The Judy Cooper National Excellence Award is presented annually by the New Zealand Society of Diversional and Recreational Therapy Incorporated (NZSDRT Inc.) to recognise outstanding practice among Registered Diversional and Recreational Therapists in Aotearoa.

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Established in August 2018, the award was first presented at the 2019 National Conference in Auckland. It is awarded during the National Conference Dinner, celebrating excellence within the profession.

 

Past Recipients

• 2019 – Barbara Caffell

• 2021 – Annelize Steyn

• 2023 – Ellen Romero

• 2024 – Epiphany Jackson

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• The first winner of this National award was Registered Diversional and Recreational Therapist Barbara Caffell.
   

• The Second winner of this National award was Registered Diversional and Recreational Therapist Annelize Steyn. -https://www.nzherald.co.nz/kapiti-news/news/kapiti-diversional-therapist-annelize-steyn-wins-award-despite-her-own-disability/FRLAUZ3HLEDXS3JZQASOUR5VKI/
   

•  The Third winner of this National award was Registered Diversional and Recreational Therapist Ellen Romero. - https://youtu.be/VGZfaEnQh2I
   

•  The 4th National Award Winner is  Registered Diversional and Recreational Therapist Epiphany Jackson - https://youtu.be/cbF-fXFEs6Y

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Purpose of the Award

NZSDRT Inc. is committed to promoting, fostering, and advancing the profession of Diversional and Recreational Therapy both in New Zealand and internationally.

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This award recognises a Registered Diversional and Recreational Therapist who:

• Demonstrates excellence in practice

• Contributes meaningfully to the wellbeing of individuals, organisations, and communities

• Upholds practice that is relevant, innovative, and impactful

• Shows commitment to ongoing professional and personal development

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Above all, this award honours an unsung hero; someone who consistently goes above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of others through Diversional and Recreational Therapy.

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Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, nominees must:

• Be a Registered Diversional and Recreational Therapist practicing in Aotearoa

• Hold a current financial membership with NZSDRT Inc.

• Have an active and up-to-date practising certificate (registration/license)

Members of the following groups are not eligible:

• NZSDRT Inc. Executive Board

• NZSDRT Inc. Registration Board

• NZSDRT Inc. Conference Committee for that year