Sarah Houbolt

UQ Social Work graduate Sarah Houbolt has combined a passion for the performing arts with her social work degree for a successful career in community cultural development.

The diversity of jobs available in the social work industry means it is possible to pursue a career helping people in the context of an interest you are passionate about.

For Sarah this has meant a career engaging the community through cultural activities.

Sarah is currently a Community Arts Coordinator (Youth) with Auckland City Council in New Zealand.

In this role Sarah manages community arts projects in low socio-economic areas of Auckland and supports artists, community and cultural organisations to implement community cultural development processes and frameworks.

Prior to this, Sarah worked in a range of different jobs across the industry.

“I’ve worked in community and network development with people with disability across Queensland. I’ve worked at the Residential Tenancies Authority, and at Child Poverty Action Group in New Zealand. All of these roles have required the social analysis that I developed during the degree.”

According to Sarah, the best part about the Bachelor of Social Work at UQ is the balance of theoretical and practical components.

“The theory we learnt and practice framework that we began to develop in the social work degree provided a solid ground for future practical learning on the job. Having a social work degree definitely opened doors for me.”

In terms of advice for future students considering the Bachelor of Social Work and in particular a career in community cultural development, Sarah comments: “The relationship building skills and a working knowledge of upholding human rights and social justice values are central to effective practice. Having a social work degree sets you apart from the majority of Community Cultural Development workers, who have come from an artist background.”
 

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