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# Operations Status Status Title Lastname Firstname eMail Institution Title of Presentatation Theme Selection Abstract SID
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Accepted Pending Review Dr. Ugiagbe Ijeoma ijeoma.ugiagbe@uniben.edu University of benin Correlates of Inclusiveness in Sustainable Environmental Development and Gender-balanced Policy Thrusts: A Study of Benin Metropolis, Nigeria THEME 3: Policy and Advocacy for Peace building, Environmental and Social Justice Correlates of Inclusiveness in Sustainable Environmental Development and Gender-balanced Policy Thrusts: A Study of Benin Metropolis, Nigeria

By
Ijeoma Ugiagbe, PhD
Department of Public Administration
Faculty of Social Sciences
University of Benin
Benin City
Edo State, Nigeria
Email: Ijeoma.ugiagbe@uniben.edu
Mobile: +2348075366999

ABSTRACT
Globally, the strive for sustainable development in all ramifications is on the front banner because it is sine qua non for the overall development and improvement of the lives of the people but the issue has both the exclusion of women from the scheme of things which perhaps explains the monumental loss and failures associated with sustainable development plans in developing nations. There is the need to ascertain the impact of the exclusion of women in the social, political, economic and other spheres of human endeavour. This paper argues that the non-inclusion of women (particularly the vulnerable market women) account partly for the failure of sustainable environmental and development programs in Nigeria. The contention of this paper is that the valuable potentials and commitments of the market and other vulnerable women will enhance Nigeria’s quest for sustainable environmental development. The content analysis methodology was adopted whereby existing data and publications on the phenomenon being discussed were extensively reviewed. The population of the study were women who have businesses in 8 major markets in Benin Metropolis and the systematic and cluster sampling method were utilized in administrating the questionnaire on the 450 research participants. The date were analyzed with SPSS and inferential statistics. The results of the analysis shows that the exclusions of women as active participants and the government dispositions of treating women as passive onlookers rather active members of development plans accounts for the failure of sustainable plans in Benin Metropolis and in Nigeria. The study proffers some feasible panacea for the way forward in attaining gender balance and inclusiveness in sustainable development in all ramifications including the policy and development implication of the study.

Keywords: Sustainable environmental development, Social exclusion, Market women,
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Accepted Pending Review Ms. Ntshaba Zwakele Zwakele.Ntshaba@kzndsd.gov.za Department of social development The impact of climate-related disasters on marginalized and vulnerable populations THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises ABSTRACT
The impact of climate-related disasters on marginalized and vulnerable populations
Background
Climate change has lately been one of the factors causing instability and negative effects on communities, mainly marginalised and vulnerable groups. UThukela District in the Alfred Duma local municipality is amongst areas that face an increase and frequency of natural disasters as a result of climate change. The aim of this research was to explore the effect of climate change and its impact on marginalised groups.
Methods
We used qualitative methods to explore this issue in depth, by interviewing 10 households that were affected by disasters in December 2023. Content analysis was used to analyse data from 10 families who were affected by interviewing household heads. We therefore used a grounded theory to explore the impact-related disasters on marginalized and vulnerable populations.
Findings
Communities are exposed to drastic weather changes experience long-lasting stress (emotional and mental), multiple losses such as death, income, shelter, health, instability, and loss of personal effect such as identity documents. The erosion of livelihoods asset such as (cattle and fertile soil) poses a threat to food security and source of income. Natural disasters further complicate the vulnerability of communities who are unable to absorb shocks, accumulate assets, or recover from climate impacts, especially in the absence of responsive and effective government interventions.

Conclusion
Climate-related disasters plunge vulnerable and marginalised groups into further social, economic and physical risk. The government and policy-makers need to strengthen disaster management systems to provide a holistic, systematic and relevant manner in collaboration with other stakeholders such as NPOs, businesses, faith groups and interest groups. This necessitate a dire need for the government to put innovative systems in place to address this intensifying issue which affects communities differently.

