Initially, Julia completed a Bachelor of Science with a major in Nutrition from the University of Otago in 2014. This sparked her interest in women’s health, leading her to finish her Bachelor of Midwifery in 2022. With her background in nutrition and her midwifery degree, Julia possesses a unique combination of skills that make her a sought-after professional for expecting mothers.

Julia loves that her job is different, varied, and interesting. A rewarding role that can be demanding, she has mastered the art of balancing her career with her lifestyle.

“The nature of the profession means that babies will come when they are ready, which means anytime. Fortunately, as a Lead Maternity Carer (LMC), we work on an on/off call basis, allowing us to have time away from work to recharge. My husband and parents have always been very supportive of this career choice, and that support has been invaluable, especially with our own young family,” says Julia.

Julia’s favourite aspect of her job is the relationships she builds and connecting with women and their families during such a special time.

“I love being able to walk beside women during their journeys from early pregnancy, supporting labour and birth, and then visiting them and their newborn babies at home.”

She would love to encourage other women to take up the challenge of midwifery.

“There are different roles within midwifery, for example, working with complexities at the hospital (shifts) or in primary care in the community (as an LMC with on-call work). There is a huge shortage of midwives in New Zealand, making it a very sought-after career with many options for overseas work too.”

Julia is married to Stephen, and they have a daughter, Florence (5) and a baby boy is soon to join the family later this year. During her off-call time, she spends time with her family and friends, walking the dogs, bush walks, and relaxing at home.