An Unexpected Calling

A Midwife’s Journey to Managing a Community Health Facility

Masri Ndoen began her career as a midwife and health professional in a very unexpected manner. Without planning or preparation, one day she joined her friends to take the entry exam for nursing school – and passed.

After more than 25 years as a midwife, Masri now manages the Batakte Community Health Center in West Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara. Now that she leads the health center, Masri’s background and experience as a midwife gives her useful insight for understanding the needs of her staff and the community.

“Ultimately, our goal is to create a healthy community,” said Masri. “But we can’t achieve that without actively involving the people we serve. There needs to be effort made by and through the community itself so we can all reach our shared goals.”