“Some lives are not built—they are cultivated, with patience, compassion, and unshakable purpose."
Introduction
From the coral islands of Fiji to the clinical corridors of Melbourne’s Royal Women’s Hospital, Dr. Artika
Ben’s life has been a journey of grace under pressure, purpose in silence, and strength in service.
Her name may not echo through headlines, but her presence has transformed countless lives—one birth,
one touch, and one quiet act of care at a time.
Born into a culture rooted in humility and community, Dr. Artika Ben’s earliest lessons were not from textbooks but from observing resilience in her surroundings. Her upbringing in Fiji was grounded in values that would later define her character—respect, family, adaptability, and responsibility. Even as a young girl, she showed signs of what would become her professional calling: a natural attentiveness to those in need, a desire to understand pain, and a deep respect for life’s most fragile moments.
Her introduction to the medical world was not through glamour or privilege—it was through commitment and hard-earned education. She began her career as a nurse in Fiji, immersing herself in the demands of community health, pediatric care, emergency medicine, and obstetrics. These early years were formative; they not only sharpened her clinical instincts but also nurtured her sensitivity to the cultural, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of patient care.
Dr. Ben’s decision to pursue midwifery in New Zealand was more than a professional pivot—it was a personal vow to advocate for women at the most powerful and vulnerable stages of their lives. The rigorous academic environment at Auckland University of Technology, combined with 4800 hours of practical immersion, deepened her belief that childbirth is not a mechanical process but a human journey. She learned not just how to deliver babies—but how to deliver dignity.
Over the years, her journey expanded in depth and geography. In New Zealand, she served as a Lead Maternity Carer (LMC), providing continuity of care across antenatal, birth, and postnatal stages. Her work wasn’t just about procedures—it was about empowerment, education, and emotional presence. She held hands during water births, managed emergencies with confidence, and walked beside women through both triumph and tragedy. Her ability to balance clinical precision with emotional intelligence made her not only a trusted midwife but also a beacon of calm in moments of crisis.
In Australia, her expertise continued to grow as she took on pivotal roles at the Royal Women’s Hospital in Melbourne. Rising to positions of responsibility during the COVID-19 pandemic, she became a midwife in charge and associate unit manager, showcasing her capability to lead under unprecedented pressure. She wasn’t simply managing systems—she was holding space for life in its rawest form, during a time when even human touch had to be measured. Currently she is serving at Kilmore District Hospital in rural Victoria as clinical midwife.
Born into a culture rooted in humility and community, Dr. Artika Ben’s earliest lessons were not from textbooks but from observing resilience in her surroundings. Her upbringing in Fiji was grounded in values that would later define her character—respect, family, adaptability, and responsibility. Even as a young girl, she showed signs of what would become her professional calling: a natural attentiveness to those in need, a desire to understand pain, and a deep respect for life’s most fragile moments.
Her introduction to the medical world was not through glamour or privilege—it was through commitment and hard-earned education. She began her career as a nurse in Fiji, immersing herself in the demands of community health, pediatric care, emergency medicine, and obstetrics. These early years were formative; they not only sharpened her clinical instincts but also nurtured her sensitivity to the cultural, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of patient care.
Dr. Ben’s decision to pursue midwifery in New Zealand was more than a professional pivot—it was a personal vow to advocate for women at the most powerful and vulnerable stages of their lives. The rigorous academic environment at Auckland University of Technology, combined with 4800 hours of practical immersion, deepened her belief that childbirth is not a mechanical process but a human journey. She learned not just how to deliver babies—but how to deliver dignity.
Over the years, her journey expanded in depth and geography. In New Zealand, she served as a Lead Maternity Carer (LMC), providing continuity of care across antenatal, birth, and postnatal stages. Her work wasn’t just about procedures—it was about empowerment, education, and emotional presence. She held hands during water births, managed emergencies with confidence, and walked beside women through both triumph and tragedy. Her ability to balance clinical precision with emotional intelligence made her not only a trusted midwife but also a beacon of calm in moments of crisis.
