The Inspiring Journey of Dr. Jasmina Kevric: A Beacon of Hope for Refugees
Dr. Jasmina Kevric is not just a breast cancer specialist at Melbourne’s Cabrini Hospital; she embodies the resilience and spirit of those who, like her, have faced immense challenges. At 39, her life has come full circle—from being a refugee in Bosnia to becoming a skilled surgeon dedicated to her community.
A Childhood Marked by Conflict
Dr. Kevric’s story begins in Brčko, Bosnia and Herzegovina, where her childhood was overshadowed by the specter of war. In 1992, when she was just a young child, the calm of their lives was shattered by the outbreak of conflict. She recalls the moment the war began, vividly recounting the sound of a missile striking nearby. “No one anticipated a civil war in the middle of Europe,” she notes, an echo of disbelief that resonates with many whose lives have been turned upside down by unexpected violence.
Fleeing to the town of Bihać, where her grandparents lived, the family sought refuge. Yet, safety was elusive. The once-peaceful farm became the backdrop of horror when they were struck by a missile. Dr. Kevric recalls the moment as surreal: witnessing first responders attempting to revive her injured family, she resolved in her heart that she would one day provide similar aid to those in need.
A New Life in Australia
After spending four years in Germany, Dr. Kevric arrived in Australia as a teenager. Learning English became her first challenge, one that she approached with determination and an eagerness to embrace her new culture. "I was absolutely hungry to learn," she shares. Despite the language barrier and a gap in her education, she excelled, eventually earning a scholarship to study medicine at the University of Melbourne.
Dr. Kevric’s journey to becoming a breast cancer surgeon was both arduous and rewarding. Today, she uses her own experiences to fuel her passion for medicine, knowing firsthand the importance of access to healthcare.
Barriers Faced by Refugees
Dr. Kevric’s success story contrasts sharply with the struggles many refugees experience. A recent report by the Australian Institute of Family Studies highlights a troubling phenomenon known as "occupational downgrading." Many refugees and humanitarian migrants are unable to secure jobs that match their qualifications or prior experience even after years in Australia. John van Kooy, the report’s lead author, emphasizes the challenges faced by skilled migrants, especially women with young children, who are significantly less likely to find employment.
For Dr. Kevric, these barriers are not just statistics; they reflect the experiences of those she serves. Her work at the Cabrini Asylum Seeker and Refugee Health Hub in Northcote allows her to support and understand the unique challenges faced by her patients.
Compassionate Care for Refugees
At the Cabrini Health Hub, Dr. Kevric is committed to providing much-needed healthcare to refugees and asylum seekers. She recalls her own struggles navigating a new culture and language, which shapes her empathy for her patients. She highlights the essential nature of understanding emotional and cultural contexts in healthcare, especially for those who may not have access to mainstream services.
Professor Suresh Sundram, the hub’s clinical director, underscores the importance of Dr. Kevric’s unique insights. Having firsthand experience of the refugee journey, she approaches patient care with an understanding of the complexities associated with trauma and mental health issues. "Those with a refugee background manage and deal with the sorts of complexities that asylum seekers and refugees present more sensitively," Professor Sundram explains.
Empowering the Next Generation
Dr. Kevric also recognizes the potential within the refugee community. She advocates for viewing refugees not merely as beneficiaries of aid but as future contributors to society. "I hope the people of Australia see refugees as those who lost a lot in their lives and remind everyone of the potential they bring to this country," she expresses passionately.
As a mother with a young daughter, she aspires to foster a safe and nurturing environment for future generations, hoping that they will thrive and contribute positively to Australia’s diverse fabric.
A Legacy of Care
For Dr. Kevric, reaching her career goals is not just a personal achievement, but a platform to uplift others. Working within the Cabrini global health network—a legacy founded in humanitarian spirit—she continues to impact countless lives, emphasizing the importance of accessible healthcare for those in need.
Her remarkable journey from a war-torn childhood to becoming a respected surgeon serves not just as an inspiration but as a call to action. Dr. Kevric embodies resilience, proving that with the right support and opportunities, anyone can overcome their circumstances and become a beacon of hope for others.
