The Nurse Who Prioritizes Life: Charles’ Journey from Kenya to Austria
When Charles speaks about nursing, his tone carries both humility and quiet conviction. “A nurse is the one who prioritizes people’s health for life,” he says simply, a statement that in many ways sums up his journey.
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Charles’ path into nursing was not straightforward. Like many students in Kenya, his first dream was to become a doctor. But when that didn’t materialize after his KCSE, he explored other medical fields such as clinical medicine, pharmacy, and nursing. In the end, nursing chose him. “Originally, it was a bit tough,” he admits with a soft laugh. “I didn’t realize how competitive it was. Getting an actual slot was hard, and once you start, you realize the workload is even harder.”
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He joined Mount Kenya University in 2019 where his four year journey toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing began. Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, a pause that unexpectedly allowed him to regroup, study better, and refocus. By August 2023, he graduated, proud but aware that the real work was just beginning.
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Shortly after, Charles started studying German, preparing for an opportunity that had quietly begun circulating among nursing students, an overseas placement for nurses in Austria. “At first, I thought it was for Germany,” he recalls. “You know, when you hear about a German speaking country, you just think of Germany. But later, I learned that Austria also speaks German.”
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It was through the nursing faculty at MKU that Charles learned the opportunity was real, organized in partnership with a local placement program TYE, the university, and Austrian partners. “We were lucky because our German classes were well supported,” he says. “We had classes every evening for two to three hours, and the fees were affordable.” He later met George, Vice President of Lebenshilfe, Rose Fina of TYE and Dr. Mutembei, who oversaw professional development and encouraged the students to pursue the program seriously.
Charles and Fina
Charles completed his internship at Thika Level 5 Hospital, working in the theater, an experience that sparked his interest in anesthesiology. “Originally, I thought I’d like to specialize in emergency and accident care,” he says. “But after working in the theater, I realized anesthesia is where my passion lies. You’re part of the process that saves lives, stabilizes patients, and manages the critical moments.” He explains it with clarity, the kind that comes from both curiosity and compassion.
“Emergency and anesthesia are linked,” he continues. “In both, you must act fast, think clearly, and handle critical situations. You’re part of the team that gives patients another chance.”
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Beyond the technical skills, Charles speaks often about the human side of nursing. “People come with so many other issues,” he says. “Someone may be sick, but their mind is on their child, or they’re worried about money. As a nurse, you have to be the one who prioritizes their health for them. You have to care beyond the disease.”
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When asked about what he looks forward to most in Austria, Charles grins. “Winter,” he says quickly. “I want to experience real winter.” He also looks forward to learning about a new healthcare system, understanding how things work in a country where healthcare is universal, and experiencing a more balanced nurse to patient ratio. “In Kenya, sometimes you find yourself handling an entire ward alone,” he says. “I’m hoping for a more efficient system, but I know the work will still be demanding.”
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The language, he admits, has been his biggest challenge. “Learning German wasn’t easy,” he says. “Especially online, it’s hard to practice if you don’t have people to speak with daily. But once you start, it becomes easier if you’re consistent."
Now, with his B1 certificate, his visa, and his bags nearly packed, Charles is ready to begin his Austrian chapter. He has big dreams, to get his degree recognized in Austria, specialize in anesthesia, and maybe one day earn a scholarship to advance his studies further. “You have to stay open minded,” he says. “The opportunities are there if you’re willing to work for them.”
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He still laughs at how far he’s come, from hearing vague rumors about a foreign nursing program to preparing to board a plane to Vienna. “At first, I didn’t believe it,” he admits. “But here we are.”
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Before we finish, he offers advice for those still in Kenya, waiting for their turn. “Be ready. Know what’s required and commit yourself,” he says. “The language, the paperwork, it all takes effort. But if you’re focused, you’ll get there. You just need to pursue your goal with consistency.”
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Then, after a thoughtful pause, he adds, “And when you finally get there, remember why you started, because we’re the ones who prioritize life.”
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