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Accepted Accepted Ms. Meth Raylene raylenemeth@gmail.com Department of social development The examination of the impact sharenting through social media has on the rights and protection of children THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Parents frequently post details about their children on social media. The risk here is that material shared on social media has the potential to spread quickly (intentionally or unintentionally) and occasionally end up in the hands of child predators who could use it to carry out some malign acts against the child. Little research has however been conducted to explore the extent to which sharenting can negatively impact the lives of children. The study thus explores the impact sharenting through social media has on the rights and protection of children in the digital era since South Africa's Constitution protects children's rights with the goal of guaranteeing all children various rights, including a right to privacy and a right of safety from danger. The study adopted the Desk Research method whereby qualitative data were collected using internet google search. The target materials were journal articles, legislation, cases, books, and gazette documents. Reviewing these materials found that parents seldom consider the best interests of the child or seek their consents when posting and sharing information about them on social media; and the law does not adequately protect children from sharenting especially in South Africa; whereby lessons needed to be learnt from certain legislations across the globe such as from the United States of America and European Union. The study is relevant to diverse stakeholders including policy makers, civil/social workers, parents, law courts/firms, the academia and those agencies or individuals that work directly or indirectly with the child or about child protection. However, the study had its limitations. It only used secondary data - information not collected from the target population such as the parents.
Key Concepts: Sharenting, Social Media, Right, Child Protection
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Accepted Accepted Ms. Danau Diana narcisa diana.danau@yahoo.com University of bucharest The phenomenon of domestic violence among women and the effects of the traumatic event THEME 3: Policy and Advocacy for Peace building, Environmental and Social Justice Trauma can be explained by experiencing more extraordinary life events when the usual mechanisms or strategies for coping with situations that put the individual at risk no longer work. When experiencing a traumatic situation or going through a traumatic event, the person tends to close down, and due to the lack of suitable mechanisms, not to accept the reality or the event that he went through (Ruppert, 2019). The trauma suffered as a result of the loss is a complex of factors that had influence in the individual's life, such as the time when the loss occurred, its consequences, the changes that occurred as a result of it, the existence or absence of formal/informal support (Ștefăroi, 2014).
Domestic violence is influenced by the emotional state of the individual and his family life. Here, due to the emotional charges that arise at the time of a conflict, the distinction between love and hate is no longer made. Domestic violence is known as a common phenomenon and because it is influenced by acts of tolerance or acceptance on the part of society. Often, violence in a couple's relationship is associated with a lack of education, insufficient or non-existent financial resources, excessive alcohol consumption, acts of jealousy, but also with the lack, in some underdeveloped countries, of an adequate legislative framework and social services designed to support victims of domestic violence, as well as the aggressor.
Violence is a constant in the daily life of contemporary man, often encountered on the street, behind the wheel through the use of offensive words or through obscene behavioral manifestations or even violent attacks (Căprioară, 2017).
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Accepted Accepted Ms. Mbola Roxanne roxannembola@icloud.com Ukzn howard Green Social Work: Building Climate Resilience in Vulnerable Townships in KZN THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises Green Social Work: Building Climate Resilience in Vulnerable Townships in KZN
Authors:
Roxanne Mbola, Student Social Worker UKZN roxannembola@icloud.com, +27 817469901/ + 27 672626375
Lwazi Mavuso, DAC-SWSDC Chairperson (2025-2027), Master Student UKZN mavusolwazi850@gmail.com , +26878506850/ +26879506850

Abstract
The world is facing escalating environmental crises caused by both natural processes and human activities, with climate change emerging as one of the most pressing global challenges. These crises disproportionately impact marginalized populations, intensifying existing social inequalities and exposing vulnerable groups to greater risks such as natural disasters, food insecurity, and health hazards. In response to these challenges, Green Social Work (GSW) has emerged as a vital framework that integrates environmental and social justice concerns into mainstream social work practice. This conceptual paper examines the principles of Green Social Work and its potential role in building climate resilience among marginalized communities.
Drawing on interdisciplinary literature, the paper argues that GSW provides a holistic, justice-oriented approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of humans, animals, plants, and the natural environment. It highlights how social work, traditionally rooted in human well-being, can expand its focus to include environmental sustainability, thus reinforcing its commitment to justice in all forms. Strategies such as community engagement, equitable access to resources, and targeted disaster preparedness programs are discussed as essential interventions that align with GSW principles. The paper concludes that adopting Green Social Work is not only timely but necessary in ensuring that vulnerable populations are supported in adapting to climate change, and that social workers play a meaningful role in shaping sustainable futures.

