Lisa Stubbs

As part of her Nursing degree, Lisa took part in the Work the World programme and undertook a placement in Tanzania.

My experience in Tanzania as a student nurse was truly unforgettable and incredibly rewarding. Throughout my journey, I had the opportunity to meet many kind, welcoming and inspiring people, which made the experience feel like a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Working and volunteering abroad had always been something I had wanted to do. Being able to combine this personal ambition with my nursing education made the experience particularly meaningful to me.

Gained valuable experience in varied nursing activities

The clinical placements were highly educational and provided me with opportunities to develop my knowledge, skills and confidence. I gained experience in a wide range of nursing activities and had the opportunity to work alongside healthcare professionals in different areas of the hospitals.

Some of the most memorable aspects of my placement was being able to observe several surgeries and witness a baby being delivered. These experiences provided valuable insight into different areas of nursing. It let me observe procedures that I had not previously encountered.

Developed a deeper understanding of healthcare in different cultural and clinical environments

During the placement I developed a deeper appreciation of the role that culture, beliefs and social circumstances can play in healthcare. I saw the impact that limited resources can have on the delivery of healthcare and the importance of adapting nursing care to meet the needs of individual patients and communities. My experience highlighted the importance of providing holistic care and recognising the emotional and social needs of both patients and their families alongside their medical care.

Observing the challenges faced by local communities encouraged me to reflect on the differences between healthcare systems and the factors that influence the quality and accessibility of care.

Loved exploring Tanzania

During my free time, I had the opportunity to explore different areas of Tanzania. It gave me greater understanding of local communities and their ways of life. I took part in activities such as weaving and cooking classes to learn about traditional skills and customs.

One of the highlights of my trip was visiting Mikumi National Park for a safari. This was an incredible experience and unlike anything I had experienced before. I also had the opportunity to meet members of the Maasai community during my travels. These experiences allowed me to broaden my cultural awareness and develop a deeper appreciation for the diversity of communities and traditions within Tanzania.

Strengthened appreciation of nursing profession

Overall, my experience in Tanzania broadened my perspective as a student nurse. It strengthened my appreciation of the nursing profession and helped me recognise the importance of compassionate, culturally sensitive and adaptable care across different healthcare settings.