“My social work experience has brought less discrimination and more love and acceptance in the lives of mothers and children.”
Supporting disabled children and their carers – who often face horrific abuse and discrimination – has always been a vital part of Action Through Enterprise’s work. And when Helen Gala joined the SNAP disability team two years ago, she took it to a whole new level. . .
With a decade of experience as a qualified social worker and a passion for advocacy, Helen’s arrival was a real sign of ambition for the project. “My main aim was to make SNAP members feel accepted in society without a single discrimination. When they have problems, they come to us and we counsel them and help them. We, the social workers, are the voices for the people.”
It was this passion that drew Helen to social work in the first place. “What really motivated me was I wanted to be speaking for people, especially for children and women.”
After completing her studies, she worked for the Probation Unit and the National Youth Authority before joining Action Through Enterprise in 2022. Her focus is on advocating for and encouraging the carers, whilst SNAP colleagues Esther Beka and Ernestina Gan work hands-on with the children.
“Suddenly, through monthly SNAP meetings across six hubs, I became a motivational speaker, inspiring parents to have patience, though not easy, as well as a great comedian, making parents laugh even in the midst of their problems. It’s my favourite part of the job.”
Helen has lead sessions on acceptance, personal hygiene, how to end discrimination, how to avoid discrimination and how to find peace. Watching her progress has been SNAP Advisor, Dee Anderson:
“Helen has gained the trust and respect of the SNAP families and her understanding of their lives has enabled her to facilitate some extremely interesting monthly meetings in which they willingly participate. She uses her own social work background and invites other health professionals to further educate the parents and local residents on the importance of accepting and understanding the challenges faced by disabled children . Her initiative has really expanded the team’s work.”
Despite her own minor disability – caused by a knee injury which requires physio and hospital visits – Helen denies she a ‘role model’. But she is proof of what can be achieved with determination and the right attitude – it’s one reason why she pushes so hard to get disabled children into mainstream schooling.
“It’s like the parents think that because of their conditions, they don’t deserve something that is good. But with ATE, every year they are getting new uniforms, everything is clean and nice. And it’s the teachers too, thinking that some children are not even supposed to come to school. But for them to go with their friends is really good for their socialisation and has a big impact.”
With six SNAP groups, six hundred members and a new group due to launch in neighbouring Nandom, the bond within the SNAP team is one of its biggest strengths.
“The team – me, Esther and Ernestina – is great. We are always together, supporting each other. There is love among us, and there is togetherness. And working with the Nandom team will be a plus. I will train them – and they will also train me, it will be very lovely. Maybe they know some things more than me, so I will also learn.”
With Helen, Esther and Ernestina, the future for SNAP in Lawra and Nandom looks hopeful, and we can’t wait to see what the next ten years bring.
Helen with SNAP Advisor Dee Anderson and her fellow SNAP Coordinators, Esther and Ernestina