Bex Silver - Master of Social Work (Professional)

“After spending a year volunteering with displaced persons on the Thai-Myanmar border, I returned to New Zealand and wanted to get into a position where I could practically apply my passion for social justice in a frontline role. I have always been curious about the world around me, the unfair distribution of resources, and how we can create a fairer and more equitable society.

“I was drawn to the Master of Social Work Professional programme as I could see that it demonstrated a commitment to challenging structural injustice both within Aotearoa, and abroad. I believed that gaining registration as a social worker would open many doors for me to be involved in both frontline and policy work.

“I enjoyed learning about the different theoretical approaches to social work, and how these can guide practitioners to work collaboratively and holistically with clients. It provided me with the knowledge to help people navigate the system and support them through difficult times in their lives.

“The two field placements throughout the programme supported me to build my skills and helped to identify which field of practice I was most suited to. The programme draws from multiple disciplines; including psychology, anthropology, political science and criminology, which makes it so versatile.

“Through becoming a registered social worker, I have worked across various fields of social work, from housing to community and family social work, and now within the justice sector.

“In my current role, I work as a programme facilitator within a corrections facility. I’ve brought skills of rapport-building and taking a holistic approach to my work, where I understand the environmental and structural influences on those who have ended up in the justice system.

“I would recommend this programme to anyone who has a passion for social justice and supporting communities towards better outcomes.

“Alongside the theories and practical skills, lecturers within this programme encourage students to examine their own world views. This enables practitioners to be mindful of social work within a context of post-colonisation and their positions of power which can transform lives, for better or for worse.

“Social work is not just a career; it is a vocation. If you want to live your life in a way that is reflective, relevant and meaningful, the Master of Social Work (Professional) is for you.”