Yaama (hello), My name is Nicholas Tedim. I am a proud Gamilaraay man from Walgett, NSW, studying a Bachelor of Paramedicine at Charles Sturt University. My ambition to pursue paramedical studies previously originates from my time spent working in emergency service as a retained firefighter with Fire & Rescue NSW, I have a deep admiration for community service and the healthcare of First Nations peoples within rural and remote communities in which I intend to work upon graduation.

Throughout my studies, I have demonstrated a strong commitment to understanding the healthcare challenges faced by these communities, with a particular focus on healthcare demographics and sociological issues of healthcare disparities in rural and remote NSW. My academic efforts in these subjects have stood out, reflecting my dedication to making a meaningful impact in improving health outcomes for First Nations populations.

As a paramedicine student at Charles Sturt University, my ultimate goal is to provide comprehensive and culturally sensitive care to those in need, both within my local community of Walgett and across broader contexts. I am driven by a profound sense of pride that is deeply rooted in my Indigenous heritage, continuing the legacy of the ancestral wirrigans (clever men/women), which helps me overcome the challenges of studying.

Upon successful completion of my studies, I aspire to join the NSW Ambulance Service, working towards achieving the clinical level of intensive care paramedic, with the commitment to returning to Walgett, where I will dedicate myself to paramedic duties in the pre-hospital environment and contribute to the well-being of the community.

My commitment extends beyond individual care, encompassing community engagement and mentoring, particularly encouraging the local youth to pursue healthcare education and employment. Collaborating with local elders and healthcare providers, I aim to participate with local medical services to develop culturally sensitive healthcare programs and advocate for improved healthcare policies for First Nations populations within the community, in turn helping to close the gap within healthcare.

This semester proved to be my busiest so far with a total of 3 subjects and a placement subject earlier in the year during February, this is well away from my norm of only completing 2 subjects per semester. The reason I have an additional subject in each semester this year is because I have decided to lighten up the study load for my final year next year as a result of this I have taken the second subject from each semester next year and added it into this year, this was a big decision I have made as I could potentially be joining NSW Ambulance early next year for their 2026 graduate internship which my application has been so far successful and have since been placed on their merit list for the 2026 intake. I am extremely excited about this as it has been quite a long journey of study over these past three years, and I am eager to finally join the job and begin practicing on-road as a trainee paramedic.

Attending three consecutive weeks of residential programs on campus at Charles Sturt University in Bathurst holds a special significance for me as a Gamilaraay man. Each time I step onto Wiradjuri land, I feel a powerful sense of connection and respect. Being welcomed onto Wiradjuri Country to learn, grow, and improve myself is not just a privilege, it is an honour that I hold close to heart.

I am also proud to share that I achieved my highest academic mark this semester, a High Distinction in one of the most challenging subjects I have undertaken so far.  The ongoing support and sponsorship have played a pivotal role in helping me reach this milestone. Studying via distance education online can sometimes feel isolating, but knowing I have the backing of the Rotary community has been both reassuring and motivating. Without your support, achievements like this would be much harder to attain.