Hi, our names are Fiona and Jodie, and we are currently studying MSci Nursing at the University of Exeter. In 2024, we will be heading out to Tanzania to volunteer as student nurses, working alongside healthcare professionals in local hospitals. As it is a volunteering project, all expenses are to be paid by us, and as student nurses, these costs can be overwhelming! Whilst we are fundraising for donations, the money will not go towards our flights. Instead, donations will go towards our overall placement costs whilst in Tanzania, as well as materials and supplies we need in the hospitals.

Healthcare professionals in Tanzania face a range of challenges, including limited resources, understaffing, poor working conditions, and limited access to technology and information systems. In addition, prevalent diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and cholera pose specific challenges in terms of prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management. These challenges are further compounded in rural and underserved areas, requiring specialised knowledge, resources, and strategies to effectively address the healthcare needs of the population. Despite these obstacles, healthcare professionals in Tanzania work tirelessly to provide the best possible care to their patients with the available resources, showcasing their dedication and resilience.

We recognise the healthcare challenges faced by those in Tanzania. Jodie and I are motivated to volunteer and offer our skills, knowledge, and support to help address these challenges and make a positive impact on the lives of patients and communities in need. We’ll be diving into community health initiatives, conducting research on global health issues and focusing on diseases such as HIV and cholera. We’ll be spending our time in areas that interest us, such as Emergency medicine and wound care. We are driven by our passion for nursing, our desire to contribute to global health, and our commitment to compassionate care. Through volunteering in Tanzania, we aim to gain invaluable experience, learn from different healthcare settings, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it the most.

Any donations are really appreciated, no matter how big or small!

Thank you :)

Fiona & Jodie