Showcasing the rich diversity of NSW Health and celebrating Harmony Week! |
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Yesterday we marked Harmony Day and to keep the celebrations going throughout Harmony Week, this edition shares stories that highlight the abundant diversity of the people of NSW Health.
Here at the NSW Health building at St Leonards, we marked the day by coming together to share food, music, art and stories from our cultures. The day was a reminder of our commitment to our CORE values and striving for a workplace that is about inclusivity, respect, and where everyone truly belongs. I hope you had the chance to get involved and share stories of your background and culture that makes up our unique community, here at work and at home. |
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This week we are also celebrating World Social Work Day and Dietitians Week. I want to thank all our social workers and dietitians working hard across NSW Health every day. Your expertise enables us to deliver holistic specialist care that makes a real difference to the health of our patients.
Finally, I’d like to celebrate two staff members who were recognised in this year’s NSW Women of the Year Awards. Congratulations to Dr Rebecca Deans, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the Royal Hospital for Women, for winning the 2023 NSW Women of Excellence Award, and Dr Ashna Basu, Psychiatrist at Prince of Wales Hospital, who was a finalist in the NSW Young Women of the Year category.
Kind regards,
Susan Pearce AM
Secretary, NSW Health
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Ramadan is one of the most sacred months of the Islamic calendar. It is considered to be a journey of self-discovery where Muslims engage in prayer, fasting, reflection and charity for one month, to strengthen their relationship with God. Some colleagues have shared what they will be doing during this sacred month. |
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"For Suhoor (pre-dawn meal), we generally have a large, warm bowl of oatmeal cooked in milk with honey and dates. It’s high in fibre that helps keep blood sugar levels stable, keeps you full for a long time and prevents food cravings.
I usually have my obligatory cup of coffee afterwards and then a glass of water, before starting my day.
The first five to six days of fasting can be quite exhausting as the body adapts and one has to fight the urge to quench their thirst. One should spare a thought for those who observe the month of Ramadan during summer (where a fast can last over 14 hours – phew!).
When sunset approaches, we begin preparing for Iftar (breaking of the fast). Usually, this meal comprises of dates, rose-water drink, fritters, samosas, fruit-salads and other delicacies. Once that’s done and dusted, we go for our nightly prayers." Sayed Ahmed, Project Manager, HealthShare NSW |
| "I have many fond memories of Ramadan, especially of iftar, the meal that breaks the fast at sunset, shared with friends and family of diverse backgrounds and cultures. The warm and welcoming atmosphere and the aroma of delicious foods filling the air. I am always struck by the sense of togetherness and community present, the laughter and joy, the sharing of stories over hot meals. And who can forget the Ramadan night markets of Lakemba?!
The vibrant celebration of Islamic culture and heritage, drawing Muslims and non-Muslims alike. The sense of excitement and anticipation in the air as people gather to break their fast and enjoy the festivities.
In moments like this I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the blessings that we have been given and the opportunity to share this special time with others. It is a beautiful reminder of the power of community and the importance of coming together to break bread and share in the joys of life."
Waseem Allima, Senior Data Visualisation Designer, Bureau of Health Information |
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'At the CORE' of South Western Sydney |
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Our CORE values are at the heart of everything we do at NSW Health. At the CORE showcases the teams, initiatives, and achievements from around the system that display our values in action. |
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Empowerment: More than 2,500 refugees settle in South Western Sydney each year. Registered nurse, Soumaiya Amaan remembers what it was like to leave Afghanistan and eventually settle in Australia. “I was five when I left Afghanistan with my mum and younger sister. Growing up I saw a lot of people struggling and I remember being back in Afghanistan and just wanting to help everyone. That’s why I wanted to become a nurse,” said Soumaiya.
Soumaiya supports patients from refugee backgrounds through the Refugee Health Nurse Program, established by the NSW Refugee Health Service which is run by South Western Sydney Local Health District. The program empowers newly arrived refugees and asylum seekers by providing health assessments, referrals to health services and regular health checks.
