3 minute read
Meet the DON: Manezheh Jafari
MEET THE DON
Manezheh Jafari
Director of Nursing at Vaucluse Aged Care Home in Sydney, NSW.
Vaucluse Aged Care Home’s Director of Nursing Manezheh Jafari has worked in the aged care sector for over three decades but before that, was something of a showbiz celebrity in her home country of Iran. These days however, she’s happiest walking her dog Boby or playing with her three young grandchildren. By Gabi Mills.
L&L: How long have you been working in aged care, and what drew you to the profession?
MJ: I believe it’s about 35 years. Before working in aged care, I was a clinical nurse, but my heart has always been with the elderly.
L&L: When did you join Hall & Prior and in what capacity?
MJ: I joined Hall & Prior about 15 years ago as a Deputy Director of Nursing here at Vaucluse Aged Care Home. I love this home so much and really enjoy being here every day.
L&L: What do you particularly enjoy about your role - and what are the challenges you face?
MJ: A sense of purpose! I love my job as it is immensely rewarding and deeply satisfying to be able to help our residents to live better lives and to help them enjoy this stage of life. Every day we are faced with challenges, whether they be clinical or emotional, we always work together with family and residents to get the best outcomes to any challenge. Also, quality of life matters a lot. The sense of satisfaction is almost incomparable with anything else in the world, especially when you see the daily improvement in people’s quality of life. Unfortunately, losing a loved one is an undeniable and saddest truth of this job.
L&L: On a day-to-day basis, what makes your role special and how do you plan on inspiring staff at your home?
MJ: You never stop learning in this job and I still learn new things even after 35 years in this industry. We are not just a ‘team’ here at Vaucluse; we are a family. We know what motivates our team members and we support each other as much as we can. We are always professional and at the same time, fair. Each team member has a unique strength that can be applied to a specific role or responsibility. Effective communication is everything. We welcome new ideas, opinions and also concern. Feedback is always seen as a positive thing, even when the news is challenging, we see it as an opportunity to improve.
L&L: If somebody was contemplating a career in aged care, what advice would you give them?
MJ: You need certain things to be successful in a career in aged care: technical knowledge, the relevant qualifications and organisational skills, and last, but not least, communication skills are of the highest importance.
L&L: What kind of leader are you - how do you think your colleagues would describe you?
MJ: I think I always work hard to deliver clear communication. Being effective when leading staff is all down to how well you are understood. Troubleshooting skills are also something I have learned during my time in aged care.
L&L: What makes for a good day in aged care in your chosen career path?
MJ: The best feeling is that our work will truly make a difference that changes people’s lives; that is the primary motivation.
L&L: How do you relax when you have finished work for the day?
MJ: I like walking my dog, Boby and spending time with my three adorable little grandchildren.
L&L: Tell us something we don’t know about you.
MJ: Are you ready to be surprised? I was a TV/ radio presenter/broadcaster long ago back home in Iran! Also, as whispered by my family and friends, I can sing!
