Meet Humayra, Deputy Head, Case Management, at Pertapis Centre for Women & Girls (PCWG). She leads the Case Management Team and ensures that the residents at PCWG are provided with quality care services.
Q & A with Humayra
What is your role and how did you find your way to your current role at Pertapis?
I am currently the Deputy Head (Case Management) at Pertapis Centre for Women and Girls. My career in the social work industry began as a welfare officer at Pertapis Children’s home in 2016. Gradually, with more experience and trainings, I was tasked to lead the Case Management team in PCWG in 2018.
What made you want to pursue a career in social work?
I’ve always wanted a job that was meaningful and fulfilling. I feel very blessed to have been granted this opportunity to create small differences in the lives of these young women as they journey through their adversities and growth.
What does a typical day at PCWG look like for you?
It wouldn’t be a typical day at PCWG without a couple of squabbles, some tears and lots of laughter. There are times where I am breaking up arguments or handing a tissue or even just giving a pat to console these girls. There is never a dull moment in PCWG.
I work closely with the case management team, collaborating with partners in the field to ensure quality care services for our residents. Our goal is to develop self-reliant, empowered and resilient young women and to ensure they return to a safe and stable home environment. As such, we work in tandem to ensure that their physical, emotional, psychological needs are met. My work also entails processing difficult experiences with the youths and providing them with practical, stable and emotional support.
Is there anything about your role that you find challenging and how do you overcome these challenges?
A key part of my work involves building relationships with the girls. At times, making difficult decisions for the best interest of the child can be tough and emotional. Striking the balance between being their advocate and reinforcing structure as well as managing the myriad of emotions in ensuring the child’s welfare being the utmost priority is never easy. It continues to be a work in progress for me.