CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL WORKERS’ DAY: STRENGTHENING GENERATIONS FOR A BETTER TOMORROW

By Tshegofatso Mogapi

• In recognition of International Social Workers Day, the Free State Department of Social Development celebrated the everyday heroes who dedicate their lives to uplifting individuals and families.
• A special event was held to recognise the indispensable role social workers play in bridging generational gaps, fostering unity and resilience, and sustainable well-being within communities.
• MEC for Social Development Mathabo Leeto presented special recognition certificates to individual officials for their outstanding performance in the five departmental districts in the Free State.

The Free State Department of Social Development proudly commemorated International Social Workers’ Day on 18 March 2025 in Bloemfontein under the theme ‘Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Well-being’.

The MEC for Social Development Mathabo Leeto joined social workers to celebrate these everyday heroes who dedicate their lives to uplifting individuals and families, recognising the indispensable role they play in bridging generational gaps, fostering unity and resilience, and creating sustainable well-being within communities by promoting intergenerational solidarity.

Social workers ensure that no one is left behind in the journey towards healing the victims of the social ills affecting society every day, and work hard to build a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Leeto awarded special recognition certificates to individual district officials for their outstanding performance in the five districts:

•       In the Fezile Dabi district, Sylvia Makgae was recognised for ensuring increased effectiveness and efficiency of social work practice.
•       Nombeko Nonquba, the district director from the Mangaung, was acknowledged for providing an enabling environment for supervision and ensuring competent and professional social work practices.
•       Maki Mphuthi from the Thabo Mofutsanyana district was recognised for boosting employee morale and internalising a culture of learning
•       In the Xhariep district, Thulani Mjacu was acknowledged for promoting efficient and professional social work services.
•       Sherill-Ann Farao from the Tshepong Victim Empowerment and Support Centre based in Bloemfontein was thanked for her efforts in ensuring increased effectiveness and efficiency of social work practice.
•       Thelma Maswine of the Lejweleputswa district was appreciated for elevating supervision roles to a significant level by demonstrating unique competence as a district.