When Beaudesert Hospital midwife Natalie Newman enrolled in university at 28 years old, she wasn't sure she belonged.
After having her own children, Natalie considered a career in midwifery but almost let self-doubt stand in her way.
Thankfully, her determination outweighed her fears and she took a chance on herself, balancing study, family life and the demands of raising young children.
Fast forward six years and Natalie is thriving as a much-loved member of Beaudesert Hospital's maternity team, known for her compassionate approach and commitment to supporting women and families.
Natalie was recently named both Metro South Health and Beaudesert Hospital Midwife of the Year, an honour she said left her feeling both proud and humbled.
"Being respected and acknowledged by my peers, but mostly by the women we care for, really makes me proud," she said.
Natalie joined Beaudesert Hospital in February 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic began.
She said the Beaudesert Maternity Service was the most supportive and woman centred workplace, a place where the entire team strived to achieve the same outcome and goals.
For Natalie, one of the most rewarding aspects of midwifery was witnessing the many different ways families come together to support one another during pregnancy and birth.
"I love seeing how every family is different," she said.
From grandparents playing a central role or extended family members stepping in to provide support when loved ones live far away, Natalie said every family's story was unique.
"There has to be no judgement in midwifery because every family dynamic is different. Cultural values play a huge role in the way families operate, and it's important to understand and respect that."
Natalie said her recent awards were not just recognition of her own work, but of the importance of supporting women and families through every stage of their journey.
Her message to anyone who, like her, felt they were not smart enough for university, or who was allowing self-doubt to stand in the way of their goals, is to simply give it a go!
"The only regrets you should have are the chances you didn't take."