Child, Youth and Family Midlands hero Reynu Anand – The passion to make a difference

An interview with REYNU ANAND: Passionate youth justice social worker at Child, Youth and Family in Hamilton, and active member of the city’s migrant community.

Why did you become a social worker?

When I came here from India nine years ago I wanted a change from the world of science, and social work offered me the chance to work with people in a meaningful way. I knew on the second day of my social work placement that I’d made the right decision and have loved every minute of my job since that day almost four years ago

How do you connect with families?

I always try and relate to them at their level and strongly believe if you give respect, then you get it in return. Sometimes you have to talk the hard talk, and I can do that too, when needed. My mantra to not take people’s negative attitudes personally keeps me going back to people, and eventually I can develop a positive relationship with them.

Tell us about your involvement with the migrant community

I work with all migrants, but, because of my own background, more often with the Sikh and Punjabi communities. I support them around adapting to their new life, including dealing with social isolation, cultural and language issues, and when they are sick. For many years I’ve been connected with Hamilton’s ethnic women’s centre called SHAMA.

My greatest focus is on working in the area of domestic violence.

How much of an issue is domestic violence in migrant communities?

It’s the same deal as in any community; the same power and control issues, the same minimising, the same abuse – just in a different language. I work to help, support and educate mostly women, but I also work with men and the wider family to break down the stigma surrounding domestic violence. I encourage women to talk about these issues and challenge them. It’s not easy, but needs doing.

How do you have the energy to do all that?

I get a lot of personal energy from my spirituality, meditation and from walking. I’m also inspired by my workmates and how they make a difference with children, young people and families, so often going above and beyond. I started this job late in life and just feel I have so much to do in such a short time. Above all, I guess it’s the passion I have to make a difference, no matter how small that may be.