In a world filled with social challenges, we need individuals who are committed to making a difference in the lives of people within their communities more than ever before, and that’s where social workers come in.

David Adoke, is our Project Manager in Tororo District. Tororo is one of districts where we are currently working with the Government to transform from dependence on orphanages to family based care.

We had a chat with David about why he loves being a social worker and how he is championing alternative care.

Why did you choose to be a social worker?

I chose to be a social worker because I get a great sense of satisfaction and fulfilment when I am able to help a person in a vulnerable place. I believe that people don’t live in isolation, society influences us a lot. I also believe every person has the right to be treated fairly and be given equal opportunities to thrive.

How long have you been a social worker?

I have been a social worker for 12 years. My biggest motivation has been bringing about positive social change in Tororo district, and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

What inspires you to get up every day and do what you do?

I am inspired to help individuals and communities enhance and develop their skills, so they are able to use available resources to solve their own challenges. It gives me joy to see families and children live a productive life in their own communities.

What has been your proudest moment as a social worker?

One of my proudest moments as a social worker was reuniting a family with their child who had been in an orphanage for 5 years.

We placed newspaper and radio announcements to trace for the child’s relatives and the family got in touch with us. Although it was heartbreaking because they did not know that their child was in an orphanage, the story had a happy ending because the child was reunited with their family and is now growing up surrounded by people who love them.

There were no children that entered into an orphanage in Tororo district last year, what does this mean to you, and to the community?

I am very happy and pleased that no child entered into the care of an orphanage and very humbled to be part of this piece of history and model of care that is being set up in Tororo.

It is a huge milestone for the district and our work in ensuring that children continue to grow up in families and not orphanages.