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Social Workers Matter

Social Workers Matter

Written by: Dr. Sylvia
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About this listen

Welcome to Social Workers Matter with Dr Sylvia Smith, where we explore the realities and celebrate the successes of social work practice, management and education.


A few words from Dr. Sylvia on her background and Social Workers Matter


I began my social work career at 16yrs old when I embarked on my first training course in social care. I now have over 35yrs of experience in social work; practice, leadership/management and education. Bringing a wealth of knowledge, skills and passion to my work and I want to convey these attributes in my Social Workers Matter podcast.


I am passionate about 'reclaiming social work' and will be exploring the realities and celebrating the successes in this profession.


I invite you to join my guests and me for insightful discussions, sharing of professional experiences and much, much wisdom in all things social work. If you're thinking about joining the profession, are newly qualified practitioners or a seasoned professional, this podcast is for you.

© 2025 Dr Sylvia B Smith
Political Science Politics & Government Science Self-Help Social Sciences Success
Episodes
  • I'm a new original - Antonia (Amja) Lee In Conversation
    Nov 19 2025

    Welcome to this new episode of Social Workers Matter, my guest today is Antonia Amja Lee where creativity meets resilience and empowerment! Join us as we dive into Amja’s inspiring journey —a self-taught artist and motivational speaker who has transformed her life through art after overcoming the shadows of domestic abuse. In today’s episode, Amja introduces her innovative framework, the Self-Soothing Creative Steps, and shares how creativity can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth and advocacy.

    Prepare to be moved as Amja discusses how her artwork resonates deeply with audiences, tackling profound themes of self-love, cultural beauty standards, and Black identity. She reveals the transformative power of visual art to express complex ideas and foster understanding in our communities.

    We explore her remarkable transition from focusing on trauma to embracing joy as a vital tool for healing and advocacy. Interestingly, discover her experiences in boxing and her current project, "Journey to the Ring," which honours stories of empowerment through creativity and movement.

    In this episode, Amja discusses:

    - Art as a Trauma Recovery Tool

    - Mindfulness and Personal Growth

    - The Power of Art to Connect and Inspire

    - Meaning and Audience Collaboration in Art

    - Black Artistry and Identity

    - Authentic Black Storytelling Through Art

    - Reclaiming Power Through Joy

    - Creative Empowerment Through Movement

    Amja's passion and joy are infectious, and her unwavering belief in her mission shines through every word. So, get ready to be inspired as we welcome Amja Lee—her love and light are sure to ignite your creative spirit!

    https://1drv.ms/b/c/6ae3883c84b04dc2/IQAAJLNZIG8TQbloh6SghJfaAXIl9rLnTTat1i6hymuDCashttps

    mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ui=2&ik=f0b9e36446&attid=0.0.1&permmsgid=msg-f:1848875935329232224&th=19a886de0f112560&view=att&zw&disp=inline


    www.amjaunabashedly.com
    amja@amjaunabashedly.com
    "Let Art Be Your Becoming"



    • Do share your feedback at: adosylv@gmail.com
    • Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/groups/412169436067530
    • Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners!
    • Join us and remember—social workers matter!
    • Website: www.inclinetrainingconsultants.co
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • In Conversation with Professor Prospera Tedam SFHEA
    Nov 5 2025

    In Conversation with Professor Prospera Tedam SFHEA

    Join me for an inspiring conversation with the remarkable Professor Prospera Tedam, from the School of Social Policy, Social Work and Social Justice at University College Dublin. Professor Tedam takes us on a journey through her career spanning both academia and frontline practice, sharing insights which are sure to resonate with social work professionals, students, and those passionate about social justice.

    Professor Tedam opens up about her fascinating five-year experience working in the United Arab Emirates, offering her perspectives on how social work practice translates across different cultural contexts and what she learned from this vital experience.

    Professor Tedam is passionate about school social work as a specialism. She discusses:

    • The tremendous value this field brings to children and their families
    • How school-based social work creates impact in the lives of vulnerable children
    • Why school placements offer enriching and invaluable learning experiences for social work students

    Professor Tedam created the MANDELA Model, which was designed to support and enhance the experiences of student social workers, with particular sensitivity toward Black and minoritised students who are not well served. Hear the story behind its creation and how it’s making a difference in social work education.

    Professor Tedam teases exciting upcoming research outcomes, scheduled for release in 2026.



    Find Professor Tedam’s work available here:

    https://people.ucd.ie/prospera.tedam/publications


    • Do share your feedback at: adosylv@gmail.com
    • Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/groups/412169436067530
    • Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners!
    • Join us and remember—social workers matter!
    • Website: www.inclinetrainingconsultants.co


    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 11 mins
  • A Promise-Driven Leader Dr. Andrea J. Boudreaux MPH, FACHE
    Oct 15 2025

    In conversation with Dr Andrea J. Boudreaux, a seasoned physician with a wealth of experience, she shares her insights on the pressing challenges within the U.S. healthcare system. In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into themes like trust, resilience, and the urgent need for change.

    Dr Boudreaux doesn’t shy away from discussing the stark realities of a broken system that often fails marginalised communities. Yet, amidst the challenges, she remains hopeful, embodying the spirit of a promise-driven leader. Her candid reflections on both her professional journey and personal experiences reveal the complexities of healthcare and the radical transformations needed to make it equitable for all.

    Get ready to be inspired as we explore how to navigate despair with determination and the importance of never giving up on creating a better future for healthcare. Listen to discover how one leader’s vision can spark change in an entire system!



    • Do share your feedback at: adosylv@gmail.com
    • Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/groups/412169436067530
    • Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners!
    • Join us and remember—social workers matter!
    • Website: www.inclinetrainingconsultants.co


    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 27 mins
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