Explore the inspiring journey of a nurse from Italy to Scotland, embodying resilience and passion.
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From Italy to Scotland: A journey of resilience and nursing passion
Gemmery Diamanti’s story is one of determination and adaptability. Arriving in Aberdeen at the age of 20, she initially planned to take a gap year to learn English before returning to her home in Italy. However, life had different plans for her. Now, at 31, she has graduated with a BSc in Adult Nursing from Robert Gordon University and is set to begin her career in the recovery unit at Aberdeen’s Maternity Unit.
Hailing from the picturesque town of Castiglione Del Lago in central Italy, Gemmery faced a significant cultural shift when she moved to Scotland. The harsh winters of northeast Scotland were a stark contrast to her hometown’s milder climate. Reflecting on her early days, she recalls, “I remember my first summer here. Everyone was in shorts, and I was wearing so many layers. But now, even in October, I’m just wearing a wee jumper, no jacket!” This adaptability highlights her resilience and willingness to embrace her new environment.
Upon her arrival, Gemmery had minimal English skills, knowing only basic greetings. Her first year was challenging, filled with uncertainty and fear. However, she quickly found a job at a local hotel, which became a pivotal moment in her language acquisition journey. “Everyone’s sleepy in the morning, so you didn’t have to speak much!” she humorously notes. Gemmery also utilized her love for movies to enhance her English, watching them repeatedly to grasp the language better.
After improving her language skills, Gemmery enrolled in North East College to study Sports Coaching & Development. However, the pandemic shifted her focus towards healthcare, leading her to work as a healthcare support worker. This experience ignited her passion for nursing, allowing her to combine her desire to help others with her professional aspirations. “Nursing would allow me to blend my passion for helping people with my professional aspirations,” she explains.
Gemmery’s journey took her to Shetland for a placement, where she fell in love with the community. Known as the ‘Italian nurse,’ she felt a deep connection with the close-knit islanders. “Wherever you went, everybody’s related to everyone,” she shares, reminiscing about the familiar faces she encountered in both the hospital and the supermarket. This sense of belonging was further enhanced by her involvement in sports at Robert Gordon University, where she played on the basketball and volleyball teams, eventually becoming captain.
As Gemmery prepares to start her nursing career at Aberdeen’s Maternity Hospital, she reflects on her journey with pride. Despite the challenges she faced, her determination and hard work have paid off. She acknowledges the beauty of Scotland but humorously suggests, “If Aberdeen had a summer, it would be the perfect location for everyone.” Gemmery’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of one’s dreams in a new land.
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