An obligation to her community

Robyn Smith is a busy person. While raising her nine-year-old son, she volunteers at the YWCA in Halifax and works two part-time jobs. Her hard work has paid off as a graduate of the Bachelor of Social Work program.

“I have an obligation to my community,” says Ms. Smith. “I have the obligation to give the best life to my son. I want to model good choices for my son and my community.”

Ms. Smith knew she wanted to be a social worker. She has often volunteered with various groups that have been marginalized in society. She is a residential counselor for the Yarmouth Association for Community Residential Options (YACRO) Metro and Program Coordinator for the Employability and Life Skills Programs for at-risk youth and immigrant women at the YWCA.

“I have a heart for the work. I’ve gained a political platform through social work. It’s great to be in a program that follows through in enacting social justice. It’s been absolutely awesome.”

Ms. Smith was drawn to social work by the program’s commitment to fighting oppression. “Social work is about realizing human potential. It’s about supporting people from removing personal and systemic barriers. This program is for people who are dedicated to liberation and understanding themselves in the spectrum of privilege and oppression.”

Ms. Smith worked at the Department of Community Services for her field practicum placement. She hopes to work in the non-profit sector in the future. In the meantime, she will continue her journey and begin her Master of Social Work program this fall.

“This is one of the best experiences in my life. The program has been really flexible and fully supportive.”