Celebrating Women: Constable Thabisa Ntyinkala, A Force to be Reckoned With

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women's month police force

Constable Thabisa Ntyinkala is the only female member of the Tactical Response Team in the South African Police Service and an inspiring example for her colleagues. Her firm countenance, exceptional fitness, and ability to match her male colleagues’ tempo have earned her respect and made her a force to be reckoned with. Ntyinkala emphasizes the importance of physical and mental strength for women in male-dominated fields and upholding professionalism at all times. Through her unwavering commitment, she is creating a path towards a more diverse and equal working environment in SAPS.

Who is Constable Thabisa Ntyinkala?

Constable Thabisa Ntyinkala is the only female member of the Tactical Response Team in the South African Police Service (SAPS) and serves as an inspiring example for her team. She is known for her fitness enthusiasm, firm countenance, and ability to match her male colleagues’ tempo seamlessly. Ntyinkala emphasizes the importance of physical and mental strength for women looking to break into male-dominated fields and upholding a professional demeanor at all times. Through her dedication and unwavering commitment, she is creating a path for a more diverse and equal working environment in SAPS.

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During Women’s Month, a moment of recognition is due for the only female member of the Tactical Response Team in the South African Police Service (SAPS), Constable Thabisa Ntyinkala. At 44 years old, this woman, a native of Khayelitsha, not only meets the high standards of her position but often exceeds them. She plays a pivotal role in protecting the people of South Africa, setting an inspiring example for her team.

A Bold Presence in SAPS

Ntyinkala is known within SAPS for her fitness enthusiasm and her firm, unyielding countenance, which she maintains consistently. This stern expression serves as a deterrent to those who may encounter her. Despite being the only female member of the SAPS Tactical Response Team in the Western Cape, Ntyinkala remains undeterred. Indeed, she flourishes in this male-dominated sphere, building strong relationships with her colleagues and matching their tempo seamlessly.

Ntyinkala commenced her journey with SAPS in September 2014 when she underwent basic training at the Mthatha SAPS Academy in the Eastern Cape. This venture set her career path towards the Cape Town Central Police Station, where she was given court-related responsibilities. She soon discovered a fondness for fitness-related activities such as tug of war and football, and it didn’t take long for her exceptional fitness abilities to attract attention.

A Steadfast Member of the Tactical Response Team

Impressed by her fitness, her superiors recommended her to join the SAPS Tactical Response Team. This prestigious police unit, recognized throughout the province, handles high-risk circumstances and requires round-the-clock operational readiness. Ntyinkala embraced this challenge and has since been a reliable, integral part of the group.

Ntyinkala’s guidance to women looking to progress in their careers is distinct and straightforward: exhibit their strength and don’t expect preferential treatment. She underlines the necessity for women to be robust, both physically and mentally, to achieve in areas traditionally dominated by men. She confidently states that she has never encountered a negative response when delivering a directive, whether to a teammate or a civilian.

Professionalism and Presentation: Key to Success

For Ntyinkala, the way one presents oneself is of utmost importance. One’s physical appearance, posture, facial expression, and operational readiness not only affect others’ perceptions but also influence personal morale and self-assuredness. She emphasizes the need to uphold a professional demeanor at all times.

Ntyinkala credits her faith as the foundation of her personal journey, stating it provides her sustenance. Her fitness routine plays a significant part in keeping her level-headed and grounded. Ntyinkala’s forthcoming adventure involves a six-week training course to select the new SAPS Tactical Response Team in the Western Cape.

Upholding Integrity and Exemplifying Excellence

In line with her unwavering commitment to her profession, Ntyinkala urges her colleagues to abide strictly by the oath they swear upon entering the South African Police Service. She is convinced that by doing so, it will aid in eradicating corruption within the SAPS, further bolstering the integrity of the organization she is devoted to.

Constable Thabisa Ntyinkala shines as a symbol of strength and commitment, not just for the women of South Africa, but for everyone striving for excellence in their chosen careers. Through her remarkable work and unwavering dedication, she is creating a path for a more diverse and equal working environment in the SAPS, demonstrating that gender forms no obstacle to success.

1. Who is Constable Thabisa Ntyinkala?

Constable Thabisa Ntyinkala is the only female member of the Tactical Response Team in the South African Police Service (SAPS) who serves as an inspiring example for her team and the women aspiring to break into male-dominated fields.

2. What is Ntyinkala known for in SAPS?

Ntyinkala is known for her fitness enthusiasm, firm countenance, and ability to match her male colleagues’ tempo seamlessly. She maintains a consistent stern expression that serves as a deterrent to those who may encounter her.

3. What is the Tactical Response Team?

The Tactical Response Team is a prestigious police unit recognized throughout the province that handles high-risk circumstances and requires round-the-clock operational readiness.

4. What advice does Ntyinkala give to women looking to progress in their careers?

Ntyinkala advises women to exhibit their strength and not expect preferential treatment. She emphasizes the necessity for women to be robust, both physically and mentally, to achieve in areas traditionally dominated by men.

5. What is the importance of professionalism in SAPS, according to Ntyinkala?

Ntyinkala emphasizes the need to uphold a professional demeanor at all times, as it not only affects others’ perceptions but also influences personal morale and self-assuredness.

6. What is Ntyinkala’s role in creating a diverse and equal working environment in SAPS?

Through her dedication and unwavering commitment, Ntyinkala is creating a path for a more diverse and equal working environment in SAPS, demonstrating that gender forms no obstacle to success. She urges her colleagues to abide strictly by the oath they swear upon entering the South African Police Service, aiding in eradicating corruption within the SAPS.

Lerato Mokena is a Cape Town-based journalist who covers the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene with a focus on emerging voices from Khayelitsha to the Bo-Kaap. Born and raised at the foot of Table Mountain, she brings an insider’s eye to how creativity shapes—and is shaped by—South Africa’s complex social landscape. When she’s not chasing stories, Lerato can be found surfing Muizenberg’s gentle waves or debating politics over rooibos in her grandmother’s Gugulethu kitchen.

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