A passion for children
Resources aren’t always freely available to do what needs to be done, but that does not stand in the way of this dynamic woman
Sanet van Moerkeren started working as a social worker at the Springs and KwaThema Child Welfare in January 1991.
She took over as chief social worker in 1997 and her title was later changed to programme manager.
Sanet was born and raised in Heidelberg and studied at the old Hugenote College in Wellington.
“I always wanted to work with people,” she says.
When she was in Standard 10 (Grade 12) she applied for a police bursary to see if she would be able to study through them.
But four years later Volkskas granted her a loan, the church granted a bursary, and within a week she was on a train on her way to Wellington.
Sanet’s passion has always been children and by just helping and making a difference in just one child’s life, makes a huge difference in her life.
A social worker’s task is not always easy and taking children away from their parents can be extremely difficult, but to Sanet each case she handles is in the child’s best interest.
“The Lord has a purpose and plan in terms of social workers, even if everything looks dark out there, His purpose is still there,” she says.
In her spare time, she likes going to the movies or to relax in front of the TV, watching a TV series with her family.
She is a Lion supporter and if the opportunity arises the family go to Ellis Park Stadium to watch a game.
In her line of work, the purpose is to do everything in her power to help the children in need.
Resources aren’t always freely available to do what needs to be done, but that does not stand in the way of this dynamic woman.
When times are tough, she has a friend, Barbara Bouwer, also a social worker, to go to for moral support.
“She is definitely my role model. I respect her and value her opinions and friendship.”
To make a difference, and to see a smile on child’s face, makes her job worthwhile and that Sanet values the most.
