Her journey has been supported by the New Zealand Medical Treatment Scheme (NZMTS), which enabled her to pursue a Master's degree in Health Research Midwifery at Victoria University of Wellington. 

"The NZMTS programme has supported me in many ways throughout my academic journey," Monica says. 

"The financial support allowed me to strengthen my skills, knowledge and research capacity, while broadening my understanding of maternal and newborn health." 

Monica says the opportunity has had a lasting impact on both her professional development and her ability to contribute to healthcare in Kiribati. 

"The experience has equipped me to strengthen midwifery education, research and healthcare services in Kiribati. It has also given me the confidence and motivation to make a positive impact in my country." 

Today, Monica is using those skills to teach and mentor future midwives, contribute to policy and practice, and support the ongoing development of midwifery training in Kiribati. 

A Passion for Birth and New Life 

Monica's decision to become a midwife was inspired by her passion for supporting women and families during one of life's most important moments. 

"Birth has always been my passion," she says. 

"I am inspired by the privilege of being present at the beginning of a new life and supporting women during one of the most crucial moments of their lives." 

She describes the experience of welcoming a newborn into the world as deeply rewarding, but also recognises the challenges facing her country. 

Kiribati continues to experience high rates of maternal mortality and under-five child mortality, a reality that drives Monica's commitment to her profession. 

"This passion motivates me to provide safe, compassionate and evidence-based care to mothers, babies and their families, while contributing to improving maternal and newborn health outcomes in my beloved country." 

The Importance of Language and Culture 

For Monica, language and culture are central to providing effective and respectful care. 

"As a midwife, my language and culture are the foundations of my professional practice," she explains. 

Being able to communicate in her own language helps build trust and understanding with women, families and communities, ensuring they receive clear health information and feel supported throughout their care journey. 

She says understanding cultural values, beliefs and practices also enables her to deliver culturally safe care that recognises the unique needs of every individual. 

"By incorporating language and culture into my practice, it strengthens relationships and partnerships with women, improves health outcomes, and enhances positive experiences for mothers and their families." 

Inspiring Future Midwives 

Monica hopes to inspire more nurses and young people to consider a career in midwifery. 

"Believe in your ability to make a difference and be an agent of change," she says. 

She describes midwifery as a profession built on compassion, courage and dedication, with midwives playing a critical role in supporting women and families before, during and after birth. 

To those considering the profession, her message is simple: never stop learning. 

"Every new skill, experience and piece of knowledge helps a midwife provide safer and better care for mothers, babies and families." 

Monica believes investing in education and maintaining international standards of practice can help reduce maternal and newborn mortality, minimise unnecessary interventions and ensure care is accessible, respectful and effective. 

Through her work as an educator and advocate, she is helping make that vision a reality for future generations in Kiribati. 

*** 

Supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and coordinated by the Pasifika Medical Association Group, the NZMTS remains dedicated to building resilient health systems and strengthening specialist capability across the Pacific region. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the Ministry or New Zealand Government.