For many newly qualified professionals, social media is a place to switch off. For Lashonté Royal, it’s become something more – a space to reflect, connect, and inspire others who share her passion for social work.

Lashonté’s Instagram account, @Dearsocialworker_, began during her second year at university as a place to document her progress and share insights. Today, it’s a growing online community where students, early-career practitioners, and experienced professionals come together to share insights, encouragement, and lived experiences from across the profession.

A personal space that became a public platform

“I started my page on the first day of my social work placement,” says Lashonté. “At the time, not many people were doing that. I wanted to document my learning, mistakes, and growth as a person and professional.”

What began as a reflective diary soon evolved into something bigger. Her openness and authenticity struck a chord with others, and the page steadily grew into a trusted, positive space for aspiring and qualified social workers alike.

It’s so difficult to connect with other young social workers and have the opportunity to ask questions, so I wanted to create that space.

“I wanted to share tips, things I’ve learned, books I think are helpful – and most of all, create a network. It’s so difficult to connect with other young social workers and have the opportunity to ask questions, so I wanted to create that space.”

It’s also a space that reflects her commitment to professionalism. Despite her online presence, Lashonté remains careful never to share details about her employer or the people she works with. “I’m very aware of confidentiality,” she says. “The focus is always on reflection and learning – never on cases.”

Challenging stereotypes, celebrating the profession

Through @Dearsocialworker_, Lashonté has built a community that doesn’t shy away from the realities of social work, but always leads with empathy, encouragement, and positivity.

Her posts often explore what it means to be a young practitioner in a demanding field – finding balance, managing emotions, celebrating small wins, and remembering why she chose this profession in the first place.

I hope my page breaks some of the stigmas and stereotypes people have about social workers.

“I hope my page breaks some of the stigmas and stereotypes people have about social workers,” she explains. “There’s so much good happening in this profession – but it doesn’t always get seen. I want to show the human side, the joy, the learning, the growth.”

By sharing her reflections so honestly, she’s become a role model for other young practitioners who might be feeling uncertain about their place in the profession.

The power of relatability

As a young practitioner herself, Lashonté believes that relatability is one of her greatest strengths.

“It’s rewarding when I can support young people and help them become the best version of themselves. Sometimes they just need a little encouragement. I love hearing about their lived experience and what’s important to them – it’s always about relationships.”

That same authenticity is what makes her online presence resonate. It’s not about polished success stories, but about growth, honesty, and connection. Her content is both uplifting and real – reminding others that being a social worker means learning as you go, leaning on your team, and staying true to your purpose.

Creating community – and inspiring the next generation

In a profession that can sometimes feel isolating, especially early on, platforms like @Dearsocialworker_ play an important role in building connection and reducing stigma.

Lashonté’s page has become a supportive hub for aspiring social workers, students preparing for their placements, and those completing their ASYE year – people who might otherwise struggle to find community and reassurance.

Her journey shows that when social workers share their experiences, they not only empower others but also strengthen the profession itself.

A profession built on connection

At Pertemps Social Care, we understand that connection and community are at the heart of great social work. Lashonté’s story – from student to award-winning practitioner and online community-builder – reflects the very best of the profession: empathy, resilience, reflection, and purpose.

By celebrating stories like hers, we hope to inspire others to take pride in their journey, share their learning, and know they’re not alone.

Lashonté’s example shows us that every voice matters – and when social workers support one another, the whole community grows stronger.