19/08/2026
CELEBRATING WOMEN’S MONTH: MEET VOUNIE CLOETE
As part of our Women’s Month celebrations, we shine the spotlight on Vounie Cloete, a dedicated member of the West Coast District Municipality (WCDM) family whose journey is a powerful example of commitment, growth and service to others.
With 20 years of service as a Committee Officer, Vounie has built a career that she describes as much more than just a job — it is a career she is genuinely proud of.
Our Media Liaison caught up with Vounie to learn more about her journey, her memories and what keeps her motivated as a WCDM employee.
* YOUR JOURNEY AT WEST COAST DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY STARTED MORE THAN 20 YEARS AGO. TELL US ABOUT IT.
My journey with the West Coast District Municipality started as a contract worker on 15 March 2004, a position I held until February 2006. During this time, I learnt a lot and began considering a longer career in local government.
On 3 April 2006, I was appointed as a Receptionist, and in June 2006 I joined Committee Services, where I have remained for the past 20 years.
Looking back, it has been a journey filled with learning, growth and many meaningful experiences.
* WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB?
I have been a Committee Officer at WCDM for the past 20 years, and for me, it is much more than just a job — it is a career that I am proud of.
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to learn a great deal, work with different people and develop a better understanding of how local government functions and how it connects with communities.
The best part of my work is definitely the people and the opportunity to make a contribution.
I enjoy knowing that the work I do, even though it is sometimes behind the scenes, contributes to the effective functioning of the organisation and ultimately to service delivery to communities across the West Coast.
* YOU WERE RECENTLY NOMINATED FOR MRS WEST COAST DM AT THE WCDM STAFF AWARDS. HOW DID THAT MAKE YOU FEEL?
Being nominated for Mrs West Coast was an incredible honour for me.
I was very emotional when I heard about the nomination because it showed me that people recognise not only my 20 years of service at the municipality, but also my involvement with people and my community.
The nomination made me realise that it is not always about being in the spotlight or standing in front. Sometimes it is simply about being there for others, listening, helping where you can, and treating people with respect and care.
I feel extremely grateful, humbled and proud of the nomination. It has also motivated me to continue making a positive difference in my workplace and community.
For me, it is not really about the title “Mrs West Coast”. It is about who you are as a person and the difference you make in the lives of others.
* WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING OUTSIDE OF WORK?
I enjoy playing dominoes and watching sport, especially rugby and tennis.
* RUGBY, YOU SAY? WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE TEAM?
“I support the All Blacks…”
* BIG RUGBY WEEKEND AHEAD?
Oooooo My nerves….
* TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR FAMILY.
We are a family of four — my husband, our daughter and our son. I am blessed to have a very supportive husband and family.
As a family, we enjoy travelling and going on family outings. Those moments together are very special to us.
* WHAT WOMEN’S DAY MESSAGE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE?
For me, Women’s Day is a reminder that women should never underestimate the value of their contribution.
Whether you are working behind the scenes, leading a team, raising a family or serving your community, your contribution matters.
My journey has taught me that success is not only about titles or recognition. It is about commitment, perseverance, kindness and the positive impact you have on the people around you.
I would encourage every woman to believe in herself, embrace every opportunity to grow and never be afraid to make a difference — even in the smallest ways.
* A MESSAGE FROM WCDM TO VOUNIE CLOETE
Thank you, Vounie, for your immense contribution to the success of WCDM.
We are proud to have you as part of our team and celebrate not only your 20 years of dedicated service, but also the person behind the service — a colleague who continues to contribute, support others and make a difference.