As the Greenwood Park community prepares to celebrate Women’s Day on Saturday, 9 August, a group of dedicated women is doing more than marking the occasion—they’re leading the fight against crime.
The Community Police Forum (CPF) Sub-Forum Two, led by Danusha Makan-Maharaj, continues its mission to make streets safer across Greenwood Park, Effingham, Avoca, and Redhill. The CPF works closely with Greenwood Park SAPS, private security, and neighbourhood watch groups to respond to rising incidents of muggings and robberies, which have placed the area among North Durban’s high-crime zones.
Taking the helm as chairperson, Makan-Maharaj says she’s faced the same challenges many women encounter in male-dominated spaces—but she’s undeterred.
“Our executive committee has 14 members, and the core leadership roles are all held by women,” she said. “Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, Vice Treasurer, PRO, and Youth Desk Chair—all female. My motivation for gathering strong women to lead was simple: we’re natural leaders in both our personal and professional lives, and our sense of duty brought us together.”
She believes that having women in key roles has brought structure, action, and heart to the CPF’s work.
“Whether it’s helping the needy, attending crime scenes, organising events, supporting other women-led organisations, or patrolling the streets—these women get it done.”
Makan-Maharaj is also passionate about empowering more women to get involved. “We’re working on a programme to help women in our area grow stronger in every area of life. We’re encouraging more to join us in taking back our streets.”
Her wish list includes seeing more young women join the CPF, establishing a safe space for crime victims, and involving professionals such as psychologists, medics, attorneys, and educators in the forum’s work.
To young women interested in leadership and community safety, her advice is clear:
“Nothing is off limits. If you’re driven and passionate about serving your community, the CPF is the perfect place to grow and make a real difference. You’ll gain exposure to all areas of law enforcement—and there’s always something new to learn.”
The CPF encourages all residents to show their support and learn more about community safety by attending Crime Awareness Day on 23 August at Parkhill Secondary School. It promises to be an informative and empowering event for the whole community.
As we celebrate Women’s Day this Saturday, 9 August, we honour the fearless women of Greenwood Park and beyond who lead, protect, and uplift their communities every day. To all our readers— Happy Women’s Day! May your voices be heard, your efforts be seen, and your strength continue to inspire lasting change.
