The award recognises an individual, community group or organisation that understands the pervasive nature of ageism, is taking action to challenge it, and can demonstrate tangible actions to confront and overcome discrimination against older South Australians.

The finalists for 2022 are: The Art Bus, Embraced, Australian Refugee Association (ARA), Kapunda Senior Citizens and Mindset for Life.

The Art Bus has successfully engaged with hundreds of older South Australians to tackle ageism through offering diverse visual arts experiences including through Art Around the Table, which empowers individuals to explore creatively while building skills, confidence, social connections, and community cohesion.

Embraced brings together young artists and older people to forge intergenerational connections through artistic professional development opportunities, leading young people to become advocates for positive attitudes towards older people.

ARA has been nominated for its work with more than 100 men from refugee or migrant backgrounds aged 50 and over. The Zimala Project uses excursions, games, and information sessions to foster new friendships across language barriers, nourishes new interests and helps new arrivals connect and actively participate in their new country.

Kapunda Senior Citizens Club has thrived for 53 years and is open to all. It is led by volunteers and offers five weekly activities: Art Group, Fitness Classes, Indoor bowls, Founding Seniors group and Social Saturday.

Mindset for Life challenges people to reconsider ‘retirement’ and redefine it purposefully, to transform how they think and act as they enter this new phase of life.

It is the third year Office for Ageing Well has offered the Tackling Ageism Award with 22 nominations received in total.

To find out more and book tickets for the Gala Presentation Dinner at the Hilton Adelaide on Friday 2 December, see SA Community Achievement Awards.