Clare Chitsa

 

From working in the mining industry in her native Zimbabwe, to becoming a Mental Health nurse, with two young children, Clare Chitsa’s life has transformed since joining the ¹û¶³´«Ã½ of Worcester.

Clare Chitsa

Clare relocated to the UK in 2019 and having worked as a metallurgical technician realised the need for a career transition.

“After the birth of my first child I suffered with postpartum blues, during which I received minimal support for my mental wellbeing,” she said. “This experience sparked a deep fascination within me for the field of mental health nursing. Motivated by a desire to contribute meaningfully to the lives of individuals struggling with mental health challenges, I embarked upon a journey of exploration and self-discovery, seeking to align my professional aspirations with the pressing need for comprehensive mental healthcare provision.”

Clare joined the ¹û¶³´«Ã½’s Mental Health Nursing degree, with one young child and another on the way, and discovered a passion for research.

“During my studies I had the privilege of being selected as one of only eight students to complete a nursing research internship,” she said. “This opportunity allowed me to engage with esteemed academic figures, immersing myself in conferences and meetings of profound significance that shape the landscape of evidence-based practice. It was a humbling experience to witness first-hand the profound impact these gatherings have on our current understanding of evidence-based practice.”

Clare has now secured a job as a staff nurse on an acute ward in Worcester, which incorporates a research collaborator role. She aspires to one day work as a clinical researcher in the field of psychosis and neuropsychiatry.

On graduating, Clare said: “My graduation fills me with a profound sense of excitement as it represents a remarkable milestone in my academic journey. This course has served as a foundation for my professional development. With great anticipation, I look forward to the forthcoming opportunities for genuine experiential learning and the acquisition of practical skills as a mental health practitioner.”

The ¹û¶³´«Ã½’s annual autumn Graduation Ceremonies will take place as planned from September 12-14 in the beautiful and historic Worcester Cathedral followed by celebration receptions at the City ¹û¶³´«Ã½. No Worcester graduates have been affected by the marking and assessment boycott.

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