Keywords: Green Social Work, Climate Change, Environmental Justice, Marginalized Communities, Social Work Practice, Climate Resilience, Sustainable Development

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Accepted Accepted Ms. Bujor Elena mihaela mihaela87bujor@gmail.com University of bucharest Young, Invisible, and Overlooked: Early Motherhood as a Hidden Form of Gendered Social Injustice THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Early motherhood remains a pressing social justice issue, particularly in socioeconomically marginalized regions. In Romania, adolescent girls from vulnerable communities face a disproportionate risk of early pregnancy due to systemic poverty, lack of comprehensive sex education, and limited access to reproductive health services. This research explores early motherhood as both a cause and a consequence of structural injustice, perpetuating intergenerational cycles of exclusion, gender inequality, and poverty.

Using a qualitative approach, this ongoing research draws on 42 semi-structured interviews with adolescent mothers and adult women who gave birth before the age of 18 in Romania. Additionally, 47 requests for institutional data were submitted to the General Directorates of Social Assistance and Child Protection (DGASPC), covering all counties, to examine existing responses and support services. Findings highlight that early motherhood limits educational attainment, exposes girls to psychological and social vulnerabilities, and reinforces gendered expectations about caregiving. In many cases, these pregnancies result from imbalanced power relations, often involving older male partners.

The role of social workers is central in mitigating the impact of early motherhood by facilitating access to healthcare, education, and emotional support. However, institutional fragmentation, underfunding, and cultural stigmatization often hinder effective intervention. This paper argues that early motherhood must be reframed as a violation of gender and social justice and calls for integrated, community-based strategies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 3 (health), SDG 4 (education), SDG 5 (gender equality), and SDG 10 (reduced inequalities).

The study advocates for feminist-informed, interdisciplinary social work practices that address root causes while empowering young mothers to reclaim agency and dignity. This research contributes to international debates on gender justice, youth rights, and inclusive development through the lens of social work practice in Eastern Europe.		 1361
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Accepted Pending Review Ms. Siaga Livhuwani livhuwani.siaga@nwu.ac.za North west university Unresolved Trauma fueling Parental Alienation: A Social-Work Lens on Mental-Health, Equity and SDG Progress in South Africa THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Authors: Livhuwani Siaga*
Institution: North-West University
Contact details: 0768655844
Email: livhuwani.siaga@nwu.ac.za
Unresolved Trauma fueling Parental Alienation: A Social-Work Lens on Mental-Health, Equity and SDG Progress in South Africa
Parental alienation, where a child rejects one parent due to the other parent’s influence, is seen as emotional abuse in South Africa. Its roots in unresolved trauma remain overlooked, harming children's health (SDG 3), reinforcing gender biases in custody (SDG 5), and blocking peaceful family systems (SDG 16). The proposed presentation will highlight social work as a solution. Using trauma-informed theory, it explores estranged families in Gauteng. Interviews with accused parents reveal how childhood abuse, violence, and socio-historical stressors cause mechanisms like hyper-vigilance, projection, and parentification, leading children to choose sides. Analysis shows courts often unintentionally reinforce alienation by using adversarial procedures that punish or hinder healing rather than promoting it.
In my proposed presentation will summarize these three practical strategies: (1) a rapid trauma-screening protocol for social workers at the first sign of high-conflict separation; (2) guidelines for incorporating trauma histories into custody evaluations without pathologizing either parent; and (3) a collaborative, gender-sensitive intervention model combining mental health treatment with restorative family mediation. By translating lived experiences into actionable strategies, this will advance social work’s role in protecting children, restoring parental capacities, and accelerating South Africa’s progress toward SDGs 3, 5, and 16. Ultimately, it encourages delegates to view parental alienation not merely as malevolence but as a solvable public health challenge, one that can be addressed through empathetic, evidence-based, and culturally sensitive social work practices.
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Accepted Accepted Ms. Legegeru Kelopile suzan kelopilesue@gmail.com Fs department of social development Exploring how Social Workers integrate environmental justice,sustainability and ecological perspective into practice. THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises EXPLORING HOW SOCIAL WORKERS INTEGRATE ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE, SUSTAINABILITY AND ECOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES INTO PRACTICE.

