Int’l Social Work Conference to Be Held in Jamaica March 18

Hundreds of social work professionals, policymakers, academics and students from Jamaica and overseas are expected to participate in the second International Social Work Conference (ISWC), scheduled for Tuesday, March 18 at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon Kamina Johnson-Smith, is expected to give opening remarks.

It is organised by One Step Forward Consultancy (OSFC) Co-founder, Patricia McKenzie-Thomas, who told JIS News in an interview that the aim of the 2025 International Social Work conference is to elevate the profile of social work in Jamaica, while addressing the unique challenges faced by social workers and celebrating their contributions to communities, families and children.

Under the theme ‘Transformative Change for a Better Future in Social Work’, emphasis will be placed on fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the development of strategies to address critical psychosocial issues, with a particular focus on the importance of education, training, and safe practices in social work, Mrs. McKenzie-Thomas said.

“Our communities face complex and multifaceted challenges, and social workers are at the forefront working passionately to enhance the well-being of those they serve. This conference will recognise their achievements while raising awareness of the need for better support and resources,” she added.

Participants will have the opportunity to engage in interactive workshops led by notable figures in the field, such as Eva Forde, author of ‘How NOT to Practise Social Work’, and Celeste Hope Hutchinson, who specialises in trauma-informed care in social work practice.

Highlight of the conference will be the Keynote Address by the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., who will address issues surrounding the recruitment and retention of social workers in Jamaica.

Other notable speakers are Head of Community Health and Psychiatry in the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies (UWI), Professor Wendel Abel; Chief Technical Director, Crime Prevention Rehabilitation and Inspectorate Policy Division, Ministry of National Security, Shauna Trowers; and Lecturer in the Department of Sociology (Social Work Unit), University of Guyana, Debbie Hopkinson.

The day will culminate with a panel discussion, focusing on effective training, safe practices, and peer support networks.

Panellists include Lecturer at the UWI and Director of the Office of Social Entrepreneurship and Youth Crime (Ja), Dr. Kadamawe Knife; Director and Chief Executive Officer of Family Life Ministries (Ja), Dr. Barry Davidson; Social Worker, British Airways Diversity and Inclusion Advocate, Mentor and ‘Sista Chat’ Talk Show Founder and Host (UK), Roselyn Powell; Lead Consultant at Caribbean Youth Assets (Cayman Islands), Rev. Dr. Sylvia Wilks; and Social Work Practitioner and Practice Development Consultant, Patricia McKenzie-Thomas.

For registration and further information, persons can contact One Step Forward Consultancy at: onestepforwardconsultancy@gmail.com or osfintlsocialworkconference@gmail.com, or call 876-447-9817 or 876-250-1537.