Melissa Njoku has a background in clinical Intensive Care Unit nursing, quality improvement, and healthcare education. As a lecturer at Monash University, she supports shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals, coordinating an undergraduate clinical nursing unit and teaching into the post-graduate ICU nursing course.

Beyond her academic role, Melissa is committed to making a positive impact on both local and international communities. She is a member of the ACCCN’s Global Health Advisory Panel and an executive committee member of ANZICS Global Intensive Care Initiative. Melissa volunteers in health education programs that take her to various countries, where she provides essential training to healthcare workers and supports the development of sustainable healthcare practices and education and training. Melissa also mentors multidisciplinary healthcare students during collaborative in-country health immersion initiatives, helping them gain valuable experience in global health settings and inspiring them to contribute to health equity and social justice. Locally, Melissa volunteers in community groups including the African Music and Cultural Festival and organisations that support young people facing homelessness and children in out-of-home-care.

Throughout her career Melissa has won multiple awards at the health services and Universities she has worked and studied, including highest achieving student and clinical excellence and leadership in post graduate nursing. Melissa has completed a Masters of Nursing (ICU) with a focus on research and is pursuing a dual Master's degree in Global Health and Public Health.