SOCIAL WORKERS MONTH: CELEBRATING THE DEDICATION OF SUKUMANI

By Tshepo Motholo 

• The Gauteng Department of Social Development has used Social Workers’ Month to acknowledge the important work they do to improve the lives of others.
• Social work supervisor Mpule Sukumani, who is based in the Geluksdal office, near Brakpan, is a firm believer in a person-centred approach to social work, empowering clients to recognise their own potential and abilities.
• Sukumani is driven to ensure sidelined voices are amplified and their rights upheld.

March is recognised as Social Workers’ Month, a time to celebrate the selfless dedication and hard work of social workers who make a profound impact on the lives of individuals and communities.

The Gauteng Department of Social Development is taking this opportunity to honour its social workers, and acknowledges the important work they do to improve the lives of others.

One such social worker is Mpule Sukumani, whose journey in the field of social work began in 2010 when she took on her first role at the Central Gauteng Mental Health Society.

There, she worked with children affected by mental health issues, an experience that deeply shaped her understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals.

Her work with various organisations and non-profit organisations (NPOs) on mental illness training further fueled her passion for social work, motivating her to continue contributing to this essential field.

In 2011, Sukumani’s dedication to making a difference led her to join the Gauteng Department of Social Development.

She was stationed at Zonkizizwe, where she worked on a wide range of cases, including foster care supervision, intake, and crisis intervention. Through her empathy, resilience, and unwavering commitment, Sukumani made a positive impact on the families and communities she served.

Her consistent hard work did not go unnoticed, and in 2021, Sukumani was promoted to the position of supervisor.

Leading with passion and integrity

She was deployed to the Geluksdal office, where she continues to lead with integrity and passion.

Throughout her career, Sukumani has been a true advocate for social justice, always prioritising the needs of her clients.

Sukumani is a firm believer in a person-centred approach to social work, which focuses on empowering clients to recognise their own potential and abilities.

She is committed to ensuring that every individual she works with is heard, understood, and supported, and advocates for inclusive practices, striving to ensure that sidelined voices are amplified and their rights upheld.

By emphasising empowerment, she helps clients take control of their own lives and make informed decisions for their future.

As part of her work in social development, Sukumani concentrates her efforts on several key areas. She dedicates the largest portion of her time to foster care, helping to ensure that vulnerable children are placed in safe and supportive environments.

Family reunification is also a key focus, as she works diligently to support families in reuniting and strengthening their bonds.

In addition, her work in mental health and individual supervision showcases her diverse skill set and her commitment to holistic care for those in need.

Ongoing training

Sukumani understands that the field of social work is ever-evolving, and she is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest practices, policies, and trends.

She actively seeks opportunities for professional development, earning continued professional development points through training and workshops.

Her dedication to learning extends to her colleagues as well, as she organises peer supervision sessions and participates in the supervisors’ learning and support forum.

Her commitment to both personal and professional growth highlights her deep sense of responsibility to the field of social work and to those she serves.

Beyond her work as a social worker, Sukumani also finds time to pursue her passion for sports and outdoor activities.

She is a proud member of the Gauteng Social Development Athletics Club, where she participates in a variety of athletic events.

Hiking and running are not just hobbies for Sukumani, they serve as a way for her to recharge, stay active, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Her commitment to personal well-being enhances her ability to be fully present for her clients and makes her an even stronger advocate for social change.

The Gauteng Department of Social Development proudly celebrates Sukumani and all social workers who contribute so much to the well-being of the province’s communities.

Social Workers’ Month is a time to recognise the invaluable contributions of these unsung heroes who continue to make the world a better place, one individual and family at a time.