At just 14 years old, Anshi Mowleeson is already gaining first-hand experience in healthcare through volunteering at Mackay Base Hospital and helping shape her future career ambitions along the way.
The Year 10 Catherine McAuley College student recently completed 15 weeks of volunteering with the Mackay Hospital Foundation as part of her Duke of Edinburgh Award, dedicating one morning each week before school to supporting staff, patients and fellow volunteers.
Anshi has embraced a variety of tasks across the hospital, from restocking books and managing the shopping trolley service to collecting wheelchairs and helping volunteers across different wards and departments. She also spent some of her Easter school holidays at the hospital.
Volunteering offered her more than just practical skills; it also gave her valuable insight into the many roles that make a hospital run and a better understanding of the health system before committing to a future medical career.
“It’s been a lot of fun and everyone has been very kind,” Anshi said.
“It’s given me a really good experience of the hospital and healthcare industry and has cemented my decision to study medicine.”
Her interest in medicine comes naturally. Both of her parents are doctors, and conversations at home have sparked a particular fascination with neurology.
Anshi’s father, Dr Mowleeson Navaratnam, is a Senior House Officer in Emergency at Mackay Base Hospital.
Her mother is also a doctor and is currently preparing to practise as a GP in Australia.
The family moved to Australia from Sri Lanka three and a half years ago, with the past two and a half years spent in Mackay.
Anshi considering future study options in Brisbane or Sydney after finishing school, Anshi said neurology remains an area of strong interest.
“I’ve always been interested in hearing my parents talk about their work and learning about how medicine can make such a difference in people’s lives,” she said.
Dr Navaratnam said he was proud to see his daughter embracing opportunities to learn and contribute.
“It’s been an enriching experience for her to volunteer and gain exposure to healthcare,” he said.
Volunteer coordinator Brenda McFadzen from My Hospital Foundation said Anshi had become a valued member of the volunteer team.
“It’s been wonderful to have such a young person involved,” Ms McFadzen said.
“Anshi has contributed in so many ways and brought great energy to the volunteer team.”
As a gesture of appreciation on her final day of the program, Anshi surprised Brenda and her volunteer colleagues with small gifts.
Her volunteering journey is not over yet, with plans to continue supporting the foundation at upcoming events including Dinner on the Runway.
Anshi said she would definitely encourage other young people to consider volunteering at the hospital.
“It can work around school and it’s a great way to learn new things, meet people and get experience while giving back to the community.”