Riza Lepasana is based in The Philippines. She never imagined she would become a social worker. Her dream was to becoming an architect. Drawn to creating things with her hands, it would have been a natural fit. But she found herself called to serve children through social work.
Her draw to World Hope International was two-fold. She wanted a role that would allow her to maintain a healthy work-life balance and to work with children in the community. It was important for Riza to pour herself into helping children. Both to find justice for what they endured and to build a solid foundation to heal and be whole.
A case that stands out for her, recounts the journey of a 15-year-old girl who was referred to WHI Philippines. Not only did she experience severe trauma, she was also deprived of justice. Liezel (name changed to protect survivor) had withdrawn from school and social interaction. She carried anger and fear with her everywhere she went.
When Riza met with her, she immediately recognized Liezel’s need for someone to walk alongside her and listen without judgement. She needed someone to affirm her worth until she believed it. It was more than having someone to deal with legal follow ups and provide material supports.
Through HILOM sessions and consistent presence, Riza saw transformation slowly take place. “I began to see how God was moving, not only through the interventions that we provide at WHI, but through the quiet and consistent presence we offered,” Riza shared.
Over time, Liezel returned to school, regained confidence, and began planning for the future: hers and her two children. She shared that beyond WHI’s assistance, it was really God who restored her hope: not just hope for justice but hope for life.
Riza’s work has been as much a journey of personal growth as a professional service. “Conducting HILOM sessions has also been a healing for me. In holding space for others, I learned how to hold space for myself as well.” These moments remind her to slow down, breathe, and be present, not just for her clients, but also for her own struggles.
Social work is complex and multifaceted. It is not only about addressing immediate needs, but about offering consistent presence, nurturing resilience, and helping children regain hope for the future. Riza believes that even in the most difficult circumstances, showing up and walking alongside another person can transform a life, and that is what she holds on to.
Learn more about World Hope International’s Protection Pillar.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6 | NIV
World Hope International (Canada) is a registered charity.
Charitable #869500173 RR 0001
1830 Mountain Road, Suite C
Moncton NB E1G 1A9
+1-613-482-1499
Toll-Free: 877-482-1499
info@worldhope.ca
World Hope International (Canada) funds are confined to Board-approved projects. Funds designated towards a project are used as designated, with the understanding that when the need for that project has been met or cannot be completed for reasons determined by the Board, the remaining funds designated will be used where needed most.