The 2026 Best of Pretoria Awards has honoured Alpha Security Forum, making them the second runner-up for the Best Community Upliftment Organisation category.

The non-profit organisation connects residents, CPF structures, SAPS, TMPD, private security, businesses and community leaders through verified information, disciplined communication and practical action.

The organisation began with a simple idea to create safer neighbours, help make parts of Pretoria safer and more connected. It relies almost entirely on volunteers who give up their time for the cause.

Founding director Aris Ruyter said the recognition, coming alongside long-established Pretoria organisations and businesses, was a sign that the community’s efforts were being noticed.

“It tells us that people are seeing what is happening on the ground and, more importantly, that the community believes in what we are trying to build,” he said.

Ruyter credited the people behind the scenes.

“The award means more than just an award or a title. There are many volunteers and supporters behind Alpha who give their time, fuel, resources, and sometimes their sleep, without ever expecting recognition,” he said.

He said Alpha is not a security company; it is all about people working together, sharing information, responding when needed and finding practical ways to improve the community we all live in.

The primary aim and purpose of the forum is to reduce crime within its service areas and safeguard residents’ lives, properties, and peace of mind.

Ruyter said Alpha has always tried to be about collaboration rather than competition.

“We don’t care whose logo is on the vehicle or uniform when someone needs help. We want SAPS, TMPD, security companies, CPF structures, community organisations and residents working together.”

He said there is still a lot they want to achieve.

“Alpha has grown beyond only crime prevention and response, and we are increasingly looking at ways of improving and uplifting the broader community. We also try not to just talk about problems. If something can be done, we try to find a way to do it.”

Ruyter said recognition like this shows a step in the right direction, but there is still plenty of work ahead.

“Sometimes it is something big, like assisting during an emergency or helping apprehend a suspect. Other times it is something small – helping a resident, getting people together to solve a problem or simply knowing that somebody feels a little safer because people were willing to show up.”

He said this recognition or award belongs to all people and stakeholders involved.

“We do not do things for award or reward, but it’s all about the genuine care we have for the community and keep showing up. We do the work even when nobody is watching and when there is no recognition attached to it.”

Ruyter said if you make a genuine difference in people’s lives, the recognition will eventually look after itself.

He expressed gratitude to all the voters.

“Every vote meant that somebody saw what Alpha and its volunteers are doing and decided it was worth supporting. We genuinely appreciate that.

“But more than anything, thank you to the community that participates, contributes, patrols, reports, assists and supports us. Alpha only works because people choose to be part of it.”

People can find out more about Alpha Security Forum, get involved or support their work through their website alphasecurityforum.co.za.