Kayla Koopman
Qualified Social Worker
Kraaifontein, Cape Town
Summary
Driven social worker with proven skills in case management and conflict resolution, honed at Joburg Child Welfare. Excelled in creating community programs and advocating for children's rights, showcasing adaptability and professional ethics. Expertise in child welfare and team collaboration, contributing to significant improvements in client well-being and legal advocacy.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Student Social Work Intern
Joburg Child Welfare
02.2024 - 11.2024
- Maintained client reports to track client progress, record interventions and provide relevant data for analysis.
- Consulted with other professionals to gain insight and advice and build strong network within organization.
- Mediated between family members to facilitate conflict resolution and build healthy family relationships.
- Devised and implemented community-based programs by using sports to address substance abuse and mental health while promoting awareness of HIV/AIDS, TB, and STIs.
- Responded to crises and emergency situations to provide immediate assistance to persons in need.
- Facilitated group therapy sessions, fostering supportive environments for open communication and personal growth.
- Conducted the legal obligations and procedures for reporting suspected cases of child abuse, neglect, and exploitation under the Children's Act.
- Developed skills in conducting initial assessments of reported cases to determine the immediate safety and well-being of the child, using the framework provided by the Act.
- Conducting investigations into allegations of child abuse and neglect, ensuring compliance with the Act's requirements for evidence gathering and interviewing children.
- Gained hands-on experience with investigations under Section 150, preparing reports and recommendations for the Children's Court regarding a child's care and protection.
- Supporting and monitoring foster parents, ensuring they provide a safe and nurturing environment for the children in their care, in accordance with the Act's provisions.
- Prepared clear, concise, and legally sound reports for the Children's Court, presenting evidence and recommendations regarding a child's care and protection.
- Attended Children's Court hearings, observing legal proceedings, and potentially providing testimony as a witness.
- Developed skills in advocating for children's rights and needs within the legal and social service systems, ensuring their voices are heard and their best interests are protected.
- Collaborated effectively with other professionals, such as lawyers, doctors, teachers, and police officers, to provide comprehensive services to children and families.
Social Work Student Intern
Lungelo’s Women Organization
02.2023 - 11.2024
- Enhanced client well-being by conducting comprehensive assessments and developing individualized care plans.
- Advocacy for women's rights and support initiatives that aim to address issues such as gender-based violence, discrimination, and inequality.
- Developed partnerships with local agencies to enhance service provision for clients in need.
- Coordinated outreach activities to increase awareness of available social work services within the community.
- Built rapport with diverse populations through active listening skills and cultural sensitivity.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to assess client needs and develop appropriate interventions.
Social Work Student Intern
Naturena Primary School
02.2022 - 11.2022
- Provided student support through individual and group counseling
- Engaged families to address student challenges
- Offered crisis intervention.
- Developed and conducts educational workshops for students, parents, and teachers
- Collaborated with educators to create supportive learning environments
- Connected students and families with external resources.
- Implemented the development of school-wide programs to enhance student well-being.
Education
Bachelor of Social Work - Social Work
University of Johannesburg
Johannesburg, South Africa 04.2001 -
Skills
Social services
Case management
Child welfare
Behavior modification
Team Collaboration Abilities
Conflict Resolution Skills
Skilled in English and Afrikaans Communication
In-Depth Knowledge of Children's Act
Code 8(B) Driver License
Adaptability and flexibility
Time management abilities
Substance abuse counseling
Professional ethics
Additional Information
References
Angeline Mnisi, Supervisor at SANCA Soweto and University of Johannesburg
Contact Detail: 063 271 5724 (angientsako@gmail.com)
Privileged Dube, Facilitator at University of Johannesburg.
Contact Detail: 079 212 4077 (privileged@uj.ac.za)
Nduduzo Langa, Social Work at Joburg Child Welfare.
Contact Detail: 084 866 0911 (langans1996@gmail.com)
Timeline
Student Social Work Intern
Joburg Child Welfare
02.2024 - 11.2024
Social Work Student Intern
Lungelo’s Women Organization
02.2023 - 11.2024
Social Work Student Intern
Naturena Primary School
02.2022 - 11.2022
Bachelor of Social Work - Social Work
University of Johannesburg
04.2001 -