Building a stronger future

Zayden Dare-Rainey is in his third year of studying social work at the University of Tasmania. He has been chosen by the University to receive the 2025 Anglicare Scholarship in Social Work.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a Palawa man who has spent a lot of time supporting local Aboriginal communities and families. In my downtime, I find myself spending time on country with daily walks to local areas that create a mindful moment to reflect and reset. I am the eldest brother to two siblings and play a vital role in shaping and creating memories and opportunities for them. I also enjoy photography and travelling with the people I love.

What attracted you to social work as a career? Has it been a straightforward journey?

I started my career in social justice with the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre, supporting and mentoring young Aboriginal people throughout their school journeys.

I am five years into a career with the Department for Children, Education and Young People as an Aboriginal Family Safety Worker based at a local Child & Family Learning Centre.

I was influenced by my mentor and Centre Leader to start a study journey into Social Work. It wasn’t an overnight decision but the attraction was to enhance my skills and ability and to understand both holistic and practical frameworks to better support my Aboriginal community and families.

How have you found your study experience at UTAS?

It has been supportive and full of opportunities. The flexibility of studying and working part-time ensures I can take care of myself, be mindful and spend time reflecting and with friends and family.

 I haven’t been on a work placement yet, but look forward to jumping into the real-world scenarios where I can apply my taught insights and frameworks.

Are there any practice areas that particularly appeal to you?

I see myself moving toward practice areas that focus on Aboriginal family and child wellbeing, community development, and social justice advocacy.

I am particularly passionate about working within culturally safe frameworks to empower Aboriginal voices in spaces where they have often been overlooked.

Long-term, I would also love to be involved in policy work or mentoring roles that influence positive systemic change for Aboriginal communities.

What advice would you give someone considering a career in social work?

I would tell them that social work is a journey, not just a job. It is a career that challenges you to grow, reflect, and stay grounded in your purpose.

My advice would be to stay connected to your values, be open to learning from every experience, and remember that self-care is just as important as caring for others.

Community, support networks, and reflective practice are key to longevity and staying true to why you started the journey.

How will the scholarship help you with your studies?

Receiving this scholarship will relieve some of the financial pressures that come with balancing work, study, and family commitments. It will allow me to continue investing in my education without needing to reduce my work hours significantly, which means I can maintain strong connections with the families I support while also focusing on achieving the best outcomes in my studies.

It will also open up opportunities for me to attend additional professional development and learning experiences that I might not otherwise be able to afford.

I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship. Every step forward in my education and career is a reflection not just of my own efforts, but of the support, strength, and resilience of my community. I am committed to using what I learn to give back and create positive change that honours those who came before me and builds a stronger future for those who will come after.

More information

The Anglicare Scholarship in Social Work is worth $5,000. It is offered each year to a third or fourth year student of social work at the University of Tasmania. The University selects the scholarship winner.

Read interviews with former scholarship recipients Georgie Jones (2024) and Louise Adams (2023).

Visit the University of Tasmania’s School of Social Work webpage for course outlines, information on career opportunities and student case studies.