Scholarship recipient sets the bar high leading by example

7 Jun 2023

Rochelle is using the Sister Bridget Clancy Scholarship for the Empowerment of Women through Education to study a Graduate Certificate in Health Management at Murdoch University.

“The scholarship is giving me the opportunity to be able to build on my leadership and management skills to ensure that I’m not only leading my own team in the most effective way, but I can share what I have learnt with others that are looking at a leadership or management role,” she said.

“It is giving me the opportunity to invest in my own professional development and access to future opportunities.”

The scholarship, which was first offered in 2021 in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Sister's foundation, seeks to continue the legacy of the visionary and courageous women who founded St John of God Health Care in Australia.

The scholarship was open to female caregivers undertaking studies focused on leadership development or related to women's health.

Rochelle’s journey with St John of God Health Care started 18 years ago at St John of God Subiaco Hospital as a Student Midwife, with her passion and involvement for health education growing over the years.

“What makes me so passionate about education is leading others to their ‘light bulb moment’, when you can see all the information and skills you are teaching a person fall into place. You can almost always see their face light up and an Educator, this is what makes all the hard work worthwhile,” she said.

“I have always been an advocate for ongoing professional development. However, the biggest driver for me is the role model I’m trying to be for my own children, especially my daughter.

“I hope I’m showing her the opportunities that are out there and it is more than possible to have a family, work, and study without compromising her passion or career ambitions.”

Rochelle said that she would love to encourage anyone to take up any opportunity to further develop themselves, no matter how big or small.

“Healthcare is such a unique profession in regards to growing and establishing yourself.

“I started my career in a tiny country hospital in Victoria, and to be given the opportunity to lead a team in a hospital this size on the other side of the country has been the most rewarding experience, and it can only get better.”

She said the most rewarding part about working at St John of God Murdoch Hospital is the people she has met and worked with.

“I love that you feel like you have your own community also cheering you on to succeed, it’s almost like having a second home to go to.”