The Disney characters that should have been social workers

WOODY FROM TOY STORY

“The important thing is that we stick together”

This loveable cowboy toy captured the hearts of a generation. Woody is smart, determined, brave and fiercely loyal; but he is also perfectly flawed when we see him grappling with complex human emotions such as doubt, vulnerability, frustration, jealousy, and sadness. His story arc shows his development from a single-minded manager of the other toys, to a courageous, dependable, and compassionate leader. Woody has all the markings of a good social worker, and is a trusted confidant. He is determined to do the right thing and finds a creative solution to any problem – no matter how daunting. I could imagine him being unfazed when dealing with a duty crisis on a Friday afternoon and leading his team through the ups and downs of social work.

RAFIKI FROM THE LION KING

“The past can hurt, the way I see it, you can either run from it or learn from it”

This wise Sharman has a rather unique way of teaching life lessons, and whilst I’m certainly not advocating that social workers hit people with sticks to help them learn from the past, Rafiki’s energy gives him a strong social worker vibe. Rafiki doesn’t tell the other characters what to do – rather he gives them nuggets of advice which empower the characters to work out the answer for themselves. Once you look beyond his eccentricities, you can see that Rafiki is a talented guide who would do well in resolving conflict and family mediation. I envisage Rafiki as an old-school maverick of a social worker who would challenge bureaucracy yet achieve results due to his intrinsic understanding of human nature and ability to solve complex problems.

JIMINY CRICKET FROM PINOCCHIO

“Always let your conscience be your guide”

Also known as the Lord Highkeeper of the Knowledge of Right and Wrong, Counsellor in Moments of High Temptation, and Guide Along the Straight and Narrow Path, Jiminy Cricket has the perfect value base to be an excellent social worker. This smart, witty and wise character offers counsel to Pinocchio and acts as his voice of reason. Jiminy is down to earth, practical, brave and humble. It’s not surprising that in the spin-off show Once Upon A Time, Jiminy Cricket’s alter ego is Archie Hopper - an empathetic psychiatrist who is a trusted therapist and mediator in Storybrooke.

ESMERALDA FROM THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME

“You speak of justice, yet you are cruel to those most in need of your help”

Whilst many Disney films deal with the human condition, The Hunchback of Notre Dame is arguably one of the most ‘adult’ films from the family collection, exposing the darker side of society. If you haven’t watched it since childhood, I urge you to go back and view it through a social work lens. It contains complex themes including discrimination, racism, misogyny, prejudice, lust, and grapples with the concept of what it means to be a monster. As one of the central characters, Esmeralda embodies righteousness and kindness, despite facing discrimination for being a Gypsy, and a working woman. Esmeralda is fearless, with a heart of gold. She doesn’t judge by appearances and is a passionate advocate for anyone who doesn’t fit in with what society deems “normal.” Her gentleness with Quasimodo, and her ability to listen and know exactly what to say, radiates social worker vibes.

MIRABEL FROM ENCANTO

“Even in our darkest moments, there’s light where you least expect it”

Mirabel’s empathy, tolerance, compassion and understanding would stand her in excellent stead for a career in social work. Her knowledge of intergenerational trauma makes her an expert by experience, which she could draw upon to support others in similar situations. From empowering Isabella to follow her own path, expertly comforting Antonio before his gift ceremony, and teaching Alma to accept each family member for who they are and not what they can do, Mirabel has the potential to be the type of social worker everyone should aspire to be.