March is Social Workers’ Month, when we celebrate the dedication and hard work of social workers who impact the lives of people and communities.
The Gauteng Department of Social Development (DSD) is honouring Mpule Sukumani, a social worker from the DSD Geluksdal office who has devoted her career to improving the lives of others.
Sukumani’s journey began in 2010 when she took on her first role at the Central Gauteng Mental Health Society. There, she worked with children with mental health issues, an experience that shaped her understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals.
Her work with various organisations and NPOs on mental illness training further fuelled her passion for social work, motivating her to continue contributing to this essential field.
In 2011, Sukumani joined the Gauteng DSD. She worked at Zonkizizwe on several critical cases, including foster care supervision, intake and crisis intervention. Through empathy, resilience and commitment, Sukumani positively impacted those she served.
Her hard work did not go unnoticed because, in 2021, Sukumani was promoted to supervisor and deployed to the Geluksdal office, where she continues to lead.
ALSO CHECK: Frustrated Kwa-Thema residents build their own speed humps
Throughout her career, Sukumani has advocated for social justice, always prioritising the needs of her clients. She believes in a person-centred approach to social work, which empowers clients to recognise their potential and abilities.
She is committed to ensuring everyone she works with is heard, understood and supported. She advocates for inclusive practices, ensuring sidelined voices are amplified and their rights upheld.
By emphasising empowerment, she helps clients take control of their lives and make informed decisions for their future.
As part of her work in social development, Sukumani concentrates on several key areas. She dedicates most of her time to foster care, helping to ensure that vulnerable children get placed in safe and supportive environments.
Family reunification is also a key focus because she works to support families by reuniting them and strengthening their bonds. Her work in mental health and individual supervision showcases her diverse skills and commitment to holistic care for those in need.
Sukumani understands that social work is ever-evolving and is committed to staying current with the latest practices, policies and trends.
She actively seeks professional development, earning continued professional development points through training and workshops.
Her dedication to learning extends to her colleagues because she organises peer supervision sessions and participates in the supervisors’ learning and support forums.
Her commitment to personal and professional growth highlights her sense of responsibility in social work and to those she serves.
Sukumani also finds time to pursue her passion for sports and outdoor activities. She is a member of the Gauteng Social Development Athletics Club. However, hiking and running are not just hobbies for Sukumani; they are 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 DSD celebrates Sukumani and all social workers who contribute to the well-being of communities.
Social Workers’ Month is a time to recognise the contributions of these unsung heroes who continue to make the world a better place, one person and family at a time.
ALSO CHECK: Applying for a South African ID? Follow these quick steps from Home Affairs
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
