"Anticipates every workday with enthusiasm"
Title: Ingolstadt Hospital's Multicultural Bufdi Journey: Shalima's Story
Spotlight Story
Meet Shalima Tsaramitovy, the 26-year-old Bufdi (Federal Volunteer) working at Ingolstadt Hospital who's proving that healthcare isn't just a profession, but a calling. Her story stands out because it's not your typical Bufdi narrative. Unlike most Bufdis, she's not a high school grad taking a gap year, or testing the waters before embarking on a nursing career.
"Helping people's been my passion since I was a kid," Shalima says, ceaselessly radiating enthusiasm. With a background in Madagascar, where she completed her high school education and a nursing apprenticeship, she sure has had a unique journey to Germany. In 2023, as an au pair in Memmingen, she honed her language skills and gathered an understanding of the German culture, but it wasn't long before she yearned for a return to nursing.
"The move to Germany was pivotal," she reminisces. "Working as a Bufdi was my way to learn about nursing here and to discover what it takes to excel." Set on Station 85, Early Rehabilitation, Shalima's been helping patients regain independence after severe accidents, strokes, and other acute emergencies since September 2024.
Shalima points out that what makes her work fascinating is the diversity of people she encounters and the range of illnesses she deals with. "It's heartwarming to see patients recovering under my care," she beams. "I treat them with the utmost kindness, attend to their health needs, mobilize them, and chat away during our walks, when time allows."
After completing her Bufdi stint, Shalima has set her eyes on training as a healthcare assistant at the clinic come September. With the clinic confirming her training position, she's buzzing with excitement. "My Bufdi experience has solidified my desire to work in care. I'm ready to take on the next challenge," she shares.
The Bufdi program is a fantastic opportunity for young individuals considering a career in healthcare to sample professional life while making a positive impact. "Shalima's an asset to our acute geriatric and early rehabilitation ward," says Beate Hermanns, the ward's head. "She's involved in all facets of care, addresses patient needs, and bolsters our team. It's mutually advantageous."
If you fancy joining Shalima in making a difference in healthcare, get in touch with Markus Kugler at [email protected]. Applications are welcome all year round. Bring your eagerness to make a difference, your commitment to learn, and your heart to help—and you'll leave the Bufdi program wiser, stronger, and better equipped for your nursing career.
The Federal Voluntary Service (Bufdi) is about encouraging volunteering, fostering civic engagement, and providing hands-on experience across various sectors. With no upper age limit and benefits that range from financial support to networking and skill development, it serves as a stepping stone for those considering a healthcare career.
[1] Bundesfreiwilligendienst, Bufdi: www.bfdi-online.de
[2] Ausbildung im Gesundheitsbereich: www.bmbf.de
[3] Information on housing and financial assistance for Bufdis: www.bonndiagnostik.de
[4] Time commitment and hours per week for Bufdis varies depending on the placement: www.wandercamp.de
- Shalima's passion for healthcare led her to join the Federal Voluntary Service (Bufdi) program, where she gained valuable experience in the science of nursing and health-and-wellness.
- Working at Ingolstadt Hospital, Shalima discovered that the diverse range of people and health issues she encountered made her work in health-and-wellness science truly fascinating, strengthening her commitment to a career in healthcare.
