![Cadet Firefighter Juandré Viviers value his new job. Cadet Firefighter Juandré Viviers value his new job.](https://www.westerncape.gov.za/sites/www.westerncape.gov.za/files/cadet_firefighter_juandre_viviers.jpg)
The future looks promising for 60 young persons who were employed full-time by the Overstrand Municipality in December 2014.
The recruits are previous beneficiaries of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and have gained valuable experience in the municipal traffic, law enforcement and fire fighting disciplines they are now serving. This opportunity has enabled three beneficiaries to look ahead at a future bright with possibility.
Traffic Warden Jay-Cee Marais (26) from Hawston said: “I can’t describe how excited and happy I am to have a permanent job. My hard work and dedication paid off and now I can look forward to making a contribution to road safety in my community.” Marais’s wish for the future is to study further at the Gene Louw Traffic College.
Cadet Firefighter Juandré Viviers (22) from Hermanus says the EPWP gave him the exposure to practise a career he loves. “I’m honoured to serve the community with pride and to make a difference. I value this opportunity bestowed on me and my role in the community. Being a firefighter brings joy to me as an ambassador to rescue people from dangerous situations.” Viviers says he is proud to carry his badge and looks forward to many years as a firefighter.
Assistant Law Enforcement Officer Courtney De Rhode (25) from Hermanus is delighted to wear his uniform every day; he is thankful he has a job and has the chance to be a role model for others in his community. “This opportunity brought meaning to my life and showed me it is possible to achieve my goals and dreams.” De Rhode hopes to reach the top rung in his career, but for now, is happy to patrol the beach area and keep others safe.
Richard Petersen, Chief Director of EPWP at the Department of Transport and Public Works, says the beneficiaries are in good hands as Overstrand Municipality is one of the best EPWP performing municipalities in the country. “This initiative was a good example of what can be achieved through a committed partnership between the different spheres of government.”
Byron la Hoe
Communication Officer
Department of Transport and Public Works
Tel: 021 483 9813
E-mail: Byron.laHoe@westerncape.gov.za
You can follow the Department of Transport and Public Works on Twitter: @WCGovTPW