Healthcare Hero

At Southern Cross Healthcare, we believe that when people are supported to grow, they thrive — and so does the care we deliver. Barbara’s inspiring journey in healthcare is a powerful example of what is possible when we invest behind talented and passionate people.

After immigrating to New Zealand in 2004 and raising three children, Barbara was searching for a people-focused profession where she could make a meaningful difference. Originally from Zimbabwe, Barbara had previously taught high school geography, English, and art, and with a family full of nurses and teachers, nursing felt like a natural next step.

As an adult student, Barbara graduated with a nursing degree from Manukau Institute of Technology in 2016, the same year Southern Cross Healthcare launched its Nurse Entry To Practice (NETP) programme. Drawn to the organisation’s values, Barbara chose Southern Cross as her preferred placement and was delighted to begin her career at Southern Cross Brightside Hospital, where she’s been steadily advancing ever since.

In the following years, Barbara has progressed from Registered Nurse to Clinical Nurse Lead, supported by tailored learning opportunities, leadership programmes, and hospital educators who helped shape her growth. She was also sponsored by Southern Cross Healthcare to complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing, further strengthening her clinical expertise and confidence.

With encouragement and mentorship from her General Manager, who recognised her leadership potential, Barbara stepped into her “dream job” as Patient Services Manager in 2023. In this role, Barbara brings her commitment to both excellence in care and team development: “As a manager I have a passion for ensuring efficient service deliver and maintaining patient-centred care. I seek to drive a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and ongoing professional development within the ward team.”

Barbara’s leadership is also measurable. Southern Cross Brightside Hospital recently achieved no corrective actions or recommendations at a recent Ministry of Health surveillance audit, with the ward being commended for its high standards of care and the positive culture observed during the audit. This achievement speaks volumes about Barbara’s steady leadership and the meaningful support she provides to her team.

Barbara is currently pursuing postgraduate study in nursing leadership through the University of Auckland, another example of her dedication to both personal and professional growth.

She credits Southern Cross Healthcare with fostering a culture that truly values its nurses, not just through career progression and funded education, but through ongoing support, mentorship, and moments of recognition like International Nurses Day.

Thank you, Barbara, for everything you bring to your team, our organisation, and the people we care for.