Lentegeur teenager Nicole Myburgh, 16, might be young but she is determined to use her voice to foster safety in schools and her community.
The Grade 10 pupil at Summerdale High School in Lentegeur was recently appointed junior police commissioner at Lentegeur Police Station.
Over the coming months, she will work closely with Lentegeur police to raise awareness about social crime prevention at schools and raise safety concerns of school pupils in the precinct.
“I feel deeply honoured and excited. It is an incredible opportunity. As young as I am, I believe I can be an inspiration to kids younger and older than me. I believe we can be next leaders in this generation.
“I am eager to learn, bring a fresh perspective and actively participate in fostering a safer and more informed community,” she said.
While she has never been a victim of crime, Nicole said it is a real concern for many pupils.
“Learners face many challenges related to crime, violence, bullying and substance abuse. They often have access to or are under pressure to use drugs, alcohol or other substances.
“Schools and communities should work together to address these challenges, providing support services promoting safety and fostering a positive learning area.”
She said many parents don’t realise how easily accessible drugs are to some of their children.
“They have easy access to drugs through their peers, friends, social media. Some do it to try to fit in, or to deal with depression, stress, cyber bullying, and body shaming.
“Some do it to try out the latest trends, some even abuse meds prescribed by a doctor. Parents and guardians should openly discuss substance abuse and risks with their teens and monitor their behaviour and activities,” she advised.
Nicole looks forward to using her role to help organise workshops and presentations on crime prevention and safety tips, develop posters, fliers and social media campaigns to spread awareness among pupils.
“I want to encourage young people from my community who are affected by crime, and say you are not alone. There is help available. Your safety matter and you deserve to feel safe,” she said.
Nicole added that young people should be brave and speak up about issues that affect them.
“Your voice matters, no matter how young you are. You have the power to bring change and make a difference in your community. Don’t let anyone tell you, you are too young or too small to make an impact. Your unique perspective and ideas are needed to create safer and better communities for everyone,” she said.
Lentegeur Police Station Commander Colonel Umavathie Rameshwarnath said Nicole’s appointment is an opportunity to empower young women from the community.
“Nicole will be a spokesperson for the police at her school. She is going to be exposed to my work and spend time with me. We want to encourage girls at high school level to be strong. We also hope to extend this programme to other schools in the area,” said Colonel Rameshwarnath.
