23rd Vona du Toit Memorial Lecture: Economic occupations: The 'hidden key' to transformation

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This lecture aims to acknowledge both individual and collective professional achievements by occupational therapists in South Africa. It highlights specific work done which contributes to the development of occupational therapy nationally and internationally. In line with the Congress theme, "Rooted in Africa: diverse realities and possibilities", it acknowledges the diverse realities and contexts in which occupational therapy is practised particularly in developing countries. The transformation process that is taking place in South Africa seems to be focussing on politics rather than on the economic needs of the majority of the population which result from poverty and unemployment. The lecture proposes that occupational therapists should prioritise economic occupations which could lead to greater economic freedom and empowerment of clients and their communities.

Key words: Economic occupations, transformation, diverse realities and contexts, individual and collective professional achievements