Nunumai village, nestled in the remote region between the borders of Central and Milne Bay Province is known for its close-knit community and breathtaking natural beauty. It’s also home to a young man who has dedicated his life to serving others and making a difference in his community – Nurse Issac Mouni.
Growing up in a large family of seven siblings, Issac learned the importance of looking out for each other. “I learned the value of human connection. Witnessing the lack of healthcare services in my remote village motivated me to pursue a career in nursing to help those in need.”
In 2017, Issac enrolled in the St Barnabas School of Nursing in Milne Bay Province. The cost of tuition fees was a significant burden for his family. Fortunately, he was awarded the Australia Awards scholarship, which provided him with the opportunity to pursue his nursing diploma. “The scholarship was a blessing for me and my family. It lifted the financial burden and allowed me to focus on my studies.”
In 2019, Isaac began his career as a nursing officer at the Port Moresby General Hospital, where he was assigned to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). “Working at the ICU is no easy task. I must be proactive, sharp, and quick on my feet, as we often received patients who are victims of snake bites,” says Issac. “This is a common occurrence in the tropical savannah grasslands of my district.”
“The most rewarding part of my job is seeing patients recover and witnessing the joy and relief of their families,” Issac says with pride.
Despite being a male nurse in a profession often seen as traditional for women, Issac is proud to break stereotypes and serve his community with compassion and excellence. “Nursing is not just a profession for women, it’s a profession for all,” says Issac. “I want to make a difference in the lives of my patients, regardless of their background,” says Issac with empathy.
Looking to the future, Issac has set his sights on furthering his education in nursing. He aspires to attain a bachelor’s or even a master’s degree in nursing, and even dreams of obtaining a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.
Beyond his personal aspirations, Issac also has hopes for the health sector in PNG. He believes in the National Health Plan and hopes to see it achieve its objectives. “I want to ensure that quality healthcare is accessible to all Papua New Guineans, regardless of their location or socio-economic status,” he says with optimism.