Afea holds inaugural event to celebrate International Day of People with Disability
Thank you to all our clients, support workers, office team members and alliance partners who joined us at our inaugural Family Fun Day at Sydney Zoo!
This was held on Saturday, 3 December, to celebrate the International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD).
“IDPwD is aimed at increasing public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability,” said Gaurav Oberoi, CEO of Afea.
“With Sydney Zoo designed to be inclusive for all guests, this makes it the perfect place for us to enjoy a day out and celebrate the clients in our care and to give thanks to the staff and support workers assisting them every day.”
Marilyn Stafford is Support Worker of the Year
Marilyn Stafford was named Support Worker of the Year during the special program. In attendance were over 450 guests composed of Afea staff, support workers, family members and partners in the disability and aged care industry.
Councillor Moninder Singh, representing Mayor of Blacktown City Tony Bleasedale OAM, presented Marilyn Stafford with the Support Worker of the Year Award during the special program.
“Blacktown City Council is proud to work closely with our local disability service organisations as we work together for a more inclusive community, where every one of us feels empowered to live our very best life,” Mayor Bleasedale said in a statement.
He continued: “Afea’s team works hard to provide a compassionate care for people living with a disability and the elderly. It is a pleasure to see Ms Stafford awarded for her dedicated service. She was recognised for going above and beyond in providing care for clients with very complex needs. Her vital work, and that of her fellow support workers, should rightly be applauded.”
“I would like to thank Afea for this award,” Ms Stafford said. “It is my great honour to be of service.”
Performances from Perform Ability
The program also featured a performance from the award-winning all-abilities dance group Perform Ability, who made history as the first Australian team to qualify for the World Latin Cup held in the United States.
Event attendees were treated to a variety of delights and attractions, including free face painting sessions, discounted Ferris Wheel rides, reptile encounters and a prize draw.
“This hallmark event is a culmination of our efforts to deeply reconnect with our clients and employees, especially after two years of revolving lockdowns,” said Joseph Assad, Head of People & Culture at Afea.
“It’s a great way to show our gratitude to our clients and carers and further promote inclusive practices in our community.”
Special Prizes and Event Partners
Prizes include vouchers and merchandise packs from Penrith Panthers, Western Sydney Wanderers, Parramatta Eels and Blacktown Westpoint.
Afea’s event partners also include Salesforce, Leora, Vertic, St Mary’s Village, Nepean Village, Care Squared and Blue Wing Care Professionals.
Afea has previously been recognised for our outstanding work culture, having been named the 2022 Outstanding Employer of Choice by the Western Sydney Awards for Business Excellence. We were also a 2022 finalist for the Blacktown City Council’s Organisation of the Year award.
Check out our video and event photos below! View more photos in our Facebook album.
