Sheldon shapes lives

Young alumnus honoured for his holistic care

As a tertiary student, Sheldon Omwamba (BN, 2018) embraced three ideals that continue to shape the way he lives and works.

Caring from the heart—with compassion and empathy—is at the core of Sheldon’s approach to nursing. “This ensures my interactions with patients and colleagues are grounded in kindness and understanding.”

Aiming higher drives Sheldon to seek improvement, which has helped him overcome challenges—such as emigrating from Kenya to Australia as a teenager—achieve goals and strive for excellence. He loves learning, completing a Graduate Certificate of Dementia and, now, a Master of Advanced Nursing (Chronic and Complex Care). And leading. Sheldon is a participant in the Australian College of Nursing’s Emerging Nurse Leader (ENL) Program and a clinical care manager for RSL LifeCare having had a similar role with Catholic Healthcare. He also offers leadership support for the Chronic Disease Faculty at the Australian College of Nursing (ACN). Recognising a commitment to growing professionally is the Patricia Slater Award—for contribution to aged care—at the 2022 National Nurses Forum, an ENL High Achiever Award and an ACN Policy Fellowship Scholarship.

Following in the steps of Christ, whose example of love and humility inspires Sheldon to live a life of purpose and dedication to others. The Avondale experience, particularly the emphasis on service, appealed to Sheldon. “It nurtured my spiritual growth and helped me form lifelong friendships with classmates and lecturers who have had a significant influence on me. These relationships have inspired me to give back to the community.” Previous experiences as a street chaplain, first aider and first responder have also been “incredibly rewarding.”

Sheldon thanks his mother for her support, especially as he adapted to his new country. “Her unwavering faith and encouragement has been a constant source of strength.”

Avondale Alumni honours Sheldon Omwamba as its Young Alumnus of the Year for demonstrating holistic care that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of others.