Dr. Smijo Sebastian
Assistant Professor
Rajagiri College of Management & Applied Sciences
– Secretary, KAPS Ernakulam Chapter
It was a matter of immense pride and privilege to represent India and be a participant in the International Conference on Social Work held in Kenya. This journey was particularly special to me as it marked my very first international travel experience, making the occasion both exciting and deeply meaningful.
As I reached the venue, I must admit that I felt a sense of anxiety and uncertainty. However, the organisers thoughtfully began the conference with an engaging ice-breaking session that immediately created an atmosphere of warmth, inclusiveness, and belonging. It was remarkable how people from different countries, cultures, and professional backgrounds were brought together as one community.
Being among social workers from across the globe filled me with immense professional pride. I truly experienced what it means to belong to a global family committed to social justice, human dignity, and collective well-being. The conference reaffirmed that, despite geographical boundaries, the values and aspirations of social workers remain deeply interconnected.
Presenting my paper on an international platform was a memorable and enriching experience. It provided me with an opportunity to share our perspectives, learn from others, and contribute to the global discourse on social work. The appreciation and constructive engagement from participants made the experience even more rewarding.
Perhaps the greatest blessing of the conference was the opportunity to network with professionals from different parts of the world. Listening to their experiences and understanding the realities of social work practice in diverse contexts offered invaluable insights. It became evident that many countries continue to face challenges in establishing strong professional organisations for social workers. Even where such bodies exist, their activities are often limited, and membership fees in certain associations remain prohibitively high.
These interactions made me appreciate, even more deeply, the remarkable work being carried out by the Kerala Association of Professional Social Workers (KAPS). The advocacy initiatives and professional contributions of KAPS, when presented in the international forum, received considerable appreciation and admiration. It was a proud moment to showcase the achievements of our association and the collective efforts of social workers in Kerala.
Overall, this experience has enriched me both personally and professionally. I return with new learnings, broader perspectives, and a renewed commitment to our profession. I sincerely thank KAPS for providing and nurturing opportunities that empower social workers to engage with the global community. I feel truly privileged and honoured to be a part of this vibrant and forward-looking association.I also express my heartfelt gratitude to the Management of Rajagiri College of Management and Applied Sciences for their constant support and encouragement, which made my participation in this prestigious international conference possible.
This journey was not merely an international visit; it was an affirmation that social work transcends borders, and that together we belong to a global movement striving for a more just, compassionate, and inclusive world.
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