The Concept

(No, I don't mean in between bars as in drinking holes....) ;)

Hello! Or Hallo! as they say in Afrikaans.

On the journey throughout my Masters of Social Work program, there have been numerous times where I have been holding on for dear life to my bar-of-the-moment, swinging along, too afraid to let go. There have been other times where I could feel myself grab onto a new bar, when I released my grip of the present, because the next step, my growth was calling out to me.

This blog is about what happens in the middle, in between bars, where trnansition and change occurs. This is a rich and rewarding place to be, a place people often fear. My intention is to articulate that in this space "In Between Bars" I have learned to FLY. The inspiration for this metaphor comes from a wonderful book called Warriors of the Heart by Danaan Parry: http://www.amazon.com/dp/0965380823


In 5 sleeps I will be taking off for South Africa. I will spend about 3 months there, 12 weeks working for the Government in the Department of Social Development. Here is a synopisis of what I will be doing (as described for the Dr. Irma Parhad strudentship Programmes):


Brianna will travel to the South African capital Pretoria, located in the Gauteng Province to complete her advanced Masters’ of Social Work practicum.  She will be working within the South African National Department of Social Development (DSD), within the Chief Directorate of Children. The DSD recognizes that lifelong learning and professional development of social workers is important, and that social workers are key resources in addressing the needs and challenges of society. Specifically, her role will be undertaking research work in the area of child protection. A National Surveillance Study on child abuse, neglect and exploitation commenced in 2008 and is the umbrella study she will be contributing to. An immediate outcome of this particular study is to develop policies and strategies for child care protection, hence, her responsibilities will include will include participatory stakeholder liaison in provinces, research data management and analysis, report writing, amongst others.


I have completed my core course requirements as of April 15, 2010 so the practicum in South Africa is the final step in completing my Masters'. Not only does this trip signify an educational milestone, but it represents the manifestation of a dream I have had for many, many years. Ever since I returned from India (2001), I have stated quite blatantly that I wanted to go and work in Africa. I spent four years in Europe since then (2004-2008), still holding on tightly to this vision. Now, nine years later....I'M actually GOING!


This blog will likely be a mixture of reflection of my time in Africa in both a professional and personal capacity and I hope you do enjoy following along.

With a big smile and an open heart,
Brianna