Dr. Sakara Wages

Dr. Sakara Wages is a critical social work scholar and educator whose work centers on challenging dominant narratives and structures within social work education. She earned her Master of Social Work and Ph.D. from the Sandra Rosenbaum School of Social Work at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she also served as a graduate teaching assistant and later an instructor. Her research employs Critical Theory and Black Feminisms to examine how social work pedagogy can perpetuate systemic oppression, with particular attention to the experiences of Black women, children, and families.

Sakara’s approach to psychoeducation centers anti-oppressive practice, helping individuals explore how race, identity, and systemic barriers shape their wellness journeys. She uses education as a tool for healing and transformation, often drawing from Black Feminisms and Critical Theory to guide conversations that reconnect people to their self-worth.

In recovery and wellness work, Sakara collaborates with participants to create practical, culturally grounded plans that support emotional regulation, self-advocacy, and identity development. Her background as an educator allows her to make complex ideas relatable and empowering.

With families, Sakara offers compassionate support that helps caregivers and children strengthen communication, understand behavioral patterns, and build trust—especially for those who feel unseen in traditional systems.

She also supports youth and young adults in developing employment and academic goals, navigating barriers, and embracing their professional identities with confidence and clarity.

As founder of Subversive Social Work, Sakara champions equity and liberation in all she does. Her experience teaching college-level courses and her commitment to anti-oppressive care make her a powerful ally on any care team.