After arriving in Australia as a young refugee, Dr Anei Ochan-Thou is now building a career in medicine as a first-year anaesthetic registrar at Austin Health. 

Born in Khartoum, Sudan, Anei came to Australia with his family when he was four. Starting again in a new country, with a different language and culture, was not easy. 

“I always wanted to do something in health, but I didn’t think medicine was something I could achieve,” Anei says. 

That changed in high school, when a teacher encouraged him to aim higher. 

“I remember being told to just give it a go. That stuck with me. It made me realise the worst that could happen was that I didn’t get in.” 

While proud to have made it into medicine, Anei says the experience was not always straightforward. 

“I remember walking into medical school and not seeing many people who looked like me or had a similar background. It could feel quite isolating at times. There were moments where you question whether you really belong, even when you’ve earned your place.” 

Now training in anaesthesia, one of the most competitive specialties, he says getting onto the program was a significant milestone. As far as we understand, he is also the first South Sudanese-Australian anaesthetic trainee. 

“It was a proud moment, not just because it’s competitive, but because of everything it took to get there.” 

Anei chose Austin Health for his registrar training after working here previously as a junior doctor. 

“I really enjoy being at Austin. The culture is supportive, and people genuinely want you to learn and do well. It feels like a team.” 

Alongside his clinical work, Anei is also focused on supporting others who may be considering a career in medicine. 

“I’ve been given opportunities along the way, and I think it’s important to leave the door open behind you. If someone sees me and it makes them feel like medicine is possible for them, then that means a lot. I didn’t always think it was possible for me.” 

Anei’s contribution has recently been recognised at the Amari Gala, where he received the Spotlight Award. The award recognises individuals excelling within their industries and acknowledges the impact they have made within their communities. 

We congratulate Anei on this recognition and the contribution he is making at Austin Health - like so many others, we're lucky to have him as part of our team!