The Sierra Leone Association of Social Workers (SLASW) is pleased to announce its first-ever Annual General Meeting (AGM) and National Delegates Conference, scheduled for Saturday, 22nd November 2024, in Freetown. This landmark event signals an exciting new chapter for SLASW and provides a platform for social workers to reflect on progress, discuss critical issues, and shape the future of the profession in Sierra Leone.

The AGM will be preceded by a plenary session, where key stakeholders, partners, and members will gather to deliberate on the regulation of social work in Sierra Leone and the importance of using data to drive decisions in social work and social development. These discussions will serve as a foundation for the AGM, fostering collaboration and setting the stage for informed decision-making on the future trajectory of the profession.

At the AGM, several essential activities will be undertaken to ensure the effective governance and continued growth of SLASW. Members will revisit the outcomes of the National Social Work Conference held in March 2023, reviewing and approving the minutes from that historic gathering. Directors will present detailed reports, summarizing the Association’s activities and achievements over the past year, while also addressing key challenges that lie ahead.

An important focus of the AGM will be the consideration of resolutions proposed by members. These resolutions will provide an opportunity to address pressing issues, explore new initiatives, and make decisions that align with SLASW’s mission to advance social work in Sierra Leone. Additionally, members will appoint auditors to oversee the Association’s financial accountability for the year 2024.

A highlight of the day will be the election of Directors and other key officers who will lead SLASW into the future. These elections will be crucial for strengthening the governance of the Association and ensuring that it continues to operate effectively in achieving its objectives.

The AGM is expected to attract a diverse range of participants, including SLASW members who have completed their membership registration and fulfilled their 2024 subscription fees by the designated deadline. These members represent a cross-section of social workers, including practitioners, educators, students, and advocates from across Sierra Leone. Their active involvement will be critical for shaping the decisions made at this gathering.

The AGM also offers an opportunity to reflect on the Association’s progress over the past year. This includes the launch of the National Social Workers Census 2024, a groundbreaking initiative that has laid the foundation for better workforce planning and resource allocation. Members will discuss how the data collected through this census can be used to inform policies and support the growth of the profession.

Looking ahead, SLASW remains committed to promoting excellence in social work practice, advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations, and shaping policies that enhance social welfare. The AGM will serve as a stepping stone toward achieving these goals, bringing together members and stakeholders to collaborate on a shared vision for the future.

As the leading professional organization for social workers in Sierra Leone, SLASW is dedicated to advancing the field through professional development, advocacy, and strategic partnerships. The AGM represents a vital opportunity for the Association to continue building momentum, ensuring that the social work profession plays a transformative role in improving the lives of individuals and communities across the country.

Members and stakeholders are encouraged to stay updated on the AGM and other SLASW activities by visiting the Association’s website www.slasw-sl.org and following its social media platforms. Together, we can ensure that social work remains a force for positive change in Sierra Leone.