Jacoba (Kobie) joined the NICU team in 2006. She is an exemplary nurse who is held in the highest esteem by all her colleagues. She has innumerable qualities as a transformational leader and clinician who leads by example. She is dedicated, compassionate, trustworthy, supportive and approachable. Above all, she demonstrates the highest standards of care and expects the same professionalism and dedication of those who work with her. She treats all her co-workers with respect, and has clear understanding and knowledge of the culture within KSA.

Last year, Kobie was elected Chair of the Infection Control Committee. Among the many projects the Team is undergoing, Kobie has led an interdisciplinary approach to CLABSI and has been instrumental in implementing a strategy which has included bedside hand off, audit, in service training and workshops and the mentoring and support of new staff. At all times, she demonstrates integrity and high quality service, ensuring that the focus remains on the needs of the patient.

Her dedication to excellence truly inspires everyone around her to succeed and reach for a higher standard. She has set achievable and realistic expectations for her team, building on each success until the ultimate goal of 365 days CLABSI was met. On reaching this target, she continues to encourage staff to maintain change, empowering them to work independently and explore new ideas. This positively impacts on the patients they care for and increases staff morale.

Kobie expects, encourages and inspires her Team to provide superior quality care to each and every patient. She shares her time willingly and works endless hours, giving her all every day, to make our department the best it can be. No job is too small for her. She strongly shares the vision and values of Nursing within our Organization.

Kobie seeks no personal reward for her dedication and hard work. This is apparent in all she does and in the way she has enriched the experiences of those around her. She is involved in many other unit activities and supports staff professionally and personally, always taking time to listen and reassure. She is always available as a resource to new staff and is keen to ensure new employees are included in future planning initiatives. During her time on NICU, she has served as UBC Chair and is always involved in organizing and planning the annual NICU Nurses Recognition Day.

The staff of NICU are proud of Kobie and the way in which she tirelessly serves as a role model for both the unit and the organization.