Over the past three years, I have had the privilege of exploring various civilizations and learning from their approaches to child safeguarding and protection, family strengthening, and right-based approach parenting. This journey has taken me to various parts of the world, broadening my perspective and enriching my understanding of the field.

One of the roles I have had the pleasure of serving in is as a Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem (CASA/GAL) in Franklin County, Columbus, Ohio. In this unique role, I have been appointed by the court to represent the child’s voice in complex legal proceedings, working closely with families, social workers, and attorneys to ensure the child’s needs are met.

Through my experience as a CASA/GAL, I have learned the importance of cultural competence, active listening, and collaboration in navigating the complexities of each case. I have seen firsthand the impact of trauma and adverse childhood experiences on the lives of the children and families I serve, and have learned to prioritize self-care and secondary trauma management in my work. One lesson that stands out is that it takes sacrifices (time, energy, and sharing resources) to represent the best interest of the child everywhere in the world. That is why self-care must never be compromised.

One of the most precious moments for me is when we conclude a case in court and we achieve the best interest of the child. It is a privilege to serve in this role, and I look forward to continuing to learn and grow as a CASA/GAL, making a positive impact in the lives of the children and families I serve.