Cape Town: Safety and Security Directorate of the City of Cape Town hosted a career expo in Atlantis and welcomed over a hundred learners, young people and residents that flocked in. The expo was organized in collaboration with key partners, with an aim to unlock the potential and connect the youth to a network of opportunities.
There were various departments within the directorate who were present at the expo such as – Traffic Services, Metro Police, Law Enforcement, Fire & Rescue Service, Disaster Risk Management Centre and also the Public Emergency Community Centre.
Additionally, the Metro Police K9 Unit and Equestrian Unit conducted displays and engaged attendees about career options that included how to become a rider or a K9 handler.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Safety and Security – Alderman JP Smith said that everyone who attended the expo gained insights into the inner workings of these departments and the requirements to join in keeping their neighborhoods safer.
Smith also mentioned the essential role of volunteers that was highlighted and how they contribute to safer and stronger communities. He said that he was encouraged by the turnout, as the dedicated officers and departments showcased that safety is for everyone’s concern and they can’t do it alone.
The representatives of Neighborhood Watch were also there to motivate young people and helped them in keeping their communities safe, while the Fire and Rescue Service of the City of Cape Town showed off its Reservist Firefighter Programme, which provides structured training for committed community members who wish to serve in a volunteer capacity.
Attendees there, also has access to a wide range of exhibitors and activations, which included other departments of the city such as – academics, the South African Police Service and Western Cape Government Departments.
The participants received guidance on CV writing, how to access digital resources, apply for City jobs and gain an understanding of the City of Cape Town’s recruitment processes. The Ward Councillor – Allister Lightburn said that the expo was a one-stop opportunity for young people to connect with the institutions in shaping communities.
Considering this, Councillor Lightburn stated that he made the request for the expo as many young people in Atlantis are keen to make a positive impact on their community and have enquired about being a part of the Safety and Security Directorate.
Furthermore, the event provided them with the information they need to make a career choice in that direction, as they are also able to interact with men and women who are already on the ground and are learning about the realities of the job first-hand.
“I am sure I will see many of them in uniform in the years to come,” said Councillor Allister Lightburn.