Community Care and Collective Healing in Social Work

What does it mean to practise social work rooted in culture, community, and collective care? In this episode, guest Thierry Kwizera, a social worker from Burundi, joins host Henglien Lisa Chen to explore how community-led models challenge dominant Western frameworks. From gender-based violence interventions to environmental social work, Thierry shares how culturally grounded, group-based approaches create space for empowerment and healing. Together, they reflect on the importance of centering local voices, respecting cultural norms, and resisting top-down international aid. A powerful conversation for anyone reimagining social work beyond individualism and towards sustainable, community-based change.