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“A lot of patients are apprehensive at first as the health system can be quite complex and they’re not sure how to navigate the system given their limited knowledge or language barriers," said Soumaiya. “It’s been amazing getting to draw on my own experiences to help others find their way and show them how much better things can get.” Over the past decade, the program has provided clinical care and supported more than 20,000 refugees across NSW. The statewide service also empowers refugee communities by advocating for refugees in health policy and by delivering community information sessions on topics including oral health, nutrition and chronic diseases. |
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Name: Amanda Larkin
Role: Chief Executive, South Western Sydney Local Health District
Now, let’s get to know you a little better… What are three words your family and friends would use to describe you? Motivated, caring and committed. Last great TV show or movie you watched?
I must have seen “Top Gun” around 50 times. The movie is not only a lot of fun, it also shows the wonderful skills of elite fighter pilots, performing those stomach-turning moves at such an incredible speed. |
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Favourite book or podcast?
'To Kill a Mockingbird' is not only beautifully written, it’s also a powerful story that relays important messages about life. Atticus Finch tells his daughter, Scout, “you never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view...until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” I apply this to every aspect of my life, it’s important to always take the time to understand another’s perspective and experience.
If you could learn a new skill, what would it be?
I have a plan for my next career, as a florist. Flowers are so uplifting, they bring so much happiness. I imagine myself running a florist and homewares shop dedicated to flowers. If you’re cooking dinner, what will everyone be eating?
French food. I was inspired by visiting France, so French food and French champagne are always on the menu at my house. Here are a few bonus questions to recognise Harmony Week!
Where do you feel like you belong?
Belonging is so important to all of us. I feel like I belong when I am connected to colleagues, family, friends and community. I built my career and raised my family within the South West, so I very much feel like I belong here – but not just because of that history, it’s because South Western Sydney is a very special place. It is diverse in culture, geography, and backgrounds. Everyone can belong here.
Do you have any traditions? Can you share one? I enjoy spending time with family at celebrations that mark important occasions, like Christmas and christenings. What makes South Western Sydney Local Health District so special?
Our greatest strength is our vibrant and diverse community. Our district is home to people from across the world, from Traditional Owners to new arrivals. This wonderful diversity is reflected not only in our community but in our staff. It is ingrained throughout our organisation, ensuring we take the time to understand different perspectives and health needs, adjust our models of care and tailor our services.
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The big heart of social work |
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World Social Work Day was celebrated yesterday (21 March), with the theme ‘Respecting Diversity Through Joint Social Action’.
2022 Excellence in Allied Health Awards finalists, Maddison Williams and Professor Grahame Simpson, share their reflections about their roles and how they embrace cultural diversity. |
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“In school, I explored Aboriginal people and Aboriginal history. I loved learning more about my people and would come home to talk about my family’s experiences with my mother and grandmother. This motivated me to study social work where I could work with and for Aboriginal people, to improve their social and health outcomes. As a proud Wiradjuri woman, I am very passionate about working with Aboriginal children and families and ensuring I'm being culturally safe and responsive by engaging in clinical and cultural supervision. |
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I’m also privileged to work with individuals from various CALD backgrounds. As social workers, it’s important that we take time to consider and understand their ways of knowing, being and doing and strive to always deliver a culturally safe and respectful service which will improve the way they feel about accessing government healthcare settings.”
Maddison Williams, Senior Social Worker at the Nepean Blue Mountains Mudang Mudjin (Building Strong Foundations) and Wilingali (Aboriginal Maternal and Infant Health Service) teams. |
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"From a young age, I always had an interest in helping people. My position involves research and clinical leadership which is a very important part of social work. I’m able to collaborate with clinicians to develop and test the efficacy of innovative new approaches to rehabilitation, and then roll it out into everyday practice.
I work in one of the most culturally diverse regions of Australia. In research, we have a responsibility to engage with CALD communities. To do this, we ensure that research materials are translated, we use interpreters to discuss research projects with people who are considering participating and establish cross-cultural reference groups.” |
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Associate Professor Grahame Simpson, Social Worker and Clinical Research Lead, Liverpool Hospital Brain Injury Rehabilitation Unit, South Western Sydney Local Health District. |
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Everyone belongs at Murrumbidgee |
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Registered Nurse, Riche Ragutana, had never before travelled outside of the Philippines until relocating to Australia in 2016 to be closer to his sister.
