Fighting crime, enforcing by-laws and directing traffic have enabled Joburg Metro Police Department’s Sergeant Dangisile Conny Nkuna (41) to have a bird’s eye view of life in the streets of the bustling city. Soon after her recent promotion to sergeant, Sgt Nkuna’s maternal instincts kicked in when she helped a mother deliver a bouncing baby in the streets of Northcliff, Region B. She says she has had remarkable opportunities to do a lot of meaningful things that align with her character. She says encouraging and supporting her colleagues to achieve their full potential in making a difference in the lives of residents is what drives her.

“I believe in fairness, equality and by stepping into this new role gives me a profound capacity in providing guidance and enforcing law.

 It is unfair for criminals to commit heinous crimes and get away with it. I believe in enforcement of justice and law and that has always been my motivation and drive,” she says.

Sgt Nkuna grew up in Giyani, Limpopo, and enrolled at the University of Johannesburg to study Paralegal Studies, a Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice and Law. Policing has always been at the top of her mind.

She joined the JMPD in 2007. “Being a female police officer in a male-dominated career and being expected to bring resolutions has been challenging, especially adapting and interacting with the public.”

“I vividly remember in 2020 while on duty I encountered a mass shooting, which turned out to be quite a gruesome incident I’ve ever experienced in my career. 

I thought to myself, ‘Ok, this is the time to protect, stand tall and do my work despite being terrified’,” she says.

The doting mother of three is currently doing a Master’s in family law. The pursuit of public safety and giving back to the community in all aspects are evident in her career path and work history.  

“I consider myself very lucky. This job has provided me with flexibility to be around my family while fulfilling responsibilities as a sergeant in charge. 

There is so much you can do if you set your mind to it. Once you find what interests you, you should explore it and never look back,” she says.

Sgt Nkuna believes that change can be accelerated in the City if all officials are passionate about what they do and always put residents first.

“Residents are our real bosses. Not the officials in offices,” she says.

Written by Getrude Mamabolo

10/03/2023