A social worker is a professional who helps individuals, families, and communities. They advocate for social justice and support people in improving their quality of life through counselling, resource and systems navigation, and connection to community services. National Social Work Month, celebrated each March, honors the contributions of social workers, and raises awareness about the vital role they play promoting well-being and advocating for social change in society.
This month, Belong Ottawa is shining a spotlight on members of our team who are connected to the social work profession, sharing their reflections on their work, passion, and dedication to supporting others.
February 13th, 2025, was a momentous day for Panah. After a busy shift at Belong Ottawa in her role as a Social Support Worker, she returned home to an email that would change her future. With a mix of excitement and anticipation, she opened it to discover she had been accepted into the Master of Social Work (MSW) program commencing Fall of 2025 – an achievement that is no small feat, given there are thousands of applicants each term.
For many, a journey into social work begins long before the acceptance letter for school. Panah shares that lived experience contributed to her passion for the field. “I originally trained as a Food Scientist in Iran, where I published academic work. I was denied opportunities due to my identify as a trans woman. I fled to Turkey and lived as a refugee for seven years, working as a translator and outreach worker with LGBTQ+ people, sex workers, and individuals living with HIV.”
Panah arrived in Canada in 2022, soon joining Belong Ottawa as a Kitchen Assistant, a role that quickly evolved to Kitchen Coordinator. While she brought flavor and creativity to the organization’s food programs, it was her unwavering commitment to supporting others that shone. Panah wanted to support participants in a frontline capacity, so she became a Social Support Worker. Now, Panah leads her team as a Senior Social Support Worker, using her knowledge and experience to assist individuals facing homelessness, substance use, and mental health challenges.
For Panah, the most fulfilling aspect of her work is the deep, trusting relationships she builds with participants.
“The most rewarding part of my work is when someone feels truly seen and safe with me,” she shares. “I know what it feels like to be invisible, to be rejected, and to survive without support. When I can create even a small space of care, trust, or empowerment—especially for folks who have been marginalized—that is everything to me.” Her connection with social work, both through Belong Ottawa and her firsthand experiences, is strong and unwavering. “For me, social work is about listening deeply, advocating fiercely, and walking alongside people as they reclaim their stories and power.”
When asked about her core values in relation to her work and her studies, Panah was quick to respond; “My work is rooted in dignity, equity, and lived experience. I believe in the power of meeting people where they are—without judgment—and recognizing their inherent worth, regardless of their circumstances.”
As Panah continues to grow her skills and knowledge as a Senior Support Worker at Belong Ottawa, she eagerly anticipates her academic studies and the path ahead. “Pursuing my MSW is both personal and political,” she shares. “I want to continue growing my skills, deepen my understanding, and be able to make systemic change. My goal is to advocate not only for individuals but also for policies and structures that reflect equity and justice, especially for newcomers, LGBTQ+ folks, and people living in poverty.”
Panah’s journey continues as she prepares to expand her ability to drive change through academic studies. For now, her dedication to the community, exemplified by her work with Belong Ottawa, remains unwavering.