Siphiwe Moyo

Siphiwe Moyo

Community Development Worker, Empower Local Development Company

BA in Community Development and Youth Work, Technological University of Dublin, Blanchardstown Campus

My first job after graduation is as Community Development worker at Empower Local Development Company I work with people seeking international protection living in direct provision, and refugees.

My role is focussed on empowering them through supporting access to a range of programmes and services from English language and employment supports, mental health support programmes, providing access to information about rights and entitlements, advocating on their behalf and tackling issues such as racism and discrimination.

My professional education informs my practice and ensures that it is centred on the values and principles of community work.  I use the knowledge and skills developed during my time in TU Dublin to support the communities we work with.  The opportunity I was given to analyse and reflect on my own biases, now supports me in my work with the diverse range of marginalised groups in the community.  My experience in TU Dublin has encouraged me to continue with my professional development and I am currently undertaking a Masters in Refugee Integration.

A professional Community Work Education gives you the opportunity to learn the knowledge and skills to support your community work practice. It provides you with the opportunity to explore your values and biases, to reflect on your practice and to plan and review your work effectively.   It really helps to prepare you to become a professional community work practitioner.