An unexpected career

Social work; a path less traversed. One would think that being a social worker is a calling or that it requires a specific skill set. In Jasmina’s words, ‘It was by chance that I got into the sector, but I have always wanted to work in a people-oriented sector.’

She joined AWWA as a Community Outreach Worker nine years ago before furthering her studies to be a social worker. One thing led to another, and today, she oversees a team of 10 in the Admin and Operations section, ensuring that the Family Service Centre and Transitional Shelters are running like clockwork.

‘It was challenging in my initial years as a young social worker. Why would clients open up and share their struggles with me, a complete stranger? They are, after all, sharing the most vulnerable side of their lives’ Jasmina relieved her experience. ‘These challenges, however, taught me one vital lesson. The basis behind human relations boils down to one word – trust. Once established, the shackles that once held them back loosen, and you can see changes in their lives.’

A ground-up approach

When the opportunity to assume a managerial position knocked on her door, she took it up with trepidation. ‘It is one thing handling clients. It is another thing assuming a leadership role which involves people management and ensuring smooth operations of the centres. I had a transit from managing casework to corporate-related work, and all these happened in the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic’ Jasmina recollected.

A cloud of uncertainty shrouded her vision as she threaded into unfamiliar territory. Keeping her company and illuminating her path was non-other than her team. Jasmine humbly shared that there is no secret formula to building trust. ‘People know and can sense if one is sincere with their actions. All I had to do was to be myself, be genuine in wanting to care and look out for them. I am also thankful to be surrounded by big-hearted people who constantly support each other.’

Walking the talk

Jasmina stands firm on her belief that there should be a balance between work & personal life. To her, spending time with her family, going for evening walks, and indulging in self-care are insufficient. Making sure that her extended family – her colleagues – welfare is in check: now, that completes her.

She knows, from her experience as a social worker, that social work, as a profession, is akin to a mountaineer. There are arduous moments. There are times when you feel down in the dumps due to the intensity of the cases. That is why she surrounds her team with support pillars.

From after-work yoga sessions to impromptu evening walks with her staff, she makes it a point to engage them regularly to ensure their needs are met. ‘I treat them no differently from how I treat my loved ones. If I take care of my staff, they are better able to care for themselves and their clients,’ Jasmina narrated. ‘I am a task-oriented person. I still have to fulfil my duty as a manager, ensuring that our client’s issues are resolved. By practising what I believe in – extending the familial care to my staff – I am assured that my clients are in good hands.’

Teamwork makes the dream work

An environment that breeds positivity and prospect is a coveted treasure. Jasmina will hit her 10th anniversary with AWWA this year. ‘Over the years, I had the opportunity to take up multiple roles that honed my strengths and improved on my weaknesses.’ Jasmina concluded by acknowledging that her team gave her the support she needed to make it this far. ‘Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Their words of encouragement and support fuelled me to persevere to summit the mountain we were, and still are, climbing together.’