Tell us a little about yourself, Jacob?
I am from Brisbane, and graduated from the Australian Catholic University as a registered nurse. I have had my sight set on working within the international aid sector for some years, with a specific organisation. Before becoming a registered nurse, I worked as a bartender in a nightclub and as a caregiver in a residential aged care facility.
My hobbies include hanging out with my dog and baking. My strong passion for equal access to healthcare for every person regardless of their background aligns with my nursing career. I believe that every person should have access to high quality healthcare that is safely delivered.
Why did you want to become a nurse?
I have always wanted to work in healthcare, I find it rewarding being able to support people in their most vulnerable states. I also sought a career that is versatile and can take me to places that many other careers can’t. That’s why I chose to become a nurse.
How did you first hear about MSF, and what drew you to work abroad?
I think I first learnt about MSF during my research when I was looking at working within the humanitarian world. I looked at many different organisations, but for me, it was MSF that resonated the most, as I feel strongly about their principles being that their actions are guided by medical ethics, they’re independent, impartial, and neutral, they bear witness and have strong accountability. Additionally, MSF is often one of, if not the first international humanitarian organisations on the ground to respond and to deliver medical aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, natural disasters and exclusion from healthcare.
The decision to work abroad was made even easier when reflecting on the Australian healthcare system. We see that it is advanced and well established, whereas in other countries, people are not as fortunate as us. I’ve seen firsthand what it means to have restricted access or be excluded from healthcare. Being able to go abroad to support projects meant that I am part of a network that offers safe, comprehensive, high-quality healthcare and impartial healthcare.