From economic growth to social inclusion: A social worker’s experience of leading rural development in Divle Village, Türkiye

Abstract

This article presents practice-based reflections from a rural development program implemented under social work leadership in Divle Village, Türkiye. Following the geographical indication registration of Divle Obruk Cave Cheese, the program aimed to turn economic opportunity into inclusive community development through cooperative strengthening, women’s participation, intergenerational knowledge transfer, and community-based tourism. Early outcomes included fairer production arrangements, greater women’s visibility, mentoring between generations, and increased youth engagement, despite limited resources and persistent gender norms. The article suggests that social workers can support rural development by linking economic growth with participation, equity, and social inclusion in marginalized communities internationally.