By Bianca Smit, Network Coordinator, Solidarity Social Workers Network

On International Social Workers’ Day, people across the country paused to reflect on those who work daily in the shadows – those who step in where others walk past, who listen where others remain silent, and who bring hope where it is often lacking.

One of these remarkable individuals is Gerda van der Merwe. She was recently named one of seven national Bearers of Hope for 2026, specifically as Limpopo’s Bearer of Hope.

The Bearer of Hope Award, an initiative of Solidarity’s Social Workers Network and Solidarity Helping Hand, was established in 2022 with a simple yet deeply meaningful purpose: to recognise social workers who often make an immeasurable difference without being seen. These are people who do not simply do their jobs, but who bring their calling to life.

Gerda is one of those people.

What makes her award all the more special is not only her years of service or her professional expertise, but the impact she has on the lives of others – even to the point of changing the direction of their lives.

The adjudication process was handled by an independent advisory panel, which assessed candidates impartially and awarded scores based solely on experience and motivation. Gerda achieved the highest score in her region – a clear indication of her deep commitment and her determination to make a real difference in people’s lives.

One of the judges’ motivations expresses more than any formal description ever could:

“I am a social worker because from a young age I knew I wanted to make a real difference in people’s lives. The example of Gerda van der Merwe and her incredible passion for people in need touched me so deeply that I never considered any other profession. I have seen first-hand the difference her humanity, empathy and selfless service make in people’s lives, and it confirmed my calling to serve others with the same heart and dedication.”

This is the true legacy of a social worker – not only the lives you touch, but the new generations you inspire.

For Gerda herself, her calling is simple yet powerful:

“I am passionate about developing human potential, helping to improve people’s life circumstances and giving them hope.”

It is precisely this focus on hope – tangible, practical and human – that makes her a worthy recipient of the Bearer of Hope Award.

Gerda now moves on to the next round of adjudication, where she has the opportunity to be named one of the top three national Bearers of Hope for 2026.

But for those who know her and work with her, the title is already clear: she is not only a Bearer of Hope – she is someone who embodies that hope every day.