What is Social Work about?

A Social Worker strives towards improving the quality of life of individuals, families and communities through research, crisis intervention, policy change, educational programs, direct practice , group therapy and community organizing.

Social Workers as a profession dedicate themselves to the quest of social justice, equality, working towards helping individuals, families, groups and communities affected by many issues including disability and poverty, illness and family issues - such as divorce, abandonment, abuse, unemployment and all other types of disadvantages found in society.

What does one have to do to become a Social Worker

In South Africa, Social Workers are trained professionals who study towards a four year degree and are required by law to have a license to practice.

Social Workers tend to be compassionate and empathetic individuals. Generally Social Workers have strong interpersonal, listening, organisational and problem solving skills. These are required to connect with the client, clients in a group, and a community on their level, be able to listen carefully to the client/s verbal and non-verbal communication such as facial expressions, body language and what the client/s imply when they speak. In other words, what is said by the client without him or her actually saying it.

Ingrid is a qualified Social Worker (BSW (Bachelor Social Work) Unisa) and has experience working with individuals and groups.

I speak English, Brazilian Portuguese, Hebrew and understand Spanish.