My IMH career journey began in 1987 when IMH was known as Woodbridge Hospital. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities it provided, fostering both my personal and professional growth. My professional development included a pursuit of higher learning and a one-year secondment to the Ministry of Health. This journey saw my progression from Staff Nurse to Deputy Director of Nursing. I feel privileged to have worked alongside like-minded individuals in a team-oriented culture that promoted mutual learning, support, and the achievement of shared objectives. I find deep fulfillment in work that makes a tangible difference, knowing my contributions have a positive impact is profoundly rewarding. IMH is a workplace that values and acknowledges individual efforts, boosting morale and encouraging continuous improvement in the pursuit of excellence.

As a Nurse Clinician, I advocate for my colleagues. I initiate regular check-ins with my staff to discuss workload and emotional well-being, which not only improves morale but also enhances our overall patient care. These experiences have taught me that leadership in nursing is not just about directing others, but also empowering the entire team to work together towards a common goal of providing exceptional care.

IMH offers various learning opportunities, including courses, workshops, in-service presentations, simulated training, and attachments, to help nurses grow in the knowledge, skills, and compassion, ensuring quality care for clients with mental illness. These professional development opportunities have inspired me to become an educator. I believe in “Educating hearts to heal minds” – nursing is about making a meaningful impact on the lives of those we care for. As I continue this journey, I’m passionate about guiding the next generation of mental health nurses by creating impactful learning experiences and exploring innovative teaching methods.

Leading our budding Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) Unit, I focus on strategic planning and setting directions for nursing research and EBP, aligning with our nursing and organisational needs. I lead a core committee to drive research governance, build research culture and develop nurses' research capabilities. Collaborating with healthcare professionals, our priority is to address practice challenges through innovative research and evidence translation. Establishing mentorship programmes, we’re helping nurses grow into confident researchers. These roles combine my passion for nursing, education, and research, contributing to the future of nursing practice at IMH in an exciting, fulfilling journey.

As an Advanced Practice Nurse in a psychiatric rehabilitation ward, I am inspired daily by the resilience of my patients. My role involves fostering connections that empower individuals to believe in their potential and supporting them through their recovery journeys. Collaborating with a dedicated multidisciplinary team, we create personalised care plans that promote holistic healing. Witnessing patients transition from isolation to confidence is incredibly rewarding and motivates me to advocate for mental health awareness. Ultimately, my work is not just a career but a profound journey of hope and transformation, allowing me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve.

As I reflect on my journey as an IMH nurse, I am filled with a sense of purpose and fulfilment. When I was a student nurse, I had always been fascinated by the complexities of the human mind and the importance of mental health. My interest in this field only grew stronger with time, and I knew tha​t I had to pursue a career that would allow me to make a positive impact on people's lives.

Choosing to become a nurse at IMH has been the best decision I have ever made. Not only has it given me the opportunity to work with a talented team of professionals who share my passion for mental health, but it has also allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of the complexities of mental illness and the importance of compassionate care.

I am grateful for the opportunity to work with the Mobile Crisis Team, where I am constantly learning and growing as a Community Psychiatric Nurse. I am proud to be part of a team that is dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to our patients in the community, and I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.​

As an Enrolled Nurse in IMH Stepping Stones, I play a vital role in transforming lives by supporting patients on their journey to mental health recovery. Working in a rehabilitation ward is profoundly rewarding, as it allows me to build meaningful connections, inspire hope, and witness remarkable progress as patients regain their confidence and independence. With a supportive team and opportunities for both personal and professional growth, Stepping Stones​ offers a unique environment where I can make a lasting impact. Each day brings opportunities to foster positivity, create joy at work, and contribute to a compassionate, purpose-driven space dedicated to mental health recovery.