobus, 35, was given the nod for the top spot at the annual general election on Tuesday December 3.
“I am honoured to take on this new role. Community service has always been second nature to me, and stepping into this position feels like a continuation of the work I deeply value,” she said.
“Together, as the executive committee, we will strive to do our best. However, we acknowledge that meaningful progress takes time. Mistakes may happen along the way, but we are committed to learning and continuously improving. Our goal is to launch impactful projects and strengthen relationships with our partners and stakeholders. At present, we are brainstorming and refining existing initiatives to ensure their success.”
Ms Jacobus appeals to the community to continue working alongside the CPF.
“Great achievements are only possible when we collaborate. I want to be clear that I will not make promises we cannot keep, but I can promise our unwavering dedication to making a positive difference.”
As a young person, Ms Jacobus said she wants to see more youth actively involved.
“Your energy, ideas, and passion are vital to shaping the future of our community. Let us work together to build a better tomorrow.”
Ms Jacobus thanked the exiting executive committee.
“Thank you for you for your dedication and hard work. We are still looking forward to working with you in a different aspect. To the neighbourhood watches, your dedication to serving doesn't go unnoticed, to the SAPS members, thank you for constantly doing your best to be everywhere even when days are tough.”
Captain Wynita Kleinsmith, spokesperson for Grassy Park police, said: “We are looking forward to working with the new executive team. Nicole was the only person of the old CPF regime that we’ve previously worked with. We’ve also had a good relationship with the previous CPF exco as well.
Howard Downes, elected public relations officer on the executive committee, who had been involved with community services for more than 15 years, said: “I feel excited and privileged and honoured to be part of the CPF.
Mr Downes is serving as the chairperson of Diaz Village Neighbourhood Watch in Grassy Park and involved in various NGOs. “I feel I can contribute to make a difference where crime is concerned as well as to help build bridges between the community and SAPS.”
Mr Downes said he has been working with Ms Jacobus since she became secretary, then deputy chair of the Grassy Park CPF.
“When she was nominated (chairperson) I seconded it as I felt she was suitable for the role with her extensive experience, since she started as a young person in her 20s. Well done to her.”
The CPF executive committee works as a team, “And we will support her in her portfolio collectively,” said Mr Downes.
The elected members: chairperson: Nicole Jacobus, deputy chairperson: George Nelson, secretary: Charmaine Arendse, treasurer: Gabeebah Nackerdien, project co-ordinator: Faizel Abrahams, public relations officer (PRO): Howard Downes. Additional members: Mark Fisher, Yaseen Meyer and Yasier Gabier
