Fellows mentioned in this story: Josie Howard

From Hawai‘i Business Magazine:

When life becomes too hard to handle on your own, social workers often step in to help. But social work itself is demanding — emotionally, psychologically and physically — and the pay is low compared to other professions.

So why do so many social workers dedicate their entire careers to this field? Hawaii Business Magazine asked some of Hawaiʻi’s most respected social workers what they do and why they do it.

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Jocelyn “Josie” Howard

Jocelyn Howard grew up in Micronesia on the island of Chuuk, where traditionally women have been the primary caretakers for their families because men were often absent while fishing or attending meetings on other islands. She says that feeling this responsibility inspired her to pursue a college education in Hawaiʻi.

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree from UH Hilo, Howard worked in the private sector before joining the state Department of Health. There she became familiar with government systems and policies, which helped shape her perspective and purpose.

“That was also when Micronesians were taking a lot of blame — being labeled as the problem, the newest group in Hawaiʻi that people said was causing issues.”

In addition to her bachelor’s degree, Howard has a master’s in social work from UH Mānoa. She’s been in the field 15 years now, and it hasn’t always been easy.

“The hardest part was honestly being who I am while going through a system that doesn’t see you for who you are or recognize your individual needs, especially those shaped by your cultural background and values,” Howard says.

Continue reading at HawaiiBusiness.com.