As a trained nurse in his home country of Egypt, Mr Elwakil was eager to learn the differences in the health system in Australia.

“I really like the program and have learned a lot of new skills. In Australia, there is a lot more modern technology, which is the biggest difference,” Mr Elwakil said.

Calvary’s Refugee Mentoring Program is a community initiative designed to provide individuals from refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds valuable work experience in an Australian workplace.

Calvary John James Hospital General Manager, Daniel Wood, said the program aimed to help participants identify their career goals and explore educational opportunities.

“This program provides a variety of opportunities across Calvary, with placements at all of our Canberra sites,” Mr Wood said.

“Over three months, participants gain valuable experience, receive a certificate of completion and two references to support future employment. It also helps them build meaningful community connections and a greater sense of belonging.”

The participants have been completing placements in nursing, education, allied health, hospitality, care in the community, and administration across our Calvary John James and Calvary Bruce Private Hospitals, as well as Calvary Home Care. The second intake of participants will be able to experience Calvary Haydon Aged Care.

Mr Elwakil most enjoyed his time at Calvary Bruce Private Hospital, assisting staff in the Hyson Green mental health unit.

“I liked helping the nursing staff when they needed and really valued the time I spent talking to the mental health consumers at Hyson Green,” Mr Elwakil said.

This week, Mr Elwakil was supported and successful in applying for an Assistant in Nursing role at Calvary Bruce Private Hospital. He will begin his role in the Surgical and Medical Department in coming weeks.

The program is part of Calvary’s commitment to delivering and growing sustainable healthcare and supports diversity, equity and inclusion as part of our broader commitment to ESG (environmental, social and governances) principles underpinned by the Spirit of Calvary.