Sierra Leonean Nurse Emerges as a Healthcare Leader Through Mercy Ships Mentorship Program

A childhood tragedy turned into a lifelong mission for Sierra Leonean nurse Betty Koker, whose leadership and compassion are now transforming healthcare delivery at Connaught Hospital in Freetown. 

Her journey, marked by resilience and mentorship, underscores the transformative power of Mercy Ships’ training programs in strengthening local healthcare systems.

Betty’s decision to become a nurse was born from personal loss — the death of her mother during childbirth, an incident her family attributes to medical negligence. “I decided to become a nurse so that I can help people, especially children, not to become orphans,” she said.

After graduating from the University of Sierra Leone’s College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS) in 2016, Betty volunteered her services at Connaught Hospital, the country’s largest public hospital. 

Her passion and dedication caught the attention of Mercy Ships, an international NGO operating the world’s largest civilian hospital ships.

Through Mercy Ships’ Education, Training, and Advocacy (ETA) program, Betty was paired with experienced UK nurse Katie Henderson. The mentorship introduced her to international clinical standards like A-to-E and neurovascular assessments, enabling her to respond to patients’ needs more effectively.

“Katie’s leadership taught me consistency and dedication,” said Betty. “She always shows up on time and with compassion. That motivated us to do better.”

Betty’s training expanded aboard the Global Mercy™, where she engaged in orthopedic care and emergency simulations. These immersive experiences gave her the confidence to apply advanced skills back home in a resource-limited setting. 

“It teaches us to improvise where there are no resources — and that love and compassion don’t require payment,” she reflected.

Today, Betty continues to lead by example, empowering her colleagues and improving patient outcomes at Connaught Hospital. She believes Mercy Ships’ impact will have lasting effects: “They are not here to make us dependent. They are here to help us build.”

The international community is encouraged to support this impactful work by learning more and donating through Mercy Ships’ platform: https://apo-opa.co/4j6jxKz.