Week 12 reflect on how your praxis has enabled you to demonstrate the 10 SWRB Core Competencies and meet SWRB Fit and Proper Policy

My praxis is distinguished by my learning theories and evidence-based research over the past four years of my Bicultural Bachelor of Social Services degree. My praxis of networking within government organizations, Whanau, hapu and iwi, that my practice is a reflection of the organization's values and principles. My practice will show that I'm competent to work with Maori using tikanga values and beliefs, using te reo to reflect my understanding of the deeper level in which maori are connected to everything living and the commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi framework, mana atua, mana tangata & mana whenua.

I show respect by understanding tikanga Maori values & beliefs, by knowing and performing/offering, Greetings in te reo , karakia, waiata, Hui process, koha and upholding respect at all times for Whanau I work with and my work colleges (Te Whakakoha Ragatiratanga). I do this by meeting in place in which Whanau feel comfortable and safe, that whanau have the support people that they would like present, that they have control over the hui and the way they would like it to run, that they make decisions for their Whanau and what they want. That my practice is always tika & Pono, offering clear honest and direct information.

My competence to practice with other ethnic groups comes with being organized, reading file thoroughly, researching values and beliefs of the ethnic group if I'm unaware of what these are, ringing the family prior to build rapport and see if an interpreter would be needed and asking is there anything I need to know culturally to ensure not to offend, most families are very happy to state what they would like e.g., some cultures like you only to talk to the grandparents or directly to the person choose to speak or only to the husband, you may offend if you shake the husbands hand. Being culturally aware is important, so not to offend, it shows you care for their beliefs and values and show no judgement or prejudice. I embrace cultural and personal differences ensuring that the people I work with feel included through the Hui process, they feel free to ask questions and receive an honest response.

I advocate for change where needed and promote social and economic justice for all. My practice advocates for change to ensure resource access and opportunities are available to support Whanau, Hapu and Iwi needs. Human rights are for all people, and all people have the right to freedom of expression and have their opinions without judgement. Promotion of human rights and practice is to take action when I see discrimination in our communities, human right is in my daily life.

By connecting Whanau with community-based supports i.e., health services and employment can empower them to advocate for themselves, building independence and mana to ensure mauri ora (wellbeing). By connecting communities that may be disconnected can empower change and collaboration.

My ethical boundaries are practiced by respecting all people and their confidentiality (Not discussing their story in or out of work), I respect values, religious and cultural beliefs. I show patients and speak in a manner that is respectful without judgement not using slang or curse words.

As a social worker I am responsible for maintaining confidentiality and duty of care to the Whanau I support. My practice reflects strong morals, values, ethical principles and values such as honesty and trustworthiness. Nga Takepu applied principles guide my social work professionalism. Ahurutanga (safe space), Tino Rangatiratanga (absolute integrity), Mauri Ora (Pursuit of wellbeing), Te Whakakoha Rangatiratanga (appropriate respectfulness in relationships), Kaitiakitanga (Stewardship/Guardianship), Tau Kumekume (positive & negative tensions)

My fit and proper practice will be evaluated by the SWRB, any information that arises during my practice should be reported to SWRB e.g., a conviction or criminal charge that may come about during my registration, or a professional disciplinary proceeding against me.  The SWRB should be notified at the earliest convenience.