The role of social worker at Ngāti Awa Social and Health Services

The intention of this practicum report is to provide a further understanding of the social worker’s role at Ngāti Awa Social and Health Services in Whakatāne, New Zealand. Ngāti Awa Social and Health Services provided me with a unique learning opportunity to explore the importance of a Māori framework within their programs on a rotational basis such as: Iwi Social Services, Rangiatea (i.e. Teen Parent Unit), and Te Waipuna Ariki o Matangireia ECE (i.e. Early Child Education). This report will provide an emphasis and understanding of the importance of incorporating Māori culture, and teachings within their agency framework at Ngāti Awa Social and Health Services. This practicum was a unique venture to be included as part of the Cross-Cultural Indigenous Knowledge Exchange (CCIKE) program. The practicum was only possible with multiple organizations coming together to consult, collaborate, and communicate. The following organizations were involved: University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), UNBC First Nations Department, Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi, UNBC Master of Social Work program, and Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarship. This practicum opportunity represented the first collaboration with the Master of Social Work program and the Māori organizations. This experience allowed me to set specific learning goals in the following areas: professional practice, education development, cultural competency, cross-cultural experience, the ability to challenge oneself (i.e. out of my own comfort zone), and be an active participant in cultural events. This report will include a detailed description of the agency, theoretical frameworks/model, observations, research, critical reflection, hands-on experience, and an understanding of how Māori integrated programming improves health outcomes for Māori Whānau.