After working and completing further studies in nursing in Melbourne, Riche swapped his busy city life for the quieter grassy hills of Gundagai to welcome his second niece.
“I loved living in Manila but it is a city of almost two million people so it can be very busy and crowded,” said Riche.
“I applied for a job at Gundagai Multipurpose Service and worked causally for a year before a permanent job came up at Cootamundra. I love working in Gundagai so much that when I saw Cootamundra needed a nurse, I knew I could help.” |
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| Riche is dedicated to both communities at Gundagai and Cootamundra and doesn’t mind the 45-minute travel to and from work. With one in four people at NSW Health speaking a language other than English, Riche is one of many people who form the cultural fabric of our organisation, helping local health districts like Murrumbidgee enhance the quality of services and care provided to diverse communities. Riche encourages everyone to recognise and embrace the benefits of working for a diverse organisation like NSW Health.
“The best thing is, you not just come to work, you build a family at work while also getting to learn a wider range of skills and develop a wider range of more meaningful experiences,” Riche said. |
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A dream career in rural NSW |
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Lesley Wood is on her fairy tale adventure of a lifetime. The enrolled nurse is traveling around regional and rural New South Wales as part of NSW Health’s deployment program. As an employee at Royal North Shore Hospital, Lesley has been posted all over the state, from the deserts to the dunes. Currently, Lesley is loving being a part of the Taree community at Manning Base Hospital.
Lesley says her time on deployments has given her a new lease on life.
We are currently looking for enrolled nurses, registered midwives and registered nurses to join the deployment program. Are you looking for your next career opportunity?
For more information contact MOH-WorkforceOperations@health.nsw.gov.au and continue reading Lesley’s story of how her deployment has turned into her dream career.
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Creating a place where everyone belongs |
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Staff throughout the Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD) are excited for the launch of the new NSLHD Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Strategy that outlines how they will create a workforce where everyone is equally represented, respected and feels like they belong.
To help achieve their vision, staff are being encouraged to join one (or all) of their five Employee Resource Networks. |
To recognise Harmony Week, NSLHD Executive Lead for the CALD Employee Network, Gilbert Lorquet, explains the Network's potential.
“The Network is looking at how to use our diversity to build respect, build engagement and bridge the gap for CALD people,” said Gilbert. “The ultimate goal is to ensure all CALD people have a voice.” “It can be as simple as making sure to pronounce someone’s name correctly. By creating space for staff to disclose if they are of a CALD background, there’s greater opportunity to build connections and a sense of belonging,” said Gilbert. |
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“One area that we identified in a recent employee survey was the need for more CALD staff members in leadership roles. The Network has a big focus on supporting current and future CALD staff to have the confidence and tools to apply and be successful in senior positions.”
There are many exciting opportunities ahead for the CALD Employee Network with the new Strategy launching in late April. |
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How this dietitian is improving lives |
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Clinical dietitian Maddi Breen loves helping patients and their families improve and maintain their nutrition at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in the Sydney Local Health District.
“It’s very rewarding. I get to challenge myself every day with new clinical areas and complex patients who present to hospital. I get to practice patient and family-centred care daily to better the lives of our patients,” said Maddi.
Maddi wanted to be a dietitian since she was thirteen years old. Her dedication shines through in her work and she was a finalist in the 2022 Excellence in Allied Health Awards. |
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During Dietitians Week (20 – 26 March), practicing dietitians like Maddi are sharing how their work improves lives.
“As a dietitian, my aim is to improve quality of life, longevity of life, improve postoperative outcomes and prevent complications, help to prevent emergency presentations and ensure that all patients enjoy food and nutrition,” said Maddi.
Maddi’s striving to enhance her skills and knowledge, with the help of colleagues, professional development opportunities, research and quality improvement projects, all of which will advance her understanding of diseases, health and new treatments to ensure she continues to make a difference. |
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Embracing diversity through language |
Maura Tavasci’s first language is Italian however, growing up in Switzerland and living in Africa, she can also speak French and English.
“Interpreting allows me to have a positive impact on people’s health and wellbeing and gives me the opportunity to maintain a connection with my culture through language,” said Maura.
