An Adelaide woman who has spent years leading and supporting new initiatives to enable older Australians to live their best life, has been awarded the inaugural Office for Ageing Well Tackling Ageism Award.
Office for Ageing Well Director, Cassie Mason, said Kerry Jones received the honour along with $2,000 in prizes for her relentless work to transform the experience of ageing.
"Kerry demonstrated her superior understanding of the pervasive nature of ageism and how she is taking action, both professionally and personally, to challenge it and better promote the value of older people and ageing well," Ms Mason said.
"Ageism works against inclusion, ultimately creating a society that does not value the input of its older members.
"By tackling ageism, we can break barriers and bust myths and stereotypes so South Australians, no matter their age, can live well."
Kerry is an ongoing member of the EveryAGE Counts Coalition Steering Committee and is a panel member of the Governor's Leaders Fellowship Program.
She has also worked with The Australian Centre for Social Innovation for more than seven years, playing a key role in developing programs designed to reimagine the future of ageing well.
Ms Mason said the award was open to individuals, community groups and non-profit organisations actively working to challenge ageism and highlight the value of older people and ageing well.
"This award aims to promote an inclusive society, moving beyond ageism, under South Australia's Plan for Ageing Well 2020-2025," Ms Mason said.
"I congratulate all of our 19 entrants, particularly our other finalists ACH Group and COTA SA.
"We are extremely proud to see so many great initiatives underway across the state working to confront and overcome discrimination against older South Australians."
The Office for Ageing Well Tackling Ageism Award was presented online as part of the South Australian Community Achievement Awards.
