Meet Shae
Future registered nurse.
In Part 1, we were inspired by Angela Baker’s commitment to midwifery, no matter who or where they are.
Now, we turn to Shae Bowden, who is already a powerhouse on the healthcare front lines. Shae is tackling the dual challenge of working as an Enrolled Nurse while completing her Bachelor of Nursing in Tasmania’s North-West.
Her journey is a brilliant example of dedication, showing how passion drives regional health workers to upskill and deepen their impact.
2 minute read
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Shae, and I live in Ulverstone, a regional town on the north-west coast of Tasmania. I’m currently studying a Bachelor of Nursing at Charles Darwin University while also working as an Enrolled Nurse across both a local hospital and a nursing home.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in nursing?
Nursing has always felt like the right path for me. I’ve seen firsthand how much of a difference compassionate, competent care can make in people’s lives, especially in regional and aged care settings. I chose this career because I wanted to contribute meaningfully to my community and help address the healthcare needs in rural areas where access can be limited.
What does the Affinity Nursing & Midwifery Scholarship mean to you?
Receiving the Affinity Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship is both an honour and a relief. As a student balancing study with work, this support significantly reduces financial stress and allows me to focus more on learning and growing as a nurse.
It also feels incredibly encouraging to know that organisations like Affinity are investing in the future of regional healthcare, and in people like me who are passionate about making a difference.
The partnership between CDU and Affinity is creating real opportunities for students, and I’m very grateful to be part of it.
What are your future aspirations once you graduate?
I’m still exploring where I’d like to specialise and am hoping my clinical placements will guide me in finding the best fit. However, I do have a growing interest in cardiac nursing; it’s a field I find both complex and rewarding.
I’m excited to continue learning and discovering where I can make the most impact.
Thank you again, Affinity for this opportunity and your support. It’s a real difference to my journey.
We loved connecting with Angela (read here) and Shae to hear about their journey and inspiring aspirations, and we can’t wait to see the incredible, positive impact they will have on remote and rural Australians in the future.
Their dedication reinforces Affinity’s belief that by investing in passionate students, we are actively creating a stronger, more sustainable healthcare system across the country.
If you’re passionate about making a real difference in regional communities, and you’re seeking support to achieve your own nursing or midwifery dreams, we warmly encourage you to apply for our CSU Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship, which is currently open for applicants.