In Australia, her expertise continued to grow as she took on pivotal roles at the Royal Women’s Hospital in Melbourne. Rising to positions of responsibility during the COVID-19 pandemic, she became a midwife in charge and associate unit manager, showcasing her capability to lead under unprecedented pressure. She wasn’t simply managing systems—she was holding space for life in its rawest form, during a time when even human touch had to be measured. Currently she is serving at Kilmore District Hospital in rural Victoria as clinical midwife.
“Before I ever held a newborn, I was held by a culture that taught me love, resilience, and respect.”
Phase 1: Roots of Compassion: A Fijian Childhood and Family Foundation
Before she ever stepped into a delivery room or comforted a mother in labor, Dr. Artika Ben was being formed in the embrace of something much deeper than formal education: the embrace of culture, compassion, and quiet strength. Her story began on the islands of Fiji, surrounded by the rhythm of
nature, the simplicity of village life, and the richness of values passed down from generation to generation.
In the home of her he learned that service to others was not a task—it was a way of being. Her parents were not people of many words, but their actions spoke volumes. They lived with integrity, discipline, and deep spiritual grounding. They taught her to respect every human being, to listen before speaking, and to always lead with humility. These lessons, passed on through everyday actions, would form the moral spine of the woman the world would later come to know as a compassionate midwife and leader.
Growing up, Dr. Artika witnessed the quiet strength of her mother and the gentle wisdom of her father. Their home was a place of calm, a place where values were not preached but lived. Even as a young girl, she showed signs of deep emotional intelligence. She would instinctively reach out to comfort others, help elderly neighbors, and offer kindness wherever she could. These traits were not taught—they were inherited from her environment, shaped by the empathy that flowed naturally around her.
Fiji, though filled with natural beauty and warmth, had its challenges—especially in healthcare. Dr. Artika saw how access to quality medical care was limited, especially for women and children. She witnessed families suffer from preventable complications, and she observed how many women endured pregnancy and childbirth without the support they truly needed. These early exposures planted something powerful in her: a need to do more. A need to serve, to heal, and to stand beside others in their most vulnerable moments.
Even in school, Dr. Artika was known not just for her academic discipline but for her gentleness and sense of responsibility. Science and biology fascinated her, not because of the theory, but because she saw them as pathways to human well-being. Her teachers noted her curiosity, her patience, and her natural leadership. But she never sought attention. Her motivation came from within—a quiet flame that burned with the desire to make a difference.
In the home of her he learned that service to others was not a task—it was a way of being. Her parents were not people of many words, but their actions spoke volumes. They lived with integrity, discipline, and deep spiritual grounding. They taught her to respect every human being, to listen before speaking, and to always lead with humility. These lessons, passed on through everyday actions, would form the moral spine of the woman the world would later come to know as a compassionate midwife and leader.
Growing up, Dr. Artika witnessed the quiet strength of her mother and the gentle wisdom of her father. Their home was a place of calm, a place where values were not preached but lived. Even as a young girl, she showed signs of deep emotional intelligence. She would instinctively reach out to comfort others, help elderly neighbors, and offer kindness wherever she could. These traits were not taught—they were inherited from her environment, shaped by the empathy that flowed naturally around her.
Fiji, though filled with natural beauty and warmth, had its challenges—especially in healthcare. Dr. Artika saw how access to quality medical care was limited, especially for women and children. She witnessed families suffer from preventable complications, and she observed how many women endured pregnancy and childbirth without the support they truly needed. These early exposures planted something powerful in her: a need to do more. A need to serve, to heal, and to stand beside others in their most vulnerable moments.
Even in school, Dr. Artika was known not just for her academic discipline but for her gentleness and sense of responsibility. Science and biology fascinated her, not because of the theory, but because she saw them as pathways to human well-being. Her teachers noted her curiosity, her patience, and her natural leadership. But she never sought attention. Her motivation came from within—a quiet flame that burned with the desire to make a difference.
