A journey of compassion and dedication to become a midwife
In the lush, mountainous region of northern Laos, a 20-year-old Khmu girl named Sengla nurtured a dream that set her apart from others in her village. She aspired to become a midwife, a beacon of hope for the women in her ethnic community, helping them bring new life into the world. Yet, like many girls in her village, Sengla faced the challenge of limited educational opportunities.
A life-changing opportunity
In 2016, Sengla’s life took a significant turn when she was awarded a scholarship to study at the health college in Saravan Province. While this achievement filled her with immense joy, it also brought a sense of nervousness. The prospect of traveling over 1,000 miles from her hometown to a new place was both exciting and daunting. Yet, her determination to fulfill her dream of becoming a midwife gave her the courage to embark on this journey.
Sengla’s time at the health college was marked by unwavering commitment. Despite the challenges of being far from home, she remained focused on her studies. After completing her midwifery course, Sengla decided to stay in the province where she had trained, interning at a health centre there for 2 more years.
The first delivery: A defining moment
One of Sengla’s most unforgettable experiences was leading her first delivery. “I was nervous but also excited,” she recalls. “The mother was in labour, and I could see the fear in her eyes. I held her hand and assured her that everything would be alright. When the baby finally arrived, the room was filled with cries of new life. It was the most beautiful sound I had ever heard. At that moment, I knew this was my calling.”
“When the baby finally arrived, the room was filled with cries of new life. It was the most beautiful sound I had ever heard. At that moment, I knew this was my calling.”
Sengla
In 2020, Sengla’s dedication paid off when she became a permanent state employee. Her personal life blossomed alongside her professional one, as she married and welcomed an adorable daughter into her life. Balancing her roles as a mother and a midwife, Sengla continued to strive for excellence in her work.
Joining the Pheuan Thea Approach
Last year, Sengla reached a significant milestone in her career by joining the Pheuan Thea (True Friend) approach, a programme designed to improve midwifery technical skills and promote friendly, effective services for ethnic mothers and children. This training not only enhanced her abilities but also reinforced her commitment to providing compassionate care.
Through the Pheuan Thea approach, Sengla learned advanced techniques in delivering babies safely. “Safety is paramount,” she says. “I learned how to handle complicated deliveries and ensure the well-being of both mother and child. This knowledge has been invaluable in my practice.”
Sengla also learned the importance of providing comprehensive antenatal and postnatal care. “It’s not just about delivering babies,” she explains. “We need to support mothers before and after birth, ensuring they have the right nutrition and care. This holistic approach helps in building a healthy community.”
“A clean environment is crucial for health,”
Sengla
The Pheuan Thea approach emphasised the importance of maintaining a clean and welcoming health center. “A clean environment is crucial for health,” Sengla states. “We learned how to maintain hygiene and create a friendly atmosphere where mothers feel comfortable and supported.”
A light of hope for the community
Today, Sengla stands as a testament to the power of dreams and determination. Her journey from a small village in northern Laos to becoming a skilled midwife has profoundly impacted her ethnic community. She continues to serve with passion and dedication, ensuring that every mother and child who visits the health center receives the highest standard of care.
Reflecting on her career, Sengla shares an inspirational quote: “To bring life into this world and to nurture it is the greatest gift. Being a midwife allows me to be a part of this miraculous journey, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
The power of support and education
Sengla’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference one dedicated individual can make. Her journey is not just a testament to her perseverance but also an inspiration to others who dare to dream and work tirelessly to make those dreams come true. With financial support from the Australian NGO Cooperation Programme, Plan International is proud to support young women like Sengla in their journey to make a difference in the world.
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