Amber Kirkman: A Local Legend and hero.
Mobile Health Group’s (MHG) Local Legend initiative is in full swing, recognising outstanding individuals across Aotearoa from top to bottom.
When you meet Amber Kirkman, one thing becomes clear straight away, she’s deeply passionate about people. Based at Dunstan Hospital in Clyde, Amber is a Clinical Nurse Educator who’s helping to shape the future of rural healthcare through education, empowerment, and heart.
“Rural health professionals face many challenges,” she says. “And those of us working at Dunstan Hospital are no exception. We’re not near any major hospitals, so ensuring our staff are continually developing both their skills and knowledge is crucial.”
Amber’s role is all about making sure health professionals feel confident and equipped whether they’re new to the field or have years of experience under their belt.
“I feel really motivated to make an impactful contribution to education here,” she says. “Many of our staff aren’t necessarily local to Clyde. A lot of us travel from nearby towns. Given the challenges that come with rural healthcare, I think it’s important that our staff and other community organisations feel supported.”
Amber lives in Cromwell with her family and commutes to the hospital each day. Originally from the North Island, she says living rurally has always felt right.
“Nature and being immersed in the outdoors are important to my family and me. Having that authentic community connection is also a huge value of mine. Living and working rurally allows me to honour those values,” she says. “I absolutely love the work I do and serving a community that values togetherness and collaboration.”
Amber’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. A colleague who nominated her for our Local Legend award described her as “enthusiastic, engaged, organised, and passionate about delivering rural health education.”
They added, “Amber is totally committed to providing education for hospital and community-based staff. Her work ethic has led to a rise in attendance and variety at study days, which has ultimately improved patient care.”
Another colleague who also nominated Amber shared about the meaningful impact Amber has had on MHG’s My Health Hub service.
“It is a pleasure to work alongside Amber who brings great study days to the team in her area.” Amber’s second nominee shares.
They add, “Amber works really hard to make sure the topics are what her team need, and she is so enthusiastic. Amber has promoted the study days really well and has had record numbers of attendees. She has encouraged health professionals from the whole geographical area join in and makes sure she gets maximum numbers of people in varied roles taking advantage of the valuable learning opportunities. Great work Amber!”
Amber is one of the many incredible individuals we’re proud to celebrate as part of our Local Legend initiative. She’s a tireless educator, a rural health advocate, and a true community champion.
Want to nominate someone doing great things in your community?
Learn more about our Local Legend initiative here