“It was in the humble wards of my homeland that I first discovered that compassion is not a skill—it is a way of being.”
Phase 2: Nurse of the Islands: Clinical Rigor in Fiji’s Health System
Before she became a midwife, before the university degrees and global experience, Dr. Artika Ben began
her journey as a nurse in Fiji, where healthcare wasn’t simply a service—it was a lifeline for communities
who often had little else. Her formal career in medicine began in 2006, after she earned her Bachelor’s in
Science (Nursing) from the University of Fiji in Suva. This moment marked her entrance into a field
she had long observed with reverence: a profession rooted in service, sacrifice, and soul.
Her early years as a Registered Nurse were spent rotating through departments that spanned the entire human experience—medical and surgical wards, emergency rooms, outpatient clinics, obstetric centers, maternal-child health, pediatrics, and community health programs. In every space, she was not just learning techniques—she was absorbing truths. She learned to listen not just to symptoms, but to silences. She learned to read pain in the eyes of those too tired to speak. And above all, she learned that nursing was not a task—it was a calling.
Resources were limited, and situations often dire. But Dr. Ben never allowed external scarcity to diminish internal compassion. She worked alongside elders, mothers, infants, and terminally ill patients, bringing both clinical precision and human touch to every encounter. She changed bandages, administered medications, and assisted in trauma cases—but she also held hands, wiped tears, and stayed late when no one asked her to. Even then, her presence radiated something sacred: a calm strength that made people feel safe.
Her care for the elderly, particularly during her time at Lady Elizabeth Hospital and Rest Home, exposed her to the delicate realities of aged care, psychiatric nursing, and chronic illnesses like dementia and multiple sclerosis. She learned the rhythm of routines, the heartbreak of memory loss, and the grace it takes to love those who may never remember your name. It was here that her ability to see the person beyond the condition began to bloom. She never rushed, never judged. Her care was consistent, measured, and steeped in respect.
While others might have seen this phase as foundational, Dr. Ben recognized its eternal value. These were the years that taught her how to remain grounded amidst chaos, how to stay soft without breaking, and how to hold space for others without losing herself. She learned to lift bed-bound patients with care, manage psychiatric episodes with patience, and treat every act of caregiving—no matter how routine— as a moment of dignity.
Her early years as a Registered Nurse were spent rotating through departments that spanned the entire human experience—medical and surgical wards, emergency rooms, outpatient clinics, obstetric centers, maternal-child health, pediatrics, and community health programs. In every space, she was not just learning techniques—she was absorbing truths. She learned to listen not just to symptoms, but to silences. She learned to read pain in the eyes of those too tired to speak. And above all, she learned that nursing was not a task—it was a calling.
Resources were limited, and situations often dire. But Dr. Ben never allowed external scarcity to diminish internal compassion. She worked alongside elders, mothers, infants, and terminally ill patients, bringing both clinical precision and human touch to every encounter. She changed bandages, administered medications, and assisted in trauma cases—but she also held hands, wiped tears, and stayed late when no one asked her to. Even then, her presence radiated something sacred: a calm strength that made people feel safe.
Her care for the elderly, particularly during her time at Lady Elizabeth Hospital and Rest Home, exposed her to the delicate realities of aged care, psychiatric nursing, and chronic illnesses like dementia and multiple sclerosis. She learned the rhythm of routines, the heartbreak of memory loss, and the grace it takes to love those who may never remember your name. It was here that her ability to see the person beyond the condition began to bloom. She never rushed, never judged. Her care was consistent, measured, and steeped in respect.
While others might have seen this phase as foundational, Dr. Ben recognized its eternal value. These were the years that taught her how to remain grounded amidst chaos, how to stay soft without breaking, and how to hold space for others without losing herself. She learned to lift bed-bound patients with care, manage psychiatric episodes with patience, and treat every act of caregiving—no matter how routine— as a moment of dignity.
