Romi participated in the Night Run to Honour Nurses in Cape Town in 2021 and 2022. She was the 1st Lady over the finish line in 2021, and placed 2nd at the 2022 race. Sr.Teresa Basson, the Director of TEN Campaign, congratulated all the race winners, and was particularly impressed by this energetic young nurse. Romi’s personal discipline, professionalism, dedication, and humility shines through her smile, which motivated us to invite her to tell her story. Being a nurse is who she is. Romi wants to make a difference in people’s lives, especially those patients needing critical care.
We now have the honour of sharing more about this exceptional ICU nurse.
What made you chose nursing as a career?
I think nursing chose me! I actually wanted to become a vet or work somewhere in the medical field. I took a chance and called Kovsie’s nursing department even though the annual applications had already closed. I enquired if there was a chance I could still do nursing and they confirmed that I could!
Where did you train?
University of the Free State (2012 – 2015)
Have you pursued any further qualifications after graduating as a professional nurse?
Yes, I obtained my Honours and Critical Care Diploma at the University of Stellenbosch.
What do you find the most challenging?
I find it hard and sad that nurses are so undervalued in South Africa. Another personal challenge for me is the fact that we are often under-staffed at work, even in the private sector.
What do you love about your career?
I love making a real difference, saving people’s lives! I enjoy giving holistic care and being part of a multifunctional team. I especially enjoy working with critical care patients.
What for you are the important qualities of an exceptional nurse?
Being there for your patients in all facets, while they are in hospital. It is so important to care for each one in the way that you would like to be cared for.
Do you have a particular philosophy or faith conviction that impacts the way you live?
For me personally, it is important to always give of my best, treating my patients in a very caring manner.
What advice would you give a young person hoping to pursue a career in nursing?
The pathway to become a professional nurse is not always an easy one. I will say, just keep going during your studies. Nursing is a dynamic career where you will have plenty of opportunities to find your specific area of passion.
How do you hope to make a difference through your career?
I would like to inspire my colleagues, and society as a whole, by working hard and being committed to good ethics in nursing. I hope to uplift nursing as a career, especially in South Africa, where people don’t always take nurses very seriously.
