Papua New Guinea
Australia Awards alumni and nurse, Steven Anthony is tackling tuberculosis (TB) at the community level.
Taking on parental responsibilities at a young age back in Pepekene village in Morobe Province, Steven saw firsthand community members die from this curable disease. This inspired Steven to become a nurse.
Turning his aspiration into reality, Steven attained a certificate from St Gerald Community Health Workers (CHW) Training School in Central Province to become a community health worker. He graduated in 2016, and he has since worked with several non-government organisations to provide treatment and care for TB patients in NCD settlements. While working with World Vision PNG, Steven has been instrumental in establishing community outreach sites and leading awareness for TB with the support of his team.
He wakes up as early as 4am to be at the community outreach sites in time to administer treatment for his patients. He facilitates referrals for his patients to go for further clinical examinations and ensures results are ready on time. The tasks are challenging but rewarding for Steven who draws his inspiration from the patients he cares for.
He has made it his mission to provide not just medical care but also emotional support to those battling TB.
Steven’s determination and desire to provide his patients the best possible care drove him to undertake a Diploma in General Nursing from the Lae School of Nursing in 2023, through an Australia Awards In-PNG scholarship.
“Since I have gained this Diploma, I now feel more confident in my work. I have climbed another step up, and I collaborate with other nurses and contribute more meaningfully to combating TB. I am now initiating treatment for patients, which I was unable to do before,” Steven proudly says.
Steven is continuing his work against TB with World Vision PNG, working in the Lawes Road, Murray Barracks and Metoreia Clinics in the National Capital District. Steven is also training new staff and community treatment supporters to accelerate the fight against TB.