“Midwifery taught me that birth is not just a beginning—it’s a transformation for the woman, her child, and her caregiver.”
Phase 3: Crossing Waters, Building Bridges: Midwifery in New Zealand
When Dr. Artika Ben left the familiar shores of Fiji to pursue midwifery in New Zealand, it wasn’t
just a geographical shift—it was a profound leap into her life’s true calling. She had already proven herself
as a dependable and skilled nurse, one who could manage everything from emergencies to elderly care
with poise. But in her heart, there remained a deep pull toward supporting women at the threshold of
motherhood, a space she considered sacred.
Her admission into the Bachelor of Health Science in Midwifery at Auckland University of Technology was more than just an academic achievement—it was a spiritual milestone. The program was rigorous, built on 4800 hours of clinical practice and theoretical instruction, and demanded not just knowledge but complete presence of mind and heart. Yet for Artika, it felt natural. She was not intimidated by the pressure; she was inspired by the privilege. After all, to be invited into the room where a new life enters the world is not a job—it’s a sacred trust.
In her years of study and training, Dr. Ben immersed herself in every aspect of maternity care, from routine antenatal check-ups to high-risk labor scenarios. She shadowed midwives, worked under obstetricians, handled patient after patient, and never once forgot the faces of the women who entrusted her with their most vulnerable moments. Her philosophy was simple but powerful: every woman deserves to be seen, heard, and cared for—not just as a patient, but as a person.
Her strength lay in her ability to offer both clinical confidence and emotional companionship. Whether she was performing a vaginal examination, interpreting a CTG, managing syntocinon infusion, or guiding a woman through a water birth, she did so with a calmness that reassured families and colleagues alike. There were no shortcuts in her practice, only sincerity and presence.
It didn’t take long before she was serving as a Lead Maternity Carer (LMC)—a highly respected role in New Zealand that allowed her to provide continuity of care across all stages of a woman’s pregnancy. From the first appointment to six weeks postpartum, Dr. Ben became not just a midwife, but a trusted guide. She worked with both low and high-risk pregnancies, showing equal care whether she was supporting a healthy young mother or managing complex conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or intrauterine growth restriction.
Her admission into the Bachelor of Health Science in Midwifery at Auckland University of Technology was more than just an academic achievement—it was a spiritual milestone. The program was rigorous, built on 4800 hours of clinical practice and theoretical instruction, and demanded not just knowledge but complete presence of mind and heart. Yet for Artika, it felt natural. She was not intimidated by the pressure; she was inspired by the privilege. After all, to be invited into the room where a new life enters the world is not a job—it’s a sacred trust.
In her years of study and training, Dr. Ben immersed herself in every aspect of maternity care, from routine antenatal check-ups to high-risk labor scenarios. She shadowed midwives, worked under obstetricians, handled patient after patient, and never once forgot the faces of the women who entrusted her with their most vulnerable moments. Her philosophy was simple but powerful: every woman deserves to be seen, heard, and cared for—not just as a patient, but as a person.
Her strength lay in her ability to offer both clinical confidence and emotional companionship. Whether she was performing a vaginal examination, interpreting a CTG, managing syntocinon infusion, or guiding a woman through a water birth, she did so with a calmness that reassured families and colleagues alike. There were no shortcuts in her practice, only sincerity and presence.
It didn’t take long before she was serving as a Lead Maternity Carer (LMC)—a highly respected role in New Zealand that allowed her to provide continuity of care across all stages of a woman’s pregnancy. From the first appointment to six weeks postpartum, Dr. Ben became not just a midwife, but a trusted guide. She worked with both low and high-risk pregnancies, showing equal care whether she was supporting a healthy young mother or managing complex conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or intrauterine growth restriction.
