CASS Foundation Chairperson and Honorary Executive Director, Mr Henry Pan OAM, was inducted into The ZEST Hall of Fame in a Presentation Ceremony held at Sydney Olympic Stadium on Friday, 17 June 2022. A crowd of over 420 people attended this inspiring evening.

The Hon. Dominic Perrottet MP, Premier of NSW, Patron of the Awards made a pre-recorded video to congratulate and recognize the exceptional people, community organisations, businesses and their outstanding achievements made in Western Sydney.  In his Message, NSW Premier said “The past few years have been tough but they are no match for the people of our State. Despite the challenges of the last two years, over 100 nominations have been received for this year’s Awards, a testament to the strength and spirit of Greater Western Sydney.”  “This region has deep historical roots, with the energy and optimism of a surging population and we know that when the West goes well, our entire state goes well.” He expressed his thanks at the end of the Message to all who had made the Zest Awards a huge success.   

The Hon. Mark Coure MP, Minister for Multiculturalism and Minister for Seniors, was present on behalf of the Premier to give the Patron Address and as one of the Award presenters. Mr Coure stated, “The marvellous power of innovation and unconditional dedication to serving the community demonstrated by all the Awards nominees are inspiring and touching. The ZEST Awards promote Western Sydney’s assets, diversity, passion, creativity and innovation.”   

The ZEST Hall of Fame celebrates and recognizes the remarkable contributions of people who have dedicated their lives to achieving great outcomes for the Community, making extraordinary impact within the Community Services Sector, building Western Sydney a better place to live.  Over the past seven years, ten people have been inducted into the ZEST Hall of Fame.

Henry’s induction into the ZEST 2022 Hall of Fame is a recognition of his exceptional commitment, sustained achievements and remarkable accomplishments in the Community, and also his selfless dedication, perseverance and benevolence in working for the benefit of others. The crowd burst into thunderous applause when Henry received the Award on stage, as a mark of respect to this community leader for his significant contributions to the community sector across Western Sydney.

In the Address of Mr. Chris Minns MP, NSW Leader of the Opposition, he spoke highly of Henry for his 41 years of unceasing commitment and contributions to the Australian community. Under Henry’s leadership, CASS has developed into a well-established social and welfare services provider with an annual turnover of over 40 million dollars, becoming also an influential multicultural community organization across Western Sydney.  

The ZEST Awards, led by Western Sydney Community Forum, have celebrated nearly 1,200 outstanding projects and individuals from the community over the past eleven years. 10 Awards including Outstanding Youth Leader, Outstanding Project Working with Aboriginal Communities in Western Sydney, Outstanding Volunteer Community Leader, Hall of Fame, etc. are presented.  The Awards bring together community, government, and businesses to recognise Western Sydney’s unsung heroes.

CASS Board members, Mr. Anthony Pang, Mr Sean Zhang, Professor Stephen Li and several senior staff members attended the event to celebrate the exceptional people and the extraordinary impact they have on their local communities.

Congratulations to Henry and all the amazing award winners! You all are recognized as role models and inspirations to us!