Central SA
Recreating the image of social work in SA─── HEIDRÈ MALGAS 10:13 Wed, 17 May 2023
The newly established Network for ‘Young’ Social Workers (YSWN) in South Africa was launched in partnership with Metropolitan at the University of the Free State (UFS) at the Kovsie Kerk, Bloemfontein campus.
The Young Social Workers in South Africa’s founder and president, Aubrey Moeketsi, said the launch was attended by different heads of departments from the Department of Education in the Free State.
Makgotso Mbuyisa, Nkensani Shibambu, Prof. Roelf Reyneke, Bukelwa Qwelane, and Mr Gustav Wilson.
“The main purpose for the establishment of the network is to re-create a new image of social work in South Africa. The profession has in the past suffered from a terrible public image. Our level of professionalism, report writing, and other ethical issues need urgent attention,” said Moeketsi.
He said their organisation's main objective is to increase the relevance, respect, and dignity of social workers in South Africa and to serve as a network for change, growth, and impact.
Moeketsi, a social worker by profession, explained that he first conceptualised the idea back in 2018 while he was still completing his Honours degree at the UFS.
"The need to create efficient, and well-managed transition from varsity to the corporate working world is a much-needed engagement."
The term ‘Young’ is not indicative of age but time in the field. Moreover, the Network is not only exclusive to those who just entered the field of practice, but it is open to all qualified social workers across all ages who would like to grow, impact and change the image of social work in South Africa. This also extends to all Social Services Professionals in the field such as Auxiliary Social Workers, Child and Youth-Care Workers, Student Social Workers, Writers and Researchers in the Social Sciences space, as well as institutions that offer Social Work as a major, are all welcome.
He says the next step since the launch is Nationwide-Chapter-Launch-Campaigns which will also include the SADC countries.
“Some of the Network’s initiatives will include Research and Development, Mentorship Programmes, Community CSI and engagement projects, Finance and Social Entrepreneurship programmes, GBVF, HIV and Aids programmes, Marriage and Relationships, Mental Health and Wellness, Trauma, and Care, CPD Training Workshops, Men and Boys Programmes, Women and Teens Projects, and many more.”
