A passionate Victoria University alumni is helping prepare the next generation of midwives to deal with the western suburbs’ baby boom.
Val Dibella, manager of Women’s and Children’s Education at Sunshine Hospital, leads a team of educators providing clinical support and continuing education at Western Health.
“The role involves working collaboratively with the women’s and children’s [education] leadership team, and having a close relationship with a variety of universities,” she said. “I also co-ordinate the midwifery graduate program for Western Health, which is a supportive program for newly graduated students to transition into the workplace as registered midwives.”
Ms Dibella said the most rewarding aspect of her role is seeing students grow into themselves on becoming a midwife, and their transition over the years into leadership roles.
Her own midwifery journey began with VU studies 20 years ago, after she looked for a university that offered variety and opportunities, such as hospital placements.
Ms Dibella quickly discovered a passion for midwifery and has extended that into her work supporting new midwives as they enter a busy hospital system.
“I think VU has made me the compassionate, professional and clinically expert nurse and midwife that I am,” she said. “Along with a focus on current evidence-based practice, VU had a strong focus on professionalism.
“These important aspects have shaped me and guided me in all the roles I have been in during my time at Western Health.”
Ms Dibella said she has seen big changes during her career, and is excited to be part of the new $200 million Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital, due in 2018.
“This will provide women and their families with … the state-of-the-art care and facilities they need throughout the birthing continuum and, most importantly, [it’s] close to home.”
Ms Dibella said all former students and staff of Victoria University, and its predecessor institutions, are invited to Reunion Day at the Footscray Park campus on December 3, part of VU Homecoming celebrations on December 2-4.
Details: www.vucentenary.com.au
