Sora Community Services (Sora) would like to congratulate David Rippin for being named a finalist for New England Trainee of the Year 2025.
David has been an extremely valuable part of the Sora team for 2 years, he brings a passion for helping people and a willingness to learn. His nomination for this award comes as no surprise to those who work with him, both colleagues and clients.
David moved from New Zealand to Australia when he was 13 years old and he attended school in Tamworth. After school he had numerous jobs but never found his passion.
“I previously spent 5 years working in chicken farms around Tamworth, followed by 12 months working in aged care while completing a Certificate III in Individual Support.
“These experiences, coupled with personal challenges like bullying and mental health struggles, have shaped my compassionate approach to supporting families and individuals. Leading me to the traineeship with Sora.
“The structure of the traineeship has allowed me to balance work, study and family while gaining a qualification. I always thought you had to go to uni to do something like this, so it’s great that I can get qualified and work towards my goal of becoming a case worker in this way.
“When I found out about my nomination for this award I couldn’t have been happier! I’m not too fussed about whether I win or not, for me, the nomination is the biggest part because it shows the belief and confidence others have in me.
“The traineeship has been an incredible learning experience, I’ve grown a lot both personally and professionally. It has really helped me enhance my communication and time management skills and view things from different perspectives, allowing me to offer empathetic, practical support to families.
David’s manager Bryarne has been impressed with his development throughout the traineeship.
“David has always been very keen to learn and apply himself from his very first day. He’s a fantastic team player and very supportive of the organisation. David is passionate about working with families to support and empower them. Clients feel comfortable and that positive change is possible.”
David has also been involved in event organisation and is the Secretary of the RAP Working Group at Sora.
The New England Trainee of the Year Award ceremony takes place at Tamworth Memorial Town Hall, Friday 13 June 2025. All of us here at Sora wish David the best of luck!