As South Africa marks Social Work Month, observed annually during the month of March, the spotlight turns to the men and women who work tirelessly behind the scenes to mend broken families, uplift vulnerable individuals and restore hope in communities facing social challenges.
For one dedicated social worker, Priscilla Mabena from the Gauteng Department of Social Development Geluksdal office, this month is more than just a commemoration. It is a moment of reflection and recognition.
“Social Work Month is a time to reflect on the work we do and celebrate the strides we take each day to positively impact lives,” said Mabena, echoing that social service practice goes unseen and without the recognition it deserves.
Working on the frontline for over five years, Mabena describes the journey as both challenging and rewarding. Her daily responsibilities range from counselling and mediation to conducting assessments, supervising cases and linking clients to much-needed resources.
Community outreach also forms a key part of her role, with programmes aimed at raising awareness and strengthening psychosocial support services. Mabena’s passion for the profession was shaped by personal experiences.
“Growing up in a township and being exposed to many social ills, I wanted to be part of the solution. Social work allows me to drive solution-based conversations through advocacy and education,” she explained.
Communities across Gauteng continue to grapple with pressing issues such as unemployment, poverty, substance abuse, family conflict and gender-based violence. These challenges often manifest in cases of child abuse and neglect, realities that social workers confront daily. Despite these hardships, the impact of social work is undeniable.
Mabena’s career highlight was working on a case involving siblings rescued from severe neglect and unsafe living conditions. Through intervention, counselling and alternative placement, the children were given a second chance.
“Years later, they are thriving in school, well cared for and protected. Being able to salvage a child’s future through present-day interventions is a win for the entire community.
“However, the profession is not without its own struggles. High caseloads, emotional burnout and a shortage of employed social workers continue to strain the system. The need for greater investment in resources, as well as stronger professional support, remains critical,” Mabena shared.
To cope with the emotional demands, Mabena relies on employee wellness programmes, peer support and personal self-care practices.
“Establishing boundaries and staying grounded is essential,” she noted.
Mabena also emphasised the importance of community involvement in strengthening social services.
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“When communities recognise the work we do, they begin to appreciate our role and can collaborate with us. We need people to report abuse, support victims without judgement and actively participate in building safer, more cohesive communities,” she said.
Challenging common misconceptions, Mabena stressed that her role as a social worker is not to separate families but to protect and strengthen them. She said that as social workers, they are here to build healthier communities made up of functional families.
For aspiring social workers, the message is clear: passion and resilience are non-negotiable.
“This profession requires courage. It is not always easy, but it is deeply fulfilling. Lead with empathy, integrity and a genuine desire to help others,” she said.
Mabena said she is motivated by the lives she has positively impacted.
“Even the smallest change can have a lasting effect, not just now, but for the future,” she said.
As Social Work Month continues, the Gauteng Department of Social Development celebrates its frontline workers, who play a positive role in building a more compassionate and resilient society.
Social worker Priscilla Mabena shares her journey of hope. Photo: Gauteng Department of Social Development
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