Community
Barnet awards top accolade to deaf association CEO
Sue Cipin is recognised for lifetime achievement
May 20, 2021 10:21
Sue Cipin is recognised for lifetime achievement
May 20, 2021 10:21Jewish Deaf Association chief executive Sue Cipin has received the Barnet Civic Award for Lifetime Achievement in recognition of her services to the deaf.
Nominated by local MP Mike Freer, Edgware Synagogue’s Rabbi David Lister and a number of clients, Ms Cipin was presented with the award by Barnet Deputy Mayor Councillor Lachhya Bahadur Gurung.
The award is given to one person each year in respect of exceptional and continued commitment to Barnet life.
Since joining the charity in 1999, Ms Cipin has revolutionised its services, fulfilling its mission of a world without barriers to communication between deaf and hearing people.
Lead nominator Neil Kaufman, who is deaf, said she had “improved the lives of so many people who, through lack of communication, can often feel left out of society. She goes the extra mile to ensure that the JDA caters for us all.
“Although she must be under a great deal of pressure, especially with the restrictions caused by the pandemic, she always comes out smiling. Sue is truly a selfless and remarkable lady.”
Mr Freer acknowledged Ms Cipin’s “tireless” efforts on behalf of the JDA, adding that she had made “a real difference in all sorts of ways to those living with hearing loss”.
Ms Cipin said she felt honoured to have been chosen. “But even more than that, I am so proud of the incredible work all our staff have done, keeping so many vulnerable deaf and deafblind people safe, well and mentally stable.
“Being a part of the JDA community is not only crucial to our clients. It feeds the souls of all of us who are lucky enough to work here. I feel truly blessed to be a part of the JDA family.”