In the wake of environmental crises in South Africa, a need to integrate environmental justice, sustainability and ecological perspectives into practice has never been more urgent. While environmental crises impacts us all, vulnerable and marginalized populations are impacted more adversely; threatening livelihoods and deepening existing inequalities.

As a profession with a long-standing declared focus on person-in-environment, Social Work may be key in accelerating interdisciplinary efforts to tackle environmental threats to human wellbeing and continued existence. Yet, the profession has evidently been silent or less involved.

This qualitative study used a descriptive design to explore how Social Workers integrate environmental justice, sustainability and ecological perspectives into practice. Utilizing the instrumental case study, the researcher purposively sampled ten Social Workers employed by the Free State Department of Social Development in Phuthaditjhaba. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken to obtain the data which was thematically analysed.

The findings of the study shows that although Social Workers are aware about the inter-relatedness between ecological issues and social problems ( including poverty, inequality and social exclusion) in light of rapidly mounting environmental crises; lack of capacity building in the area limits their capacity to integrate green social work( environmental justice, sustainability and climate resilience) into their daily practice.

The findings also suggests that Social Workers are playing a limited role in environmental justice and sustainability. It further shows that the focus has largely been on mitigating the impacts in the aftermaths of environmental crises. Thus, their interventions are more reactive than proactive.

The study findings are envisioned to develop an understanding on how Social Workers can utilize their expertise to enhance the prevention of environmental crises, accelerate the mitigation of subsequent impact, while protecting vulnerable populations and promoting environmental justice and sustainability.



