Sandra Iacopetta, a UWA Law student, was today presented with the McCusker Centre for Citizenship’s Outstanding Intern Award at the Centre’s major event for 2023.
One of three recipients of the Award, Sandra was recognised for making a significant contribution through her internship with Legal Aid WA, helping strengthen service delivery for vulnerable young people.
The Awards were presented by McCusker Charitable Foundation Chair, the Honourable Malcolm McCusker AC CVO KC CitWA, and McCusker Charitable Foundation Director, His Honour Judge Denis Reynolds.
A major focus of Sandra’s internship was working on the Disability Advocacy and Referral Diversion for Young People (DARDY) project.
“I created a check-in sheet of questions addressing a range of areas in a young person’s life, including their perceived level of safety, connection to culture, housing and relationships.
“This document is intended to help Legal Aid develop better understandings of young people encountering the criminal justice system, in a holistic and culturally sensitive manner,” Sandra said.
Sandra also worked on a service directory of NDIS providers, including short-term accommodation, physio and occupational therapy, and assistance dog services, to support multi-disciplinary and multi-agency case management.
“The court process can be daunting and overwhelming for anyone, let alone a young person – it was confronting to see young people distressed and upset, but really encouraging to see that the support and care of great lawyers and bail support officers can make a huge difference to a young person’s experience,” said Sandra.
“I decided to apply to the internship program to gain a greater insight into what I may want to do with my degree, but also for an opportunity to give back.”
“A highlight of my internship was getting to know the incredible team at my organisation; everyone I met was dedicated and passionate, and they all cared deeply about their clients and others.
“The experience provided me with a deeper understanding of how the support, care, empathy and time of a great lawyer can benefit a young person who has come into contact with the criminal justice system.
“After my time at Legal Aid I felt encouraged that small things make a world of difference, such as creating a safe space where a young person feels seen and heard,” she said.
Margaret Irvine, DARDY Project Team Leader with Legal Aid WA, said that Sandra’s contribution had been critical to the success of the project.
“Sandra was client focused but also saw the large picture; she applied her skills and thought process practically and with great consideration for risks and issues, and tackled problems head on,” Ms Irvine said.
Hayley Clarke, who interned with the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage and Natalie Lim who interned with the Telethon Kids Institute were also presented with an Outstanding Intern Award.
Image: Sandra Iacopetta, Hayley Clarke, and Natalie Lim, recipients of the McCusker Centre for Citizenship Outstanding Intern Award for Summer and Semester 1 2023 internship rounds
Hayley, Natalie and Sandra were selected as recipients of the Award for the Summer and Semester 1, 2023 internship period from a field of 21 strong nominees.
The Outstanding Intern Award recognises UWA students who go above and beyond in their McCusker Centre for Citizenship internship roles, demonstrating a strong commitment to active citizenship, and is presented twice a year, for interns in the Summer and Semester 1 internship period, and the Winter and Semester 2 period.
“Our end-of-year event is an important opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the Outstanding Intern Award recipients and nominees,” said Michelle Scott OAM, McCusker Centre for Citizenship Director.
“Our panel faced a difficult task selecting the Award recipients. I congratulate all of those nominated on their outstanding efforts, and Sandra for the valuable support she provided to Legal Aid WA through her internship.
“We are delighted to provide students with opportunities for outstanding, real-world learning, through which they can make real and tangible contributions to organisations that are having a positive impact on WA communities.” Ms Scott said.