The University of South Australia Student Volunteer of the Year Award recognises current students who have made a significant contribution to the wider community and/or campus life through volunteering.
Reene is an international student who has volunteered for more than 200 hours in the past year alone, spending her time helping people who have been released from incarceration to integrate back into society (with OARS Community Transition), providing social outings for the elderly and people with disability (with Holiday Explorers), leading activities and discussions for children impacted by family mental illness (with Kookaburra Kids), as well as supporting UniSA students as an ASR, UniMentor, G’Day Mate, Brekky Bar and USASA volunteer, and a volunteer peer-tutor with the Human Anatomy 100 course.
“I enjoy volunteering as it helps me become more inclusive, learn more about myself, and eradicate a lot of hidden biases I had and learn new values. In the beginning, I was reluctant on spending my time volunteering in a place where I was not getting paid, but as I gradually entered the world of volunteering and community service, it made me realise that I was learning more skills than I could ever do at a job or by reading about something. Being a volunteer has made me make such valuable connections, not only with other volunteers, but with fellow clients or communities as well. I think there is something rewarding about seeing someone happy.”
As an international student, Lucia embraced volunteering roles at UniSA, CELUSA, USASA and StudyAdelaide that helped other international students overcome language barriers, boost their confidence, explore opportunities and scholarships, and enhance their prospects. She also volunteered at the Latin American Society of South Australia (LASSA) by creating workshops that empowered women and strengthened connections with the Latin community, and with the City of Adelaide assisting elderly individuals with their shopping at the Central Market.
“Volunteering with the City of Adelaide has profoundly impacted me, bringing a deep sense of fulfilment and offering peace of mind through meaningful connections and acts of service. Learning from the incredibly inspiring life stories of the seniors not only broadened my perspective, but also reinforced the value of empathy and patience. Their positive feedback and genuine smiles as they said goodbye have been deeply rewarding, demonstrating the significant difference small acts of kindness can make. Similarly, my experience at CELUSA challenged me to develop my communication skills and fostered my own growth. Receiving their gratitude and seeing them achieve their goals through my guidance has been a life-changing experience, continually motivating me to support and empower them.”
Anis Gul Ehsani (Commendation)
Anisha Mahamad Rafik Sama (Commendation)
Christopher Fernandes (Commendation)
Dasuni Jaburuthugoda Gamarachchige (Runner-up)
Deborah Anne Kelly (Commendation)
Melissa Leaver (Commendation)
Rebecca Kerstens (Commendation)
Sasha Yildirimci (Commendation)
> SEARCH FOR VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES
For more information‚ contact:
Leanne Cotter
Coordinator: Student Engagement
Student Engagement Unit
E: leanne.cotter@unisa.edu.au