The first award was presented to Father Angelo Buffolo, the Scalabrinian chaplain to the Italian community, who will return to Italy on January 6 to begin his retirement.
For decades, Father Angelo has been a constant presence in the lives of many, offering spiritual support, a listening ear and genuine friendship.
As he himself recalled, his entire mission has been guided by the desire to stand alongside those most in need, particularly older members of the community.
His departure will leave a significant void, but the community has wished him a peaceful and well-deserved retirement in his homeland.
A second recognition went to Nerlyn Blas, an ITSOWEL team leader who has guided the organisation through a complex and rapid transition to an advanced client management system.
Thanks to her high-level expertise in technology, project management and staff leadership, the Stewart Street organisation successfully implemented the AlayaCare system, improving operational efficiency, reporting capabilities and data collection.
ITSOWEL expressed deep appreciation for Nerlyn’s professionalism and her ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
The third award was presented to Mario Mastroianni, who joined ITSOWEL in 2024 as a Social Support Group Facilitator and Care Support Worker.
His daily work, marked by dedication, initiative and genuine care for older people, has been recognised and valued by the executive committee and CEO Giovanna Cardamone.
Mario has distinguished himself through his willingness to introduce new activities, his energy in expanding services for seniors and his deep respect for both the team and the organisation’s mission.
ITSOWEL extended heartfelt thanks for the contribution he has made to the organisation and to the lives of those it supports.
The ceremony offered a meaningful moment of recognition and reflection on the importance of the work carried out every day by those who support the elderly community, reaffirming ITSOWEL’s central role in the Illawarra region.
