05/15/2026
New "The Social Worker Podcast Episode" Featuring Jaeyell Kim
In this episode of The Social Worker Podcast, presented by the Canadian Association of Social Workers, we’re joined by Jaeyell Kim, a Korean-Canadian social worker, educator, and mental health advocate whose work is deeply rooted in supporting youth, newcomers, and families across Canada.
Jaeyell shares his journey into social work, shaped by his own lived experience navigating racism, migration, and identity. From being one of the only Korean-speaking social workers in his community to building more accessible and culturally responsive care, his story highlights the critical role of representation in mental health services.
In this conversation, we explore:
What “transitional trauma” means and how it impacts newcomers navigating unfamiliar systems
The realities of language barriers, stigma, and access to care in immigrant communities
How culturally grounded practice can build trust, safety, and connection
Jaeyell’s creative use of comics and storytelling to make mental health more approachable
His advice to the next generation of social workers on cultural humility and lifelong learning
This episode is a powerful reminder that social work is not just about services — it’s about understanding, belonging, and meeting people where they are.
🎙️ Tune in and be part of the conversation as we continue celebrating 100 years of CASW and the voices shaping its future.
