12/05/2026
I chose midwifery to be a steady presence during challenging moments and to support women through both fear and joy. Today, Bertha Reinhold is a Registered Nurse at Mediclinic Windhoek in Namibia because of a singular moment that led to her choosing midwifery while she was still a student. “I chose midwifery nursing because of a deeply touching experience during my student training. I cared for a woman who was in prolonged labour, and I stayed by her side, supporting her through the pain, fear, and exhaustion. I offered comfort, reassurance, and encouragement throughout her journey. At one point, she asked if I could extend my shift so I could continue caring for her. That moment truly moved me; it made me realise how much my presence and compassion meant to her during such a vulnerable time. I felt honoured that she trusted me and found strength in my care.” Bertha is now a Unit Manager and midwife with a Postgraduate Diploma in Comprehensive Nursing and Midwifery Science, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing Education. “That experience stayed with me. It opened my heart even more to the importance of being there for women, not just physically but emotionally. It confirmed that midwifery is not just a profession for me, but a calling, to support, comfort, and stand with women as they bring new life into the world.” Bertha’s success as a midwife is defined by her ability to combine the skills that make her an expert in her field with the knowledge that every woman in labour deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. “Success also includes a woman who feels heard, supported, and confident in her experience. It feels like professional pride, knowing that I have used my knowledge, leadership, and empathy to make a positive difference, not only at the bedside but within the team I work with,” Bertha adds. In her view, supporting new moms is about thinking beyond the physical care that they need; it’s also about making sure that mothers feel supported emotionally. By prioritising education and communication, she realised that this makes the entire process a lot less daunting. A philosophy that she’s passed on to her team. “Emotionally, I support mothers by listening carefully, offering reassurance, and giving health education regarding their condition by explaining each step of care clearly. I encourage them, involve them in decision-making, and remain present during moments of fear, pain, or uncertainty. As a Unit Manager, I also ensure my team upholds these standards consistently.” In the fast-paced environment of maternity care, Bertha believes urgency and empathy must work together. “During emergencies, you need to be calm and decisive,” she explains. “But at the same time, you must communicate clearly and respectfully, so the patient feels reassured and supported.” She also emphasises the importance of involving birth partners, creating a supportive and familiar environment for mothers during labour. Looking ahead, Bertha is optimistic about the future of maternity care in Namibia. “I look forward to strengthening multidisciplinary teamwork, mentoring younger midwives, and implementing practices that support both clinical excellence and community development in maternal and neonatal care.”