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Accepted Accepted Mr. Silaigwana Silas ssilaigwana@lsu.ac.zw Lupane state university Rethinking Housing in Zimbabwe and South Africa in the Face of Environmental Crises: Strategies for Climate Resilience THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises Housing is a fundamental human right, yet climate change exacerbates housing insecurity, particularly in vulnerable communities. Green social work is gaining momentum primarily because its value bears huge dividends on housing-related domains, inter alia housing tenure, housing stability and security, homemaking, food security and neighbourhoods relations. Therefore, this qualitative study explores the intersection of housing, climate change, and green social work focusing on Zimbabwe and South Africa. Informed by the social vulnerability theory, the authors interrogate contemporary housing, housing vulnerability and opportunities for green social work pertaining in these two southern African neighbouring countries. The authors employed the scoping literature review methodology to analyse 1) climate, climate justice and housing policy particularly for poor communities 2) opportunities for green social work in advancing housing and concomitant rights. Consonant with the scoping literature methodology, the study organised, screened and synthesised housing and related policies, media and print articles including academic literature associated with green social work to identify critical housing and climate change events, gaps and opportunities. Findings reveal that climate-induced disasters, inadequate infrastructure, and socio-economic disparities contribute to perpetuating housing insecurity. Sadly, there is currently a very minimal social work envisaged to mitigate housing insecurity and boost climate resilience. The study recommends policy advocacy that would agitate for climate-smart housing policies, climate change education, early warning partnerships and developmental governance. This research contributes to the discourse on housing justice and climate adaptation, emphasizing the urgency of policy reforms that align with sustainable development goals. 1365
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Accepted Accepted Mr. Fourie Johan johanfourie53@gmail.com Valkenberg hospital, western cape government: department of health & wellness SOCIAL WORKERS’ PRACTICES WITH LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER CLIENTS IN THE CAPE METROPOLE: GAPS AND CHALLENGES IN ADVANCING THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Social workers are uniquely positioned to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities and Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. Within the context of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals, these goals underscore the critical need for inclusive, affirming, and rights-based social work practices that ensure equitable access to services and uphold the dignity of all clients. In South Africa, however, limited empirical research exists on social workers’ preparedness, practice approaches, and knowledge related to LGBT clients.
The paper will report on a Masters project which primarily focused on social workers’ practices and knowledge in dealing with LGBT clients in the Cape Metropole. Tronto’s (2013) political ethics of care was used as the theoretical framework for the study. In a qualitative study, convenience and snowball sampling was utilized to recruit a gender diverse participant pool, which comprised of 6 male and 14 female social work practitioners. The researcher conducted semi-structured interviews using the LGBT Competency Assessment Tool (LGBT-CAT) and all COVID-19 safety protocols for face-to-face contact during the COVID-19 pandemic were upheld. A thematic analysis was applied to interpret the findings.
Findings reveal that social workers often practice from cis-heteronormative presumptions and demonstrate limited understanding of LGBT identity development and affirming referral resources. While a few participants were aware of and engaged with LGBT-affirming services in the Cape Metropole, most expressed a lack of training and confidence in providing effective services to LGBT clients.
The study recommends strategies for enhanced training and education, ongoing professional development, and inter-organizational collaboration between mainstream social service agencies and LGBT-focused organizations. These strategies are essential to equip social workers with the knowledge and competencies necessary to uphold inclusive practice and contribute meaningfully to the realization of the SDGs 10 and 16 within diverse communities.		 1366
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Accepted Accepted Mr. Fourie Johan johanfourie53@gmail.com Valkenberg hospital, western cape government: department of health & wellness Narratives from Staff at an LGBTQIA+ Shelter: Applying Ecological Systems Theory to a Homelessness Intervention in Cape Town, South Africa THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Johan Fourie1 , Maurice Gattis2 , Neil Henderson3 , Aaron Kemmerer4 , and Jason Schaub5 .
1Valkenberg Hospital, Western Cape Government: Department of Health and Wellness.
2Virginia Commonwealth University.
3Department of Social Work, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
4University of North Carolina at Pembroke
Corresponding Author: Johan Fourie* (johanfourie53@gmail.com)
5University of Bristol
Internationally, LGBTQIA+ people are at increased risk of homelessness and housing instability. Literature on this topic emerging from the Global South has been less prominent. This paper explores the narratives from staff at an LGBTQIA+ homelessness centre in Cape Town, South Africa. Cape Town is a unique local context, given the post-apartheid political landscape and prevalent negative attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ people in South Africa.
This study sought to document and analyse the psychosocial experiences of LGBTQIA+ youth (aged 18 to 34) and staff in Cape Town, South Africa. Through a mixed methods approach. researchers examined semi-structured interviews and survey data from 12 residents and 5 staff at an emergency shelter service organisation for LGBTQIA+ individuals experiencing homelessness in Cape Town. The ecological systems theory was the theoretical framework employed for the study. For the purposes of this presentation, the qualitative findings of the staff will be highlighted. Interview data were analysed using narrative analysis strategies. Ethics considerations were paramount when dealing with staff.
The results from the staff show that the shelter seeks to provide a safe and structured environment for LGBTQIA+ people who may have experienced family rejection, educational or economic challenges and mental health concerns. Within the conference sub-theme of policy and advocacy for social justice, the researchers recommend that there be a shift in focus to advocating for macro socio-economic factors to be taken into consideration when considering LGBTQIA+ homelessness. These factors include addressing the limited availability of jobs and shelter space for a discriminated people. They highlight the need for more robust social work training for staff of shelters who serve this vulnerable and resilient population. 		1367
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Accepted Pending Review Mr. Ntloko Nkqubela aphiwe jackson aphiwe.ntloko@nwu.ac.za North-west university Developing school social work curriculum for South Africa’s relevance: An Afrocentric perspective THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development Considering South Africa's political climate, structural inequalities, racism, and school violence, developing a school social work curriculum requires addressing African context-specific challenges. With South Africa poised to establish school social work as a specialisation, a master's curriculum must reflect the diverse and complex environment faced by learners and educators.

Schools face complex contextual realities and challenges that must be acknowledged and understood. Additionally, schools are reflections of their communities, and it is crucial to recognise that there is a symbiotic relationship between the community and the school. The relationship between schools and their communities is critical, as changes in one part can affect the entire system. This is especially important in marginalised communities such as South Africa where access to social services is lacking, posing risks to both the community and learners. Therefore, it is essential to build a critical relationship based on the interdependence of parts within a system.

