For Anointing Julius Chukwugozirim, BNSc, RN, RM, RPHN, nursing wasn’t always the dream. “I just wanted to be in healthcare,” he says.
He moved from arts to science in secondary school after his late aunt, a nurse, encouraged him to challenge himself. He initially applied to study Medicine but was offered Industrial Chemistry instead.
When the opportunity to switch courses came at Trinity University, he had to choose between Nursing and Medical Laboratory Science. Despite Nursing not yet being accredited at the time, he followed his instinct.
“I chose Nursing, even though I didn’t fully understand what it was about,” he recalls. “I started connecting with nurses and students on Instagram and LinkedIn. That’s how I found NUNSA and later helped my school join the association.”
The Discipline Behind Distinction
Finishing with a First Class (4.65/5.00) wasn’t luck — it was structure and self-awareness.
“I can’t study at night,” Anointing says. “I study early in the morning or during the day. I transcribe slides into flashcards, focus on key points, and never do overnight reading because it doesn’t work for me.”
His learning style is audio-visual. Watching videos and discussing topics ahead of lectures helped him stay engaged.
“I always went to class with some prior knowledge. That way, I could interact better with lecturers and even argue ideas. Teaching others helped me retain what I learned.”
His advice to students: “Find your system. What works for others might not work for you.”
Turning Loss into Legacy
Anointing’s journey is deeply shaped by personal tragedy — the loss of his mother.
“I watched her deteriorate in health and became her primary caregiver,” he shares. “I learned medication timing and bedside care the hard way. But it also taught me how vital proper patient education is.”
That experience inspired his final year project:
“Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice in Preventing Chronic Kidney Disease among Diabetics.”
He explains, “CKD is preventable, but my mother didn’t have enough health education. It made me realize how much difference awareness can make.”
This loss later inspired his community-based initiative, Correct Health Initiative, focused on health education and preventive care.
Leadership and Lessons from NUNSA
As President of NUNSA Trinity University Chapter (2024/2025), Anointing describes leadership as both humbling and transformative.
“During my first campaign for Vice President, I lost. It taught me to serve before expecting support. I started giving more to my community — and that’s how I built genuine trust.”
He credits his Vice President, Sophia Ajala, for teaching him patience.
“I learned that everything doesn’t have to be perfect. Just make it work with what you have — but make it work well.”
Leadership also brought moments of criticism. “As President, I was insulted sometimes,” he admits. “But it made me accountable, respectful, and more mature.”
The Best in Orthopedic Nursing
Winning Best Student in Orthopedic Nursing came as a surprise.
“I didn’t expect it. I just did my best during postings, connected with patients, and made sure they got proper care.”
To him, true excellence isn’t about awards — it’s about impact.
“Excellence in nursing means value, not just grades. It’s about impact — on patients, colleagues, and the profession itself.”
Staying Grounded and Focused
His motivation comes from ambition — and honesty.
“I remind myself of the end goal. I want to grow every day and become a better version of myself,” he says.
He balances ambition with rest. “Know when to pause, reset, and protect your mental health.”
The Road Ahead
Now officially inducted, Anointing is focused on finding a nurturing internship placement where he can learn and grow.
He also plans to merge his love for art with healthcare awareness — using creativity to educate communities on physical and mental health.
Long-term, he hopes to pursue an MBA or a Master’s in Public Health or Nurse Anesthetics, blending healthcare, business, and leadership.
“I want to explore health tech and entrepreneurship. The goal is to make healthcare more efficient and accessible.”
A Message to Nursing Students
“Have clear goals and systems that work for you,” he says.
“Understand that growth takes time. Start strong, stay consistent, and finish well.”
He adds, “Nursing is bigger than the bedside. Be curious, innovative, and confident. Network with others, stay hungry for greatness, and build relationships that help you grow.”
Final Thoughts
Anointing Julius’s story reflects what nursing excellence truly means — discipline, empathy, resilience, and leadership.
From personal loss to professional triumph, his journey is a reminder that nursing is not just a career but a calling to heal, lead, and inspire.
Fellow Nurses Africa is the independent voice of African nursing. We educate, inform and support nurses across Africa.
