Dr Mercy Moraa Nyanchoga

Tell us something that might surprise others to learn about you.

Many people are surprised to learn that I came to Australia as an international student knowing absolutely no one. I still remember arriving at Brisbane Airport at 8.00pm on 30 June 2018. I was excited, but if I'm honest, I was mostly terrified. During my first week, I questioned whether I had made the right decision and even thought about going back home.

Looking back now, I could never have imagined where that journey would lead. Every opportunity I have had has been built through volunteering, seeking mentors, saying yes to new experiences and never stopping learning. It has taught me that some of life's biggest transformations begin with a single courageous decision, and that persistence, curiosity and the support of others can take you much further than you ever thought possible.

What inspired you to pursue your current career path?

My inspiration came from seeing firsthand how health systems determine who gets access to care and who gets left behind. Working in Kakuma Refugee Camp showed me that even the most dedicated clinicians cannot overcome the limitations of a weak system. That experience sparked my passion for strengthening health systems and creating more equitable care.

It also made me realise that policy, leadership, data and community voices can shape people's lives just as much as clinical care. From that point on, I knew I wanted to work beyond the bedside and help build systems that work better for everyone.

Is there a standout experience from your time at Griffith that helped you to get where you are now?

My Work Integrated Learning placement at Metro South Health was a defining experience. It gave me the opportunity to put theory into practice and develop a deeper understanding of how Australia's health system operates.

When COVID-19 began, I suddenly had to complete my placement from home. It was challenging, but it taught me resilience, adaptability and how to stay focused during uncertain times. Griffith supported me throughout that experience, and those lessons continue to influence how I approach both my work and life.

Did you have any mentors from Griffith who influenced you? Are you still connected to them?

I was fortunate to have several Griffith lecturers and supervisors who shaped both my academic journey and my career. I am especially grateful to Mark Avery, who was the program director at the time. I chose Griffith after watching a video of him describing the course, and his warmth during orientation confirmed I had made the right decision. I still remember him welcoming us with homemade muffins from his wife, a small gesture that meant so much when everything felt new and uncertain.

My dissertation supervisor, Gaery Barbery, was another pivotal mentor. His guidance pushed me not only to complete my research to a high Distinction, but to publish it and present it in multiple forums.