When choosing a career path, young adults often believe that if they have a passion for helping people, a career as a social worker is a good decision. Social work, especially in Africa, requires a number of unique skills with which to cope and assist those who are in need.

If a career in social work is your future, it is important to understand exactly what a social worker does and how they assist the communities in which they live. Social work, when described in the media, is the assistance of families, children and communities who are struggling with a variety of challenges. Often, the gritty side of social work is left out of the media, giving young adults a false impression of what it truly means to be a social worker in Southern Africa. Did you know that in 2013/14, an average of 51 children were raped per day¹; that in 2013, there were 230 000 asylum-seekers awaiting decision as to whether they could live in South Africa²; and that citizens in rural and underdeveloped areas have no access to clean water, schooling or medical care? In essence, the role of a social worker is to  provide assistance, protection and support to those who are affected by injustices and social crises, just a few of which were named above.

If you’re searching for job opportunities or are interested in pursuing your studies in social work, take a look at the following advice on what it means to be a social worker in Southern Africa:

The Role of a Social Worker

Young graduates often believe that if they search for NGO jobs and end up in a position within a reputable organization, that they will be guaranteed a desk job and a substantial salary. However, both of those only come after years of experience in the field. The role of a social worker can be defined as someone who provides protection, support and assistance to individuals, families and children who are vulnerable, in need or are enduring a crises. With a qualification in social work, your role may also include the diagnoses and treatment of mental, behavioral and emotional concerns. It is also important to remember that social workers are either required to live in the community to which they provide their services or should be willing to travel in and out of an area or community on a daily basis.

The Challenges

As rewarding as social work can be, the role comes with a fair amount of challenges. Not only do social workers need to be prepared for the crises that they may face within a community, but they also need to be aware of the toll that the role takes on their personal health. Language barriers, racism, xenophobia and violence are also cause for concern when working with a range of different communities. Social workers are also faced with the challenge of limited resources, financial aid and facilities in which to perform their roles.

The Benefits

Despite the challenges that a social worker may face in Southern Africa, the benefits outweigh the trials. However, these benefits cannot be measured in salary or incentives but rather emotional satisfaction of doing something that makes the world a more positive place. For those who feel that their purpose is to serve and assist others, the benefits are immeasurable.

When it comes to graduate recruitment in the NGO sector, it is best to keep your eyes open for job opportunities on job portals. Not only will this ensure secure recruitment, but it will also ensure that you are able to find a job that best suits your needs and skillset.

Summary

Social work is a career driven by passion, and requires a unique skillset with which to cope with the unique type of social challenges that face South African society. Here is what you need to know about what it means to be a social worker in Southern Africa.