Any curriculum that ignores intergenerational trauma and trauma-informed social work interventions is removed from the reality that we face daily as South Africans. Making a case for school social work in South Africa necessitates the use of anti-oppressive and intersectionality theories to comprehend complexities of the school environment and provide effective, and relatable interventions, with decoloniality as a guiding principle. Intersectionality acknowledges that learners and educators are not homogeneous and that their experiences are influenced by numerous aspects of identity, including race, gender, sexuality, class, and ability.
This conceptual paper adds that we cannot establish a foundation of school social work using the tools employed by the colonisers. Overall, a decolonial and Afrocentric approach to school social work curriculum development in South Africa is critical for building a profession that is responsive to the needs of learners and educators and challenges the legacies of colonialism and oppression in our society.
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Accepted Accepted Ms. Seodi Palesa Palesa.Seodi2@gauteng.gov.za Gauteng department of health Promoting Resilience and Recovery Through Men’s Health: A Theoretical and Practice-Based Innovation from the Gauteng Department of Health THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises This abstract presents a theoretical exploration and practice-based innovation through the Gauteng Department of Health’s Men’s Health Programme, a community-level response supporting men’s health, recovery, and resilience. The programme addresses the long-standing lack of psychosocial and emotional support for men in public health and social workspaces, which has contributed to poor health-seeking behaviour, emotional suppression, substance abuse, suicide, violence, and financial distress. Using a district-based implementation model, the programme engages men through peer education, support group sessions, mental health campaigns, fitness activities, and health education. It encourages men to improve their well-being, reflect on their roles, and rebuild relationships , with women, their children, and especially the boy child. Rooted in feminist and social justice perspectives, the programme challenges harmful gender norms while promoting healing and adaptation in communities facing poverty and trauma. Results include increased health participation, reduced stigma, and stronger community partnerships. While not a formal research study, this work offers both theoretical insights and practical lessons for social workers advancing inclusive, gender-responsive, and community-led approaches in affected communities. 1375
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Accepted Accepted Ms. Danau Diana narcisa diana.danau@yahoo.com University of bucharest Long-Term Effects of Childhood Abandonment Trauma: Mental Health, Resilience, and Social Work Implications for Achieving the SDGs THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Childhood abandonment is a deeply traumatic experience with profound implications for emotional, psychological, and social development. This study investigates the long-term effects of abandonment trauma on individuals who spent part of their childhood in institutional care in Romania. Through a mixed-methods approach involving semi-structured interviews and psychometric assessments of attachment styles and trauma types, the research aims to explore the complex relationship between early relational trauma and adult wellbeing.
Preliminary findings indicate that individuals who experienced abandonment often develop insecure attachment styles, suffer from persistent anxiety, depressive symptoms, low self-worth, and face difficulties in establishing trust-based interpersonal relationships. These outcomes are strongly connected to the emotional deprivation encountered in early life, especially within institutional settings where continuity of care and emotional safety were often lacking. Many participants also reported struggles with substance use, impulsive behaviors, and emotional detachment, symptoms commonly associated with unresolved childhood trauma.
However, the study also highlights the presence of resilience in some individuals, revealing the protective role of positive relationships later in life, access to therapeutic interventions, and personal coping strategies. This resilience can serve as a foundation for targeted social work practices and support systems that promote healing and social reintegration.
By emphasizing the psychological consequences of early trauma and the need for trauma-informed, gender-sensitive interventions, this research supports Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 5 (Gender Equality). It calls for improved mental health services, inclusive education, and better support for vulnerable youth transitioning out of care. The study underlines the role of social work in bridging gaps in wellbeing and equity, and advocates for policy reforms that ensure lasting protection, empowerment, and dignity for those affected by childhood abandonment.
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Accepted Pending Review Ms. Ferent Florentina ferent.florentina@gmail.com University of bucharest, doctoral school of sociology, social work field The Cornerstone of Care: Why Supervision is Critical in Supporting Social Workers and People Experiencing Rough Sleeping THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Title: The Cornerstone of Care: Why Supervision is Critical in Supporting Social Workers and People Experiencing Rough Sleeping
Abstract
This research addresses the systemic failure of social services to effectively engage individuals experiencing long-term rough sleeping. It builds upon findings from a one-year observational study in Bucharest, which documented a population marked by severe mental and physical deterioration and highlighted that interactions with social services are "minimal and unproductive," leading to widespread client distrust.
This paper argues that this service delivery breakdown is intrinsically linked to a critical, yet often overlooked, factor: the inadequate professional and personal support for frontline social workers. By synthesizing the study's empirical observations with established literature on professional burnout and secondary trauma, this analysis demonstrates how the immense emotional and psychological burden of this work directly impairs a worker’s ability to build rapport and trust. Without proper support systems, social workers are highly susceptible to burnout and feelings of helplessness, which translates directly into the ineffective client engagement observed.
Therefore, this paper concludes that robust clinical supervision is not an administrative luxury but a core component of any effective response to homelessness. Effective supervision provides a vital reflective space for workers to process trauma, develop strategies for engaging resistant clients, and navigate systemic barriers without becoming demoralized. To build the coordinated and more humane approach that is urgently needed, we must first invest in the resilience, skills, and well-being of the professionals tasked with its delivery. This foundational support is the essential first step toward meaningful and sustainable change.
Key words: Social Work Supervision, Homelessness / Rough Sleeping, Professional Burnout, Secondary Trauma, Client Engagement, Workforce Resilience / Support
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Accepted Accepted Dr. Bredell Sandra sandrabredell@gmail.com Hugenote kollege An optimistic psychological viewpoint on resilience in the face of disasters. THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises An optimistic psychological viewpoint on resilience in the face of disasters.