Note of Thanks
As this story draws to a close, I pause—not to celebrate myself, but to honor every soul who has walked
with me, stood behind me, and lifted me forward when the path was uncertain. This journey has never
been mine alone. It has been a shared pilgrimage of spirit, sacrifice, support, and grace.
To my late father, Mr. Harish Kumar Mulji, whose values and blessings continue to guide me, and to my mother, Mrs. Ashok Kumari (Anita), whose prayers and faith have carried me through my toughest days. It is because of your discipline, your humility, and your unwavering faith that I have become the woman I am today. You taught me that success means nothing without compassion, and that strength without humility is incomplete. Everything I carry into the world, I carry from your hands.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude towards my closest friend Sandeep for his continued support and encouragement.
To my mentor, Susan Howard – Legendary Midwife, Robynne Hubbard – Legendary Midwife and Dr. Dipak Lahiri, thank you for seeing the leader in me long before I did. Your wisdom guided not just my practice, but my perspective. You reminded me that knowledge without integrity is shallow, and that leadership begins with service, not self.
To my colleagues at the Royal Women’s Hospital, and those I’ve worked with across Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia—you have been my daily teachers. In shared shifts, silent moments, and emergency calls, I found friendship, teamwork, and unbreakable bonds. Thank you for trusting me, challenging me, and holding space for my growth. and to my current home, Northern Health – Kilmore District Hospital, where I continue to serve with pride and purpose. Your environments have been instrumental in nurturing my growth as a midwife.
A special note of appreciation to Tania Nicholson, Midwifery Maternity Manager at Kilmore District Hospital, for her encouragement, leadership, and trust in my capabilities.
To the women and families I have served—thank you. For every laboring mother who looked into my eyes for strength. For every newborn whose first breath I witnessed. For every tear, every smile, every quiet “thank you”—please know that I carry your stories within me. You are the true authors of my purpose.
To the academics and public health professionals who inspired me to think beyond borders—thank you for expanding my understanding of care. Your work showed me that compassion must not only be personal, but also structural. It taught me that we can heal not only with hands, but with policy, vision, and advocacy.
Thanks
Dr. Artika Ben
To my late father, Mr. Harish Kumar Mulji, whose values and blessings continue to guide me, and to my mother, Mrs. Ashok Kumari (Anita), whose prayers and faith have carried me through my toughest days. It is because of your discipline, your humility, and your unwavering faith that I have become the woman I am today. You taught me that success means nothing without compassion, and that strength without humility is incomplete. Everything I carry into the world, I carry from your hands.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude towards my closest friend Sandeep for his continued support and encouragement.
To my mentor, Susan Howard – Legendary Midwife, Robynne Hubbard – Legendary Midwife and Dr. Dipak Lahiri, thank you for seeing the leader in me long before I did. Your wisdom guided not just my practice, but my perspective. You reminded me that knowledge without integrity is shallow, and that leadership begins with service, not self.
To my colleagues at the Royal Women’s Hospital, and those I’ve worked with across Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia—you have been my daily teachers. In shared shifts, silent moments, and emergency calls, I found friendship, teamwork, and unbreakable bonds. Thank you for trusting me, challenging me, and holding space for my growth. and to my current home, Northern Health – Kilmore District Hospital, where I continue to serve with pride and purpose. Your environments have been instrumental in nurturing my growth as a midwife.
A special note of appreciation to Tania Nicholson, Midwifery Maternity Manager at Kilmore District Hospital, for her encouragement, leadership, and trust in my capabilities.
To the women and families I have served—thank you. For every laboring mother who looked into my eyes for strength. For every newborn whose first breath I witnessed. For every tear, every smile, every quiet “thank you”—please know that I carry your stories within me. You are the true authors of my purpose.
To the academics and public health professionals who inspired me to think beyond borders—thank you for expanding my understanding of care. Your work showed me that compassion must not only be personal, but also structural. It taught me that we can heal not only with hands, but with policy, vision, and advocacy.
Thanks
Dr. Artika Ben