Hoggatt Injury Law Scholarship Fall 2024 Winner

Issa Kabeer

Issa Kabeer has been selected as the Fall 2024 award winner of the Hoggatt Injury Law Children of Injured Workers Scholarship. A senior at Temple University, Issa plans to further advocate for the disenfranchised through social work and law after he graduates.

Read Issa’s Essay:

My academic journey has been deeply intertwined with my passion for social work and legal studies. Currently a senior at Temple University, I am majoring in social work and minoring in legal studies, with an unwavering commitment to creating meaningful change within communities. My ultimate academic goal is to pursue a master’s degree in social work (MSW) and then a Juris Doctor (JD). By combining these fields, I aim to advocate for and implement policies that address systemic issues affecting marginalized populations.

As the President of the Social Work Collective and the GBM Coordinator for Active Minds, I have seen firsthand the impact that dedicated, informed advocacy can have on individual lives and broader communities. These roles have honed my leadership skills and deepened my understanding of the intersectionality of social issues. Additionally, my work as a STARS Coordinator for both Eta Sigma Gamma and Alpha Delta Mu has strengthened my resolve to bridge gaps between social work and legal frameworks to foster more inclusive and supportive environments.

This scholarship will be instrumental in achieving my academic and career goals by providing the financial support necessary to continue my education without the burden of debt. The resources and opportunities afforded by this scholarship will allow me to focus on my studies and gain practical experience through internships and community projects. Moreover, the scholarship will enable me to participate in conferences, workshops, and seminars that are crucial for staying abreast of the latest research and developments in both social work and legal studies.

With the financial stability provided by this scholarship, I will be able to dedicate more time to my roles in various organizations, thereby continuing to build on the initiatives I have started. It will also allow me to explore interdisciplinary research opportunities that can inform my approach to policy advocacy, ensuring that I am well-prepared to make a tangible difference in the lives of those I aim to serve.

My parents have been my greatest source of inspiration in my educational journey. Their relentless work ethic, resilience, and unwavering support have shaped my aspirations and fueled my drive to excel. Growing up, I witnessed their sacrifices and dedication to providing me with the best possible opportunities. They instilled in me the values of perseverance, empathy, and the importance of education as a tool for empowerment.

My father, a social worker himself, has shown me the profound impact that one can have on individuals and communities through dedicated service. His stories of helping people navigate complex social systems and advocating for their rights have deeply influenced my decision to pursue social work. My mother's support and belief in my potential have given me the confidence to tackle challenges head-on and strive for excellence in all my endeavors. Their encouragement to pursue higher education and their belief in its transformative power have been the cornerstone of my academic journey. They have always emphasized the importance of using one's skills and knowledge to give back to the community, a lesson that has been the guiding principle in my career aspirations.

In conclusion, this scholarship will play a pivotal role in helping me achieve my academic and career goals by providing the financial support necessary to continue my education and actively engage in community advocacy. My parents' unwavering support and the values they have instilled in me continue to inspire my commitment to education and social justice. With this scholarship, I am confident that I will be able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I aim to serve, just as my parents have inspired me to do.