Continuing our series for Black History Month, today we spotlight Bernard Akuoko, an alum of Renison’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program. Bernard is a relatively recent grad of the MSW program, he finished in 2022. A black male who lives with low vision, Bernard wanted to utilize an anti- oppressive discipline, cultural competence and social determinants of health in his everyday practice. He chose Renison because of the focus on the relationship between a client’s social determinants of health and access to care. While working toward his MSW, Bernard completed his practicum on campus with UW Counselling Services, where he focused on the experience of BIPOC students. He observed plans to ensure that policies and procedures were anti-racist, and coordinated a student-led advisory committee where BIPOC students gave input on services and programs delivered by UW Counselling.
Bernard is currently working at the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) as a Specialist of Advocacy Education. He is also a member of the board of directors for ASE Foundation for Black People with Disabilities where, as Director of Partnerships, Bernard facilitates conversations, presents, and speaks to anti-Black racism and intersectionality.
To learn more about the ASE Foundation, visit asecommunityfoundation.com
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