One of my earliest experiences and impressions I have of the healthcare system, was when I was 8 years old….. I wanted to work in the hospital to prevent other families going through what my family went through. I was too embarrassed to share this dream with anyone until my final year of high school where I
admitted to the guidance counsellor that I wanted to go to university.

I applied and successfully got into nursing and can proudly say I have worked as a nurse for the past 14 years. In this time, I have also completed a Master of Public Health and Tropical Medicine which has launched many opportunities, including working for Doctors Without Borders. I have worked in remote, low resource settings in developing countries in places such as refugee camps, detention centres and war zones. After every contract overseas, coming home I am relieved to be back in the “lucky” country.   But one of the stark realities which I have never been able to reconcile, is how Australia has one of the best health care systems in the world and yet our First Nations people, have the same health outcomes, if not worse, than those living in developing countries.

It can feel overwhelming and unfair, when you add up all the inequities faced by our mob.  But I refuse to accept that I live in a country where my people, First Nations people, have shorter life expectancies, higher rates of illness and disease, lower levels of income, education, and employment; and higher rates of incarceration. And you start to think, it’s all too much and I’m only one person, how can I make a difference?    Well for me, I took the plunge and went after the dream I’ve always had and applied for medicine, and I got in.

There have been many times throughout my life when people have told me that I’m not smart enough or good enough; or that I’m not capable. I know I’m not alone; I know this is a message which many of our mob have heard countless times throughout their life and a sentiment that our younger generations continue to hear. I want to follow in the lead of my ancestors, to continue to push for systemic change and keep rallying and fighting for our mob and our communities. In the future, I would like to work in remote communities, to be able to provide high quality and holistic primary health care. I want to be a part of improving
the health outcomes for our mob. I also hope that I can inspire the younger generations to have the courage to go after their dreams, just like I have.

This year marked the beginning of my final year of medical studies placement at Royal Darwin Hospital, which has thus far proven to be an enriching experience. Working with the unique and diverse environment of the Top End has further provided me with insights into healthcare delivery for remote populations. Throughout this placement, I encountered a wide spectrum of medical conditions and diseases, including crusted scabies, melioidosis, tuberculosis, leprosy, and other tropical diseases. Engaging with patients with such a diverse range of medical conditions has not only expanded my clinical knowledge and skills but also cultivated within me a profound sense of empathy and a commitment to addressing health disparities. I remain steadfast in my commitment to striving for positive change and health equity for all Australians.

In my final semester of medical studies, I am motivated and dedicated to completing the outstanding assessments, research, and write-ups essential for fulfilling course requirements. This period represents a culmination of years of rigorous learning and practical experience, where I am consolidating my knowledge and skills acquired throughout my medical education. With each completed task, I am gaining confidence in my abilities and am looking forward to internship.

In addition to my personal growth, I have committed to tutoring two MD1 First Nations students. This mentoring and support for fellow students allows me to contribute to the nurturing of future healthcare leaders, which both reinforces my own learning and fosters my mentoring skillset.

As I approach the end of my medical studies, I am deeply grateful for the experiences and opportunities I have been afforded. They have equipped me with essential skills and perspectives to navigate the complexities of healthcare. I eagerly anticipate carrying these lessons forward as I transition into the next phase of my medical journey, starting with my internship here in the NT.