From Zimbabwe to Doncaster: Midwife known as Happiness and her inspiring journey

By doncasterfreepress.co.uk

When Natsai (known to friends and family as Happiness) Mushaninga arrived in the UK in January 2023, she couldn’t have imagined that less than two years later, she would be leading a team as Deputy Ward Manager on the Antenatal and Postnatal Ward at Doncaster Royal Infirmary (DRI).

Happiness’ journey began in her home country of Zimbabwe, where she originally trained to become a midwife.

“I really wanted to learn about the populations that I was serving and how to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths, which is why I completed an additional degree in Geography and Environmental Studies, as well as a Monitoring and Evaluation Special Honours Postgraduate,” she explained.

In January 2023, she moved to Doncaster to put her skills into practice and gain a deeper understanding of how maternal and neonatal healthcare operates within a developed health system.

“I’ve been supported by the Trust every step of the way – from finding accommodation and completing bootcamp to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council, to helping me reunite with my family five months later. Their support has been incredible, and having my family here has made all the difference.”

Less than a year after becoming a Rotational Midwife, Happiness was successfully appointed Deputy Ward Manager on the Antenatal and Postnatal Ward at DRI.

However, her learning didn’t stop there: “I embarked on the leadership course offered by the Florence Nightingale Foundation and also completed the Elevate programme, which is for ethnic minorities.”

To top off her impressive list of achievements, Happiness now serves as a Cultural Safety Support Champion at DBTH and contributes to both the Decision Making Council for internationally educated healthcare professionals and the PROMPT faculty, helping to support colleague and student education across maternity services.

Reflecting on her journey so far, Happiness said: “When I came here, I didn’t see myself being where I am today, but there are so many opportunities in the NHS. My Trust made us aware of them, and I just grabbed every one that came my way. I had to be uncomfortable to become comfortable.”

Zoe Lintin, Chief People Officer at DBTH, added: “We are incredibly proud to support colleagues like Happiness as they build rewarding and meaningful careers here at DBTH. Her journey reflects the talent, dedication and potential within our workforce, and the difference that the right support and opportunities can make.”

Happiness’ journey is nothing short of inspiring – proving that with passion, perseverance, and the right support, anything is possible.