The Australian Refugee Association (ARA) has won the Office for Ageing Well Tackling Ageism Award 2022.

ARA, which operates in Salisbury, Torrensville and Mitchell Park, works with newly arrived community members, supporting them to participate actively in life in South Australia.

Office for Ageing Well Acting Executive Director, Cassie Mason, said the Office for Ageing Well Tackling Ageism Award recognised ARA’s holistic approach – bringing community members together through the Zimala* Project.

“ARA demonstrated its commitment to tackling ageism, encouraging participants to stay active and engaged in the world, both mentally and physically, using the project to overcome loneliness and face ageism head-on,” Ms Mason said.

“It worked with more than 100 men aged 50 and over from Syrian, Afghani, Hazara, Pashtun and African refugee and migrant backgrounds, connecting them with health and government services information, offering social opportunities such as beach and fishing excursions and trips to parks and community gardens, which for many are new destinations.

“Recognising that inclusion is fundamental to challenging ageism, it linked the men into the wider community, empowering them to share wisdom, knowledge and experiences despite varying cultural, social and economic backgrounds.

“I congratulate all 22 Award nominees, including our other finalists, Embraced Incorporated, The Art Bus, Mindset for Life, and the Kapunda Senior Citizens’ Club.

“Office for Ageing Well is greatly encouraged that such diverse organisations and individuals are taking action to challenge ageism and better promote the value of older people and ageing well.

“We continue to work through South Australia’s Plan for Ageing Well 2020-2025 to overcome discrimination so South Australians, no matter their age, can live well,” said Ms Mason.

Ms Mason presented the Office for Ageing Well Tackling Ageism Award on Friday 2 December at the South Australian Community Achievement Awards.

* Zimala is Arabic for fellowship.