Sophiah Munatsi

Name: Sophiah Munatsi

Qualification: Certificate in Dementia Care

“Whoever wants to study a Certificate in Dementia Care, the door is open at NZTC with a smile.”

These are the words of one of New Zealand Tertiary College’s first Certificate in Dementia Care students, Sophiah Munatsi.

An experienced healthcare assistant, Sophiah began her time at NZTC studying a New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Support) (Level 4). Impressed with the college’s support and online study options, she decided to further her study journey with a Certificate in Dementia Care.

“I chose to study with NZTC because of my past experience studying my Level 4. All the staff are brilliant. They help to mould, support and encourage you in any way they can so you can succeed,” she said.

Now nearing the end of her dementia care studies, Sophiah has already seen changes in her practice as she has become more observational and confident when interacting with her clients with dementia.

“This certificate has given me more courage, confidence, knowledge and passion in my work. It has made me a problem solver, a team player and more observant to different client behaviours,” she said.

“I feel more confident that I can handle any situation or behaviour, and do it in a way that will make my clients feel valued as a whole person and always feel at home.”

One of the most important things Sophiah has taken away from her studies is the communication skills to support dementia clients and their whānau. She says she now knows that “one question at a time makes for the perfect conversation”.

“When interacting with my clients I must always engage in one on one conversations in a quiet environment with minimum distractions,” said Sophiah.

“I must maintain eye contact, speak slowly and give the client plenty of time to respond. Offering reassurance and being patient makes the client feel valued and respected.”