From Zimbabwe to Mitcham for Nurse, Silence
The career of Resthaven Mitcham Clinical Nurse, Silence Matanhire, has progressed in leaps and bounds since she emigrated from Zimbabwe in 2005.
‘I came to Australia as a Registered Nurse,’ says Silence, who applied and was successful under the nursing shortage Visa scheme of the time. She was sponsored via the scheme through the Uniting Church.
‘I was originally supposed to go to Sydney, but ended up in Adelaide at Resthaven Mitcham.’
‘This was a blessing, as Adelaide is a laid back town where you can raise your family without the hassles of a big city,’ she says.
‘I started with buddy shifts to get me used to Australian standards, but after four weeks, I was ready to work on my own.’
‘My favourite thing about working for Resthaven is the opportunities and support I got from the day I arrived in Australia until now.’
‘Resthaven took over my Visa sponsorship in 2008, and I am so grateful.’
‘They did everything for me and my family, and I got my Visa without any problems.’
‘They kept on assisting me to settle, and I have met so many lovely people who are still in my life as friends.’
‘Resthaven is very family orientated – I am overwhelmed by the support I receive.’
In 2015, Silence celebrated her ten year milestone with Resthaven at the annual Staff Appreciation Awards. ‘I like the recognition that Resthaven provides for long serving staff,’ she says.
In 2017, she applied for the Clinical Nurse role at Resthaven Mitcham, and was successful.
‘My Manager and our site Care Coordinator were instrumental in my becoming the Clinical Nurse at Resthaven Mitcham,’ she says.
‘They had faith in me, and encouraged me to apply for the job.’
‘It’s a challenging position, but very rewarding.’
‘I am grateful to have been given this opportunity by Resthaven to progress my career.’
Other professional development opportunities which Silence has undertaken through Resthaven include Chief Fire Warden training, management of Diabetes training, RN Development Days, and participating in the ‘Leadership Capability Development Program – Nurse in Charge.’
‘The Leadership Capability training in particular was amazing,’ says Silence.
‘It gave me more confidence and knowledge in how to manage staff, and the responsibilities of my role.’
‘I can’t believe it’s been 12 years now since I came to Resthaven – how time flies!’
‘I look forward to continuing to work for Resthaven, and enjoying the opportunities that come my way.’