International Resilience Conference addressed by Minister Fritz
The Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) today hosted over 200 guests at the International Resilience Conference in Salt River.
The conference was held in partnership with the Rutgers University (USA), the Cornerstone Institute, and the Community Chest. Approximately 17 distinguished academics and social thinkers from all over the world presented research and projects that give insight into individual, community and societal resilience.
In opening the conference, Minister Fritz expressed the importance of all discussions to be geared towards action. “Let today be more than just another talk-shop. You are in the fortunate position of being able to influence the Western Cape Government, and specifically DSD, which has a team of well over 900 social workers, who on a day-to-day basis deal with fostering individual and community resilience in the province”, said MEC Fritz.
The conference saw the presentation of 9 data and experience driven presentations from academics, expert officials from the department and leaders of NGOs. They touched on matters related to gangsterism, individual psycho-social resilience, and community resilience increasingly through organized social movements.
The presenters included key thinkers from within the province and internationally, such as;
- Dr. Heidi Sauls (Social researcher, Department of Social Development)
- Dr. Kyle Farmby (Dean: Graduate School – Rutgers University)
- Dr. Geci Karuri-Sebina (Executive Manager – SA Cities Network)
The department will continue to work with all sectors of society, including NGOs, business, academics and communities. We will continue to build partnerships and work ‘Better Together’.
Media enquiries:
Minister Albert Fritz
Cell: 083 307 0192
Sihle Ngobese
Tel: 021 483 9217
Cell: 076 083 6543
E-mail: Sihle.Ngobese@westerncape.gov.za
