As an active member of the Nova Scotia Association of Social Workers (as it was then known) since 1998—serving first as Program Chair and later as a member of the Board of Examiners—I developed a strong understanding of the Canadian Association of Social Workers and its vital role in advancing the profession across Canada.
Between 1984 and 2017, I served on three separate occasions as President of the Nova Scotia Association of Black Social Workers, an organization that maintained a relationship with the NSASW and was, at the time, the only association of Black social workers in Canada. In this capacity, I was well positioned to share and connect the work of both the NSASW and CASW with the ABSW members.
My direct involvement with CASW included contributing to a national project exploring elder abuse among minority ethnic groups, serving as both a book and film reviewer, and being honoured with the CASW Distinguished Service Award in 2004.
Following the completion of Wendy Keen’s term as Nova Scotia’s representative on the CASW Board, I assumed that role. I served as Treasurer from 2001 to 2005, and subsequently as President from 2005 to 2009. After the President’s position, I held the position of North America Vice President and Member-at-Large with the International Federation of Social Workers from 2006 to 2009. I was proud to be the first African Nova Scotian to serve in these leadership roles within CASW, bringing lived experience and a strong voice to issues of social injustice affecting people of African descent, while also recognizing shared experiences with Indigenous communities.
As CASW President, I traveled extensively across the country, speaking at both provincial and national conferences. One of the significant challenges during my tenure was the disengagement of Quebec from the Association, along with potential withdrawals by Ontario and Alberta. These developments posed a serious risk to the strength and unity of a national organization. Throughout this period, Executive Director Eugenia Morano was a pillar of strength, demonstrating exceptional leadership, work ethic, and deep organizational knowledge.
Among my most meaningful experiences with CASW was a meeting in Yellowknife, where we worked to ensure our Northern colleagues felt seen, valued, and supported. We had the opportunity to listen to their challenges and witness firsthand their commitment to making a difference in the lives of their clients.
Another highlight was attending the IFSW meetings and conference in Switzerland, as well as building connections with our American counterparts at the National Association of Social Workers and the National Association of Black Social Workers.
Congratulations to CASW for 100 years of existence! I am pleased to have been a part of your story!