“When I was 10 years old I never would have believed it if you told me that I would not only be pursuing the career of my dreams but also moving halfway across the world to the United Kingdom to kick start this journey.

“Although a scary concept my anticipations were high and the adrenaline was pumping. Members of Team NWAS have made this process smooth sailing keeping in continuous contact even across opposite time zones keeping us up to date on what to expect! Alongside this, we have been slowly introduced into our new stations ensuring we know how the station runs, who to contact and educating us on disparities between and NHS ambulance service and our services back in Australia.

“I am currently stationed in the newly built Blackpool ambulance station which is an amazing facility. Although there are some differences and similarities with the role here compared to Australia such as treatment guidelines and referral pathways, the teams at Blackpool have made this transition as comfortable and enjoyable as possible and for that, I can’t thank them enough. 

“I couldn’t be more ecstatic about this opportunity to be a part of NWAS. They have helped solidify in my soul that this is the career I want to pursue for the rest of my life and have helped me already set goals for my future like joining the Hazardous Area Response Team. 

“Although I was nervous for my first shifts as an NHS paramedic, I ensured I gave it my all with getting stuck in there and assessing a range of different patients. To me, being a paramedic is more than just another career option. It is a dedication to myself and the community to be a pillar of support to people from all walks of life in what may be the happiest or most detrimental moments of their lives and aid them in any way that I can. I’ve still got a lot to learn and can’t wait to see what the future has in store for me.”

We welcome Zanda and his colleagues into our green family and wish them good luck in their new careers.