Maura has been an Italian and French interpreter and translator in the Hunter New England Local Health District since 2008.
“At present, I’m working with more older patients with failing heart and kidney function, cancer, dementia or mental health issues. It’s important that I approach these situations with empathy and respect as they may need extra support and understanding of their declining abilities,” said Maura. |
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| Working with CALD communities, Maura is often providing her services to new mothers during childbirth, postpartum and perinatal care, tourists holidaying in Australia, and refugees. “Interpreting in healthcare is indeed a rewarding and gratifying experience. I get to work with people that have migrated from all parts of the world to make Australia their home – an experience that I also share,” said Maura.
“When working with patients from refugee backgrounds, it’s important to be culturally sensitive as many have experienced or are coming from trauma.”
Providing clear and accurate interpretation helps CALD patients have a better understanding of their medical condition, treatments, costs and supports them to make informed decisions about their care. |
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Sharing a wealth of knowledge |
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For newly arrived migrants and refugees who come to settle in the Northern Rivers, accessing health services is not always straightforward. That’s where Rita Youssef-Price comes in, providing health information to people attending Adult Migrant English classes at TAFE.
Rita is the Northern NSW Local Health District Multicultural Strategies Coordinator, and she has a wealth of knowledge about accessing the various types of health care new arrivals might need.
Rita fields questions about everything from dentists to maternity services, GPs and telehealth services, emergency departments and ambulances, child and family support, trauma counselling and of course, using interpreters.
“Presenting information about our complex health system can be tricky, especially when there are communication obstacles,” said Rita. “I always highlight the importance of using interpreters for complex health conversations where safety and understanding are critical.” |
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Through her work, Rita has seen students now participating in health services and community activities, as well as connecting to community supports to reduce their isolation. “It’s such a simple collaboration, but it’s been incredibly successful as a way to engage with some of our most vulnerable local multicultural community members,” said Rita.
“Students are better able to access the support they need to improve their overall health and address chronic and untreated health conditions.” |
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Rita with Wollongbar TAFE English Language students |
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Advance care planning at Justice Health NSW | |
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A strong display of collaboration can be seen in the advance care planning that takes place at Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network (Justice Health NSW). Kathryn Lynch, Transitional Nurse Practitioner at Justice Health NSW, says that advance care planning is discussed with each person added to their palliative care list. “Every person is different and has their own challenges, but at the end of the day we are their best advocates for ensuring they receive the support and care they need – both now and into the future,” said Kathryn.
Often Kathryn is collaborating with Aboriginal health workers like Natalie Bell, Aboriginal Health Manager – Integrated Care Services, Aboriginal Chronic Care Program (State), to ensure an individual’s cultural needs are met. |
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Justice Health NSW staff helping a patient at Long Bay Hospital |
| “I support the individual by explaining terminology, relaying information in a way they’ll understand and helping to create a culturally safe environment, so they feel comfortable to speak to our nurses,” said Natalie. This week is National Advance Care Planning Week (20-26 March), where everyone is encouraged to make their future health care preferences known in the instance they can no longer communicate or make their own health care decisions.
Our End of Life and Palliative Care Framework 2019-2024 guides changes in our health system to deliver services and support that are culturally safe and responsive to the unique needs of people in NSW. |
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Sustainable Futures Innovation Fund recipients announced
Congratulations to the NSW Health Sustainable Futures Innovation Fund recipients.
As part of the Future Health Strategic Framework, NSW Health is committed to an environmentally sustainable footprint. There were almost 80 submissions received, with 17 projects across the System receiving funding. |
| Addressing workplace grievances
The NSW Ministry of Health has launched a new portal to support staff in addressing workplace grievances and concerns when they arise.
The intranet site aims to empower all staff to resolve workplace grievances and concerns as early as possible, in an open manner and with a willingness to explore and enact solutions collaboratively with their colleagues.
More information is available on the Addressing grievances and concerns portal. |
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We acknowledge the Aboriginal traditional custodians of the land in which we live and work and pay respects to all Elders past, present and emerging. We also acknowledge all the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff working with the NSW Government. |
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