Nursing is a career driven by compassion, resilience, and the desire to make a difference in people’s lives. While traditionally viewed as a female-dominated field, more men are now entering the profession and carving out successful careers that challenge outdated stereotypes. One such person is Antony Ngari, a dedicated travel nurse whose passion for helping others has paved the way for a rewarding and flexible career.
Antony sat down with Healthcare Australia (HCA) to share his experiences, motivations, and why he believes nursing is a career anyone can pursue, regardless of gender.
Inspired by a Strong Role Model
Antony traces his inspiration for becoming a nurse back to his childhood. His aunt, whom he describes as a strong and compassionate woman, played a pivotal role in shaping his perspective on the profession. “She used to tell me that being a man is no excuse not to be a nurse,” he recalls.
Encouraged by her advice, Antony pursued a career in nursing, starting in orthopaedics and geriatrics. Looking for new challenges and flexibility, he made the leap to travel nursing in 2012, working with HCA in Perth. Since then, Antony has flourished in his role, blending professional development with personal growth.
Why Travel Nursing?
For Antony, the decision to transition from a permanent role to agency nursing came after receiving valuable advice from his Australian tutor. “My tutor explained that you can spend years gaining experience in one ward and continue repeating the same routines, or you can choose agency nursing and challenge yourself with something new every year,” Antony says.
Travel nursing provides the flexibility Antony needs to balance multiple responsibilities. Outside of his shifts, he serves as a local minister and is deeply involved in his church community. “The freedom to choose my shifts makes it possible for me to pursue both my passions,” he explains.
Impacting Lives
Antony also credits travel nursing for its financial benefits, which have enabled him to provide specialised care for his adopted daughter, who is deaf. “The competitive pay rates and ability to take on additional shifts allow me to afford her speech therapy and ensure she receives the care she needs,” he says proudly.
His story is a testament to the profession’s ability to not only build meaningful careers but also create positive change in personal lives and communities.
Adapting and Thriving in Australia
For international nurses like Antony, the path to starting a career in Australia comes with its challenges, particularly the AHPRA registration process. Antony describes completing his conversion course in Australia as one of his proudest achievements. “The reward of gaining my AHPRA registration made all the effort worthwhile,” he says.
HCA played a crucial role in supporting Antony through the process, from visa applications to securing his registration and employment. “HCA listens before they speak, and that kind of support is invaluable,” Antony adds.
He encourages international nurses considering the move to start their AHPRA application early and follow up regularly. “Sometimes things get lost in communication. Always pick up the phone to ask questions and clarify what’s required,” he advises.
Breaking Stereotypes in the Nursing Profession
Antony is a passionate advocate for breaking down gender stereotypes in nursing. Historically viewed as a career for women, antiquated perceptions often deter men from exploring nursing as a viable profession. But Antony challenges that narrative.
“To me, nursing is about your passion and drive to help others,” he says. “It has nothing to do with gender.”
Antony’s perspective is echoed by many male nurses who value the diverse opportunities the field provides, from acute care to travel nursing, leadership roles, and beyond.
Celebrating Success
One of the highlights of Antony’s career was receiving a new car as a prize from HCA. At the time, he was driving an ageing vehicle and greatly appreciated the upgrade. “Winning the car was such a surprise! It’s these moments that remind me why I chose to partner with HCA,” he smiles.
Advice for Aspiring Travel Nurses
Antony’s nursing journey offers invaluable advice for those considering travel nursing in Australia:
- Take the Leap: Don’t be discouraged by outdated stereotypes. Nursing is a versatile and rewarding career for anyone with a passion for care.
- Challenge Yourself: Explore agency nursing to experience diverse work environments and grow your skills.
- Leverage Flexibility: Whether you’re balancing other responsibilities or pursuing personal passions, travel nursing allows you to tailor your schedule.
- Start Early: Begin the AHPRA registration process sooner rather than later and don’t hesitate to seek guidance.
- Find the Right Support: Work with a trusted agency like HCA to make the transition smoother and expand your professional opportunities.
Why Choose HCA?
With over 1,500 travel nursing shifts available daily across Australia, HCA is a leading healthcare recruitment agency known for its flexibility, support, and opportunities to grow. Whether you’re transitioning to agency work or considering a move from overseas, HCA ensures you have the tools and resources needed to succeed.
If Antony’s story resonates with you and you’re ready to explore the flexibility and fulfilment of travel nursing, HCA is here to guide you every step of the way.
Join Australia’s leading healthcare recruitment agency. Register your interest today and start your nursing adventure with HCA.
