26 February 2024
International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder of the remarkable contributions women make around the world. Here at Estia Health we see them firsthand every day. This year we wanted to go beyond celebrating and delve deeper.
We asked four of our inspiring team members what this day means to them at their work and experience at Estia Health. Get ready to be inspired by Mandy's story.
Amanda ‘Mandy’, Enrolled Nurse - Estia Health Melton South
Backing Ourselves And Each Other
Amanda ‘Mandy’, Enrolled Nurse (EN) at Estia Health Melton South shares her inspiring journey on the occasion of International Women's Day.
What does that mean to you?
It’s about women empowerment. Helping them to upskill and achieve personal goals in the workplace. Having an empathetic leader creates a space for women to feel supported and safe to be themselves.
How has Estia Health supported your progress?
I started work at Estia Health as a Personal Care Attendant (PCA). After completing further studies and have worked as an Enrolled Nurse (EN) for about 10 years.
After a hand injury which required surgery, I was supported to perform light duties in an Infection Prevention Control (IPC) role, whilst I recovered. I enjoyed the focus on compliance and implementing positive change and was eventually offered a permanent IPC Lead position.
I had been working as an EN on the floor for 5-6 years in the home’s Memory Support Unit. When an Australian National Aged Care Classification (AN-ACC) Lead role became available, I put my hand up for the opportunity. I’m a natural auditor, so I’m really enjoying the role.
I had always considered studying to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and had applied a few times but finding the balance between personal and work requirements was a challenge. I am now part of the Estia Health RN Scholarship program. I’m nervous to be a ‘grad’ again but excited to get started.
What is your favourite part of being a woman and a woman working at Estia Health?
Our strength and determination – we are mentally tough!
When I reflect on how Estia Health supports women, I think about ‘White Ribbon Day’ last year. Our team came together to acknowledge what the day represented. Flowers were displayed, a moment of silence was observed, and women shared stories about their experiences with family and domestic violence.
The way the organisation got behind the event was a reminder that the team could be there for each other, and it beautifully represented the organisation’s family code. It was a moving experience for the team and one in life I will never forget.
How has your experience as a woman changed during your life?
Everyone is respected and treated equal at work but as I have been supported to develop my knowledge, I have felt more and more valued and appreciated.
Read more stories of inspiring women at Estia Health
Foram, Regional Aged Care Manager
