Social work in the Netherlands is attracting an increasing number of Turkish and Moroccan Dutch professionals, mostly second-generation migrant women from a Muslim background. Inspired by
Amartya Sen’s capability approach, this article presents the findings of a qualitative content analysis
of 40 interviews with professionals by peers from the same background. The question is, what
kind of professionals do these newly started social workers desire to be and what hindrances do
they encounter? The professionals challenge the dominance of Western beliefs and values. This
becomes tangible in their desires and constraints and especially in the process of choice.