Herold's hero honoured

Update

GEORGE NEWS - A lifelong dream became a national reality for Warrant Officer Wendy Lee (51) of the Herold Satellite Police Station on Monday 26 January when she was named the woman of the year at the police's national Excellence Awards in Bloemfontein.

Born in Parkdene and an alumna of George Secondary School, Lee overcame humble beginnings and personal challenges to dedicate 23 years to serving her community, earning admiration not only for her police work, but for the projects and programmes she has led to inspire and protect rural communities.

She had always dreamt of becoming a police officer, though it was never really on the cards. "I grew up in a household in which I had to work weekend jobs to support my family. It wasn't easy," she recalls.

Before her police career, Lee honed leadership skills through women's rugby with the Young Roses Rugby Club, for which she was part of the coaching staff for women's rugby development.

Lee joined the police force at the age of 28. Her son, Wade, was born after she started her career, and as a single mother, he has been her support and inspiration throughout her journey. "Wade has always encouraged me and stood by me throughout. I have always wanted to make a difference in people's lives," she says.

She spent her first five years in the force in George before transferring to Herold as a training officer for police students.

"At Herold, Captain Morné Heunis inspired me to make a difference by initiating projects to combat crime."

Lee says receiving this award still feels unreal. "God opened this path, and all the honour goes to Him. It's very overwhelming, but the award opens doors for me to inspire others. I want to continue with my work and make a difference. By changing one life, you can change a household."

She recalls a time when health and personal challenges left her feeling overwhelmed, but she bounced back after initiating a youth project that inspired her. Since then, Lee has organised numerous youth programmes, gender-based violence initiatives and projects for the youth and elderly.

"The most satisfying moments are when I can serve a community to the best of my ability. Sometimes, someone just needs someone to listen," she says.

"What motivates me to go the extra mile is the legacy of officers before me. Building on this legacy is an honour. I will continue to go beyond the call of duty to make a change in others' lives. You are only as strong as the team you work with."

Her goal is to expand awareness projects and gender-based violence programmes in rural areas.

She thanks everyone who supported her and contributed to her success. "Giving up is not an option when you serve a community."

Lee's community work has also been supported by Rev Gert Nothnagel of the Dutch Reformed Church in Herold, who met her as a young officer.

"Over the past 10 years, it has been remarkable to watch her grow into a dedicated leader in the community. She gives her all to care for and support others and goes out of her way to ensure community initiatives succeed. Wendy is the driving force behind countless projects, and without her initiative and perseverance, many would not have happened."

Another local hero, Reservist Constable Nico Luiters (56) from Pacaltsdorp, who was awarded as reservist of the year last year, came second at this year's Excellence Awards.

The National Excellence Awards recognise and honour outstanding performance, exceptional commitment to community relations, innovation, professionalism and acts of bravery within the South African Police Service.

Reservist Constable Nico Luiters (56) from Pacaltsdorp walked away with second place at this year's Excellence Awards in the category of reservist of the year.