by Ethel Zidenga
When I first began my internship at the Sabo Center for Democracy and Citizenship, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I knew I’d be challenged. I hoped I’d be changed. What I didn’t anticipate was how deeply this experience would shape not only my understanding of community engagement, but also my place within it.
One of the most transformative parts of this internship was the opportunity to explore the meaning of community engagement. I spent time researching how it is defined and practiced, and I quickly realized that true community engagement must be intentional. Whether it’s a partnership between an institution and a community, or among individuals, both sides need to be fully invested and both must receive equitable benefit. Just as importantly, both parties must have an equal voice in setting the goals and defining what success looks like.
Too often, institutions hold the upper hand in these relationships, directing the terms and outcomes. But if we are serious about creating anti-oppressive and anti-racist models of engagement, we must center the voices of marginalized communities. Their leadership, knowledge, and lived experiences must guide the work, not be tokenized or added on as an afterthought. This shift in power is not optional; it is essential.
During my time at the Sabo Center, I also had the opportunity to dive into powerful readings that pushed me further in my thinking. One that left a lasting impact was Hospicing Modernity by Vanessa Machado de Oliveira. I truly believe everyone should read this book. I only wish I had encountered it at the beginning of my MSW journey, but perhaps it wouldn’t have impacted me the way it just did. Sometimes the right book finds you when you’re ready.
In Hospicing Modernity, Vanessa challenges us to unlearn everything we’ve been taught by oppressive systems. She calls on us to recognize the harms embedded in modernity, systems that reward domination, extraction, and control, and instead be part of birthing something new. Her words awakened something in me: a deeper responsibility not just to question oppressive systems, but to actively participate in creating liberatory ones. She reminded me that being uncomfortable is necessary and that unlearning is a lifelong process.
I am also incredibly thankful for the mentorship and support I received from my field supervisor, Dr. Alex Fink, and my task supervisor, Ms. Jenean Gilmer. They created a brave and safe space where I could make mistakes, ask hard questions, cry when I needed to, and grow into a more critical and reflective practitioner. Their encouragement helped me find my voice and stay grounded, even when I was struggling to extend grace to myself. I will forever be grateful for the compassion, honesty, and guidance they offered throughout my internship.
Reflecting on this journey, I truly believe that the MSW program and the Sabo Center are a perfect partnership at Augsburg University. I may be biased, but the way both programs embrace holistic approaches to learning, justice, and community makes them a powerful team. The MSW program gave me the theoretical foundation, while the Sabo Center gave me a living, breathing classroom in the real world. Together, they shaped an experience that was not just educational but transformative.
As I close this chapter, I carry with me more than new skills. I carry a renewed sense of purpose and commitment. I will continue to unlearn, to listen, to act with intention, and to walk alongside others as we collectively build a more just and compassionate world.
Ethel Zidenga completed a Master of Social Work in Spring of 2025. She spent a year as an intern in the Sabo Center with Jenean Gilmer and Alex Fink, developing an extensive Community Partner Database, researching definitions and practices of community engagement, participating in relationship building and community development in the Cedar-Riverside Neighborhood. Her contributions are deeply appreciated and continue to provide meaningful support.