A positive psychological view on disasters emphasizes resilience as a vital factor that helps individuals cope with extreme conditions. Resilience is a dynamic process that enables people to regain normal functioning within their communities. It highlights behavioural flexibility and the ability to adapt to both external and internal challenges. The complex nature of resilience involves psychological resources, social support, and coping strategies, especially as risks from climate change and global warming increase, resulting in floods, cyclones, droughts, and extreme weather events. There is a crucial need for communities to build their resilience in disaster risk reduction and management for the vulnerable population. By studying resilience theories, including Seligman’s 3 P's model—personalization, pervasiveness, and permanence— the connection between resilience and positive psychology is highlighted. This is important as it integrates both individual and community resilience into disaster preparedness and response planning. A scoping review is a qualitative method which will be employed to explore relevant articles that address the research question: how can resilience and positive psychology transform the way African communities respond to natural and hybrid disasters? It aims to provide a deeper exploration of the positive psychology principles to reduce the impact of disasters, promoting positive adaptation of the affected populations and an overall enhancement of the health and mental wellbeing of both the individuals and the broader community.
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Accepted Accepted Ms. Pitso Tshwarelo pitsotshwareli@gmail.com Social development L Social Work's Contribution to Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Title:Social Work's Contribution to Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Author:Tshwarelo Amelia Pitso, Department of Social Development
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) require a multifaceted approach to achieve social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Social work plays a crucial role in addressing poverty, inequality, and social injustice, making it essential for achieving the SDGs. This paper examines social work's pivotal role in achieving the SDGs, focusing on poverty reduction, health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, and climate action.
Through a review of empirical research and conceptual frameworks, we explore how social work practices like community engagement, advocacy, and capacity building contribute to SDG attainment. Our analysis highlights the importance of integrating social work principles and practices into sustainable development initiatives, promoting human rights, social justice, and environmental stewardship.
The findings suggest that social work can accelerate progress toward the SDGs, fostering a more equitable and sustainable world. By leveraging social work's strengths in community engagement, advocacy, and empowerment, we can build more resilient and sustainable communities. Social work is essential for achieving the SDGs, and its principles and practices should be integrated into sustainable development initiatives.
This paper concludes that social work's unique perspective and expertise are critical in promoting a more equitable and sustainable world. By recognizing social work's contribution to the SDGs, we can harness its potential to drive meaningful change and achieve the 2030 Agenda.		 1385
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Accepted Pending Review Mr. Titorencu Adrian cristian titorencuadriancristian@yahoo.ro University of bucharest, doctoral school of social work faculty of psychology, behavioral sciences and law, andrei șaguna university, constanța Social Geo-Design: How much do we innovate in social work? The Traveling Center for the Recovery of Children with Disabilities – Case Study THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development Social work has diversified in an interdisciplinary manner and has transformed from a mere alley to a highway with lanes full of ideas. So we ask: How much do we need to innovate in social work to meet the biggest challenges and improve the quality of life for individuals?
The Danube Delta is a natural reserve in Romania that presents geographical particularities regarding its inhabitants. Children with disabilities are not only born in the city, but also in hard-to-reach areas such as the Delta, which has the Danube as its network of streets and thousands of other canals. A NGO analyzed this situation of the marginalized population and proposed the creation of an Itinerant Center for the Rehabilitation of Children with Disabilities, which is a floating pontoon transformed into a social service. This can be the birth of Social Geo-Design.
It aims to provide assessment and information activities, habilitation/rehabilitation, play therapy, psychological counseling, socialization activities, development of independent living skills.
The social services offered are provided free of charge to children with disabilities from Tulcea County, especially from the Danube Delta, that are in risk of family separation, as well as to their parents or legal representatives, aiming to involve them in the recovery process and ensure progress through continued therapy.
The Geo-Social model involves interventions to reduce the risks caused by the environment on the local population, but more than that, Social Geo-Design involves emphasizing the social component, namely the person and the social problems they have, such as a disability, living in a geographical area with a particular peculiarity. Social Geo-Design balances the design of a social service, such as the creation of a mobile floating day care center for children with disabilities living in the Danube Delta.

