An inspired leap

A former polytechnic lecturer, Joshua Liew’s pivot into nursing led not only to a new career, but also a renewed sense of purpose that would shape both his professional path and family life.

When their shifts align, Nurses Joshua Liew and his daughter Ophelia Liew exchange insights about nursing. (Photo: Vernon Wong; SingHealth)

Mr Joshua Liew’s unconventional route to nursing began much later in life — at the age of 50 — inspired by his daughter’s pursuit of the same profession.

After seven years as an engineer and 15 years as a polytechnic lecturer, Mr Liew’s chance to pursue his dream in the healthcare field came while he was researching on nursing as a career. He found a career conversion programme offered by the National University of Singapore and MOH Holdings and seized the opportunity to reshape his future.

Although the transition came with concerns about returning to study and the impact on his family, Mr Liew bravely took the leap. “I realised that the opportunity to pursue something I love would ultimately outweigh any challenge,”  shared Mr Liew, who is now a Staff Nurse at Changi General Hospital.

Starting over was intimidating, but Mr Liew’s extensive experience in education had equipped him with the knowledge, discipline and analytical thinking to complement his clinical training, allowing him to approach patient care with precision and empathy. Currently, he works alongside his daughter, Ophelia, who is also a Staff Nurse at CGH. This has deepened their connection not only as family, but also as fellow nurses navigating the unique challenges of frontline care.

“One of the joys of my nursing journey has been traversing it with my daughter,” said Mr Liew. “As study buddies, we would quiz each other on pharmacology. Now, our conversations revolve around patient care and the meaningful work we do each day.”

Similarly, Ophelia describes their bond as one rooted in shared purpose and mutual respect. “It feels like having a best friend who understands everything I go through,” she said.

From the new ‘kid’ in the ward four years ago, Mr Liew has grown into his current role as a preceptor at the wards, coaching and mentoring the next generation of nurses.

As Mr Liew guides new nurses, he always poses them a crucial question: “What is one reason you joined nursing?”

From the desire to make a tangible difference in an individual’s recovery to a profound sense of purpose and even family influence and legacy, these drivers serve as their anchor. While the work can be stressful and daunting at times, he believes their anchor will keep them grounded.

As for Mr Liew, the memory of hospital nurses caring for his parents, grandparents and Ophelia, who experienced significant illness as a child, frequently reminds him of the profound impact of nursing and his purpose in life.