The Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) has committed to implementing the recommendations of the report, Reparations for Social Workers of African Descent, including strengthening Africentric social work education, advancing professional development on anti-Black racism, and recognizing excellence through awards and scholarships.
To fulfil these commitments, they have partnered with the National Africentric Social Work Circle (NASWC).
Honourable Senator Wanda Thomas Bernard Legacy in Africentric Social Work Award
This biennial award is named in honour of Senator Dr. Wanda Thomas Bernard, a tireless advocate and leader in originating Africentric Social Work in Canada. It will be presented during Black History Month every two years, beginning in February 2027.
- The nominee must be a current member in good standing of the National Africentric Social Work Circle or a CASW Partner Organization
- Must have not received the award previously.
- Nominees must consent to publication of their nomination.
- Nominees must be of African, Caribbean, or Black descent
Nominations are now open, and submissions must be received on or before December 1, 2026. Visit the CASW website to review the full criteria for this award and submit a nomination.
National Africentric Social Work Circle Student Leadership Scholarships
CASW and NASWC will coordinate on the selection of two annual $1000 scholarships to be presented each year during Black History Month, beginning in February 2027.
- Nominee must be attending or enrolled in an accredited School of Social Work program in Canada, completing a Bachelor or Master of Social Work
- Nominee must have demonstrated advocacy efforts such as student activism, community organizing, and informal mentorship that has contributed to improved outcomes for African, Caribbean, and Black populations in Canada.
Applications are now open, and submissions must be received on or before January 1, 2027. Visit the CASW website to review the full criteria for this award and submit an application.