This year, we celebrate World Social Work Day on 19 March. It's a day dedicated to honouring the remarkable contributions of social workers and social service professionals who tirelessly dedicate themselves to making a difference in the lives of others.

To commemorate this special day, we are proud to feature Shirleen Tay, one of our social workers here at Filos. With a heart brimming with compassion, Shirleen has been making a significant impact in the lives of those she serves.

Reflecting on her decision to pursue social work, Shirleen shares, "For me, it's about being there for those who are vulnerable, being their voice, and supporting clients through life’s challenges." She decided to become a social worker after witnessing the profound impact that social workers had on her family during their difficult times when she was younger.

While social work can come with its own set of challenges, Shirleen draws strength from prayer, faith in the resilience of the human spirit, and the unwavering support she receives from colleagues, families, and friends during tough times.

For Shirleen, the most rewarding aspect of her work is witnessing individuals grow and make progress. She expressed, "Whether it's helping clients gain stability, and confidence, or collaborating with partners to bring about positive change, every step forward is immensely fulfilling."

This year's World Social Work Day theme is 'Buen Vivir: Shared Future for Transformative Change.' In Shirleen's words, "Whether it's through advocacy, social justice, or empowering individuals, social work has the power to drive change and create a shared future where everyone strives."

As Helen Keller once said, "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." With individuals like Shirleen leading the way, we are reminded of the transformative power of social work in creating a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Happy World Social Work Day!