In pursuit of happiness

“This is not a job, it is a calling.”

Lillian Gajoo has been a social worker at SANCA for 10 years, working diligently to help others fight their inner demons and escape the dark clutches of substance abuse. While it is a job that does not often get recognition, she insists it has enriched her life.

Dedicated to her career, Mrs Gajoo first got involved in SANCA by serving on its committee.

“I worked on the committee on a voluntarily basis. Then one day, I went out with the then supervisor to a school and he asked me to talk to the pupils.”

Totally unprepared, Mrs Gajoo said she gave an educational talk, drawing from her previous involvement in Alanon, an organisation similar to SANCA.

“I must have been good, because I was then offered a job at SANCA. I had originally wanted to stay only three months but I started studying in 2005. In 2008 I qualified as a social worker, with a major in substance abuse.”

Her caring nature motivated her to pursue a career in social work.

“I have never abused any substances, but I love helping and encouraging people. They do not have to do it alone and I like to show people that there is help.”

Mrs Gajoo recalled she was almost unable to sleep during the first six months of her career.

“I just wanted to help resolve every case.”

Only later on she accepted she could not save the world.

Thoroughly enjoying her life as a social worker, Lillian said it was a career that she would definitely encourage others to pursue.

“But, you must have a passion for people and want to help them,” she concluded.