Keyword: social work, innovative design, social geo-design, evidence-based practice
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Accepted Accepted Dr. Jongman Kgomotso jongmank@ub.ac.bw University of botswana Empowering Botswana's Youth: The Role of Social Work in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Botswana is often celebrated as a success story in Africa due to its substantial economic growth and efforts to combat poverty, unemployment, and inequality. However, despite these governmental initiatives, the situation for ordinary citizens remains challenging, with youth unemployment rates reaching nearly 40% (UNDP, 2025). In the pursuit of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), youth empowerment emerges as a crucial element, particularly in the context of Botswana. This paper examines the significant impact that social work has in furthering youth development, thereby advancing these global objectives. Social workers in Botswana are strategically positioned to tackle the socio-economic issues affecting the youth, such as unemployment, limited access to education, and health concerns. Through the deployment of community-based strategies and interventions, social workers can enhance inclusivity, equity, and resilience among young people.

This paper conducts a thorough analysis of current programs and policies, showcasing successful social work initiatives that have bolstered youth empowerment in Botswana. The discussion covers areas like access to quality education, youth entrepreneurship, and mental health support to demonstrate how these targeted social work interventions align with specific SDGs, notably Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3).
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Accepted Accepted Dr. Mpofu Sheron sheron.maqembe.mpofu@gmail.com University of pretoria Challenges and opportunities for the integration of second-generation Zimbabweans in South Africa: Implications for anti-oppressive social work THEME 3: Policy and Advocacy for Peace building, Environmental and Social Justice South Africa is one of the countries that receive migrants in the world. The country is home
to a diverse population of migrants, primarily from the African continent. Zimbabwean
second-generation migrants form part of the population of migrants being assimilated,
integrated and acculturated into South Africa. The question of assimilating, integrating and
acculturating second-generation migrants into receiving countries in terms of social,
economic, legal and political dimensions is essentially a matter of social justice. Therefore, it
is important for social work. This paper explores the challenges and opportunities
encountered by Zimbabwean second-generation migrants along social, economic, legal
dimensions and political dimensions of their lives as they integrate into South Africa.
Furthermore, it seeks to understand what these experiences mean for anti-oppressive social
work. The paper is based on a study that has a similar title. An anti-oppressive social work
theory, drawing from the concepts of coloniality, misframing and oppression, was used to
gain an understanding of the experiences of second-generation migrants. A qualitative
interpretive research methodology was utilised to conduct the study, with case study;
purposive, snowball and convenience sampling; semi-structured individual interviews and
thematic content analysis used. 16 second-generation migrants ranging from the ages of 14 to
21 and 10 key informants from the fields of social work, education and law were interviewed.
Johannesburg and Pretoria were the study locations.		 1389
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