The womanity host Dr Amaleya had an interview with Prof Bernadine Benson
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On Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka interviews Professor Bernadine Benson, who shares her journey from policing to academia.
Prof Benson reflects on a challenging childhood marked by instability, which fueled her drive for excellence and led her to join the South African Police Service at 17. Rising to Lieutenant Colonel, her career was shaped by discipline and authority, but also a rigid identity tied to her rank.
A turning point came when she realised her identity was externally defined, prompting a bold transition into academia at University of South Africa. This shift sparked personal growth, helping her develop emotional intelligence, empathy, and a more reflective leadership style.
She discusses challenges faced in male-dominated environments, the realities of art and heritage crime, and the risks of adopting technology in policing without proper theoretical grounding. Prof Benson emphasizes the importance of ethical values, Ubuntu, and education in addressing societal and policing challenges.
She credits her success to faith, family, and mentorship, and encourages others to keep learning, embrace discomfort, and define success through humanity rather than titles.
Prof Benson reflects on a challenging childhood marked by instability, which fueled her drive for excellence and led her to join the South African Police Service at 17. Rising to Lieutenant Colonel, her career was shaped by discipline and authority, but also a rigid identity tied to her rank.
A turning point came when she realised her identity was externally defined, prompting a bold transition into academia at University of South Africa. This shift sparked personal growth, helping her develop emotional intelligence, empathy, and a more reflective leadership style.
She discusses challenges faced in male-dominated environments, the realities of art and heritage crime, and the risks of adopting technology in policing without proper theoretical grounding. Prof Benson emphasizes the importance of ethical values, Ubuntu, and education in addressing societal and policing challenges.
She credits her success to faith, family, and mentorship, and encourages others to keep learning, embrace discomfort, and define success through humanity rather than titles.
