UWI Social Work Students Shine a Light on Hidden Struggles
Each March, something meaningful unfolds at The UWI St Augustine campus. The Faculty of Social Sciences undercroft becomes more than just a busy walkway. It transforms into a space of advocacy, healing and community-building as first-year social work students host the annual World Social Work Day Expo.
Since 2013, this event has allowed students to step into the real world of social work, putting their studies into action as they engage directly with their peers on issues that matter.
World Social Work Day is officially recognised across the globe on the third Tuesday in March, with events taking place from UN headquarters in New York and Geneva to communities worldwide. At UWI St Augustine, the Social Work Programme has built its own tradition by observing the day on the following Thursday, which this year was March 20. For the students, it is an opportunity to create real conversations and offer meaningful support to their campus community.
Rooted in Visibility and Care This year’s international theme, “Strengthening Intergenerational Collaboration”, inspired the students to develop their own local focus, “We See You”. These simple words carried profound meaning, capturing the heart of what social work stands for, recognising and supporting those whose struggles often go unnoticed.
The expo highlighted issues that many students on campus quietly face, including dating violence, harassment, mental health challenges, and the importance of self-care. By addressing these topics openly, students created a space where conversations could take place safely and honestly.
“We wanted to highlight issues that people do not always feel comfortable talking about,” shared first-year social work student Sherion Rogers. “It is about letting people know they are not alone, and that others see and care about what they are going through.”
Interactive Advocacy in Action The students designed a variety of interactive activities to engage visitors and encourage reflection. Confession booths invited participants to share their experiences anonymously, offering a safe outlet for personal stories. Visitors were also encouraged to write down negative self-talk and exchange it for uplifting affirmations, while games and self-care activities promoted positive mental health habits.
“It is one thing to learn about these issues in class, but engaging with people directly brings the learning to life,” Rogers explained.
The expo attracted a steady flow of visitors throughout the day, drawing not only students from across the Faculty of Social Sciences, but also staff and students from other faculties, along with support staff who joined in the conversations and activities. The undercroft was filled with energy, empathy and a shared sense of purpose.
A Tradition of Leadership and Mentorship At the heart of this annual event is Social Work lecturer Dr Karene-Anne Nathaniel-DeCaires, who introduced the practicum expo in 2013. Each year, she works closely with her students, guiding them as they bring the expo to life and navigate their first real-world experience in the field.
“Dr Nathaniel-DeCaires really encouraged us, especially those of us who were nervous at first,” said final-year student Jerissa Sennon, who participated in the 2023 expo under the theme “Be Well”.
Sennon’s cohort created a range of engaging activities, from a positivity wall to self-care bingo and anonymous message exchanges, all designed to promote hope and encouragement.
“It was rewarding to see people leave feeling a little lighter and more positive,” she recalled.
A Meaningful Learning Experience While the expo continues to make an impact, it remains largely student-funded, with students and Dr Nathaniel-DeCaires covering the costs for materials, banners, T-shirts and other essentials. Yet their commitment has never wavered, fueled by a shared belief in the importance of the work they are doing.
“I hope the event continues to grow and that, with more support, future first year students can keep expanding and reaching even more people on campus,” Rogers said.
This year, the Counselling and Psychological Services (CAPS) unit provided valuable support by equipping each table with information about on-campus mental health resources, ensuring that students who needed further assistance knew where to turn.
For the students, the practicum offers invaluable preparation for their future roles as social workers. “The expo gives us real experience advocating for people, educating others, and working through real situations we will face in the field,” Rogers added.
As Sennon prepares for graduation, she carries forward the lessons learned through her practicum experience. After completing her external practicum at the Children’s Authority, she hopes to continue working with children in need.
“It was a great learning experience, and I hope to continue making a difference for vulnerable children,” she said.
