An Oromo Australian mother of four from Melbourne has shown the world that humanity knows no language barrier—and that a single act of kindness can echo far beyond one hospital room.
The Call That Changed Everything
It was the end of a long shift. Muhuba, a cleaner at the Women’s Hospital in Melbourne, was heading home after another day of ensuring that rooms were sanitised and environments were safe for patients, families, and staff. She was tired. She was ready to return to her family.
Then her phone rang.
On the other end was a voice from the hospital, asking if she could help. A labouring patient had arrived alone. She was scared. She couldn’t speak English. And staff had just discovered that Muhuba spoke her language.
Muhuba didn’t hesitate. She turned around and came straight back.
“I just wanted to help,” she said.
Those few words—simple, unassuming—speak volumes about the kind of person she is.
Five Hours of Compassion
Muhuba was quickly given scrubs and rushed into the operating theatre. For the next five hours, she stayed by the patient’s side. She held her hand. She spoke to her in her own language. She calmed her fears.
She was not a midwife, a nurse, or a doctor. She was a cleaner—a “placemaker,” in the language of her employer, ISS. But in that moment, she was the only person who could truly communicate with a terrified mother about to bring a new life into the world.
The woman gave birth safely, comforted by the presence of someone who spoke her words, understood her heart, and gave her the dignity of being heard.
For that mother, Muhuba was more than a translator. She was comfort. She was courage. She was a familiar voice in a frightening moment. She became like family when the woman needed someone the most.
A Legacy of Kindness
Muhuba’s colleagues say she has always been known for her caring heart. For many years, she has helped people at her workplace, especially those who struggle with language barriers or need someone to stand with them during difficult moments. Her act was not a one-time gesture—it is a reflection of who she is.
As an Oromo Australian woman, Muhuba has made her family, her community, and her people proud. She has shown the world the beauty of kindness, respect, generosity, and humanity. She has demonstrated that compassion does not require a clinical degree—it requires a human heart.
Global Recognition
Last year, Muhuba’s extraordinary kindness was recognised with a state-wide award from ISS, the global facility services company that employs her. Her act of going above and beyond stood out as an example of the power of compassion in healthcare.
This year, her story has reached an even greater level. She has been named one of four international finalists in a global awards program. In May, ISS will fly her to Denmark for the awards ceremony, where she will represent Australia—and the Oromo community—on the international stage.
This is a proud moment for Muhuba, for her family, for the Oromo community in Australia, and for everyone who believes in the power of helping others.
A Message to Us All
Muhuba did not help because she wanted praise. She helped because her heart told her to help. That is what makes her story so powerful.
A mother of four, a hardworking Oromo Australian woman, and a symbol of compassion, Muhuba reminds us that one act of kindness can touch lives far beyond one hospital room. Her story is not only about an award. It is about kindness. It is about humanity. It is about standing beside someone when they are scared, alone, and in need of support.
“Aayyoo Muhuba, thank you for showing us the true meaning of humanity. Thank you for representing your family, your community, and your people with dignity. May Allah bless you, raise you higher, and give you a long life.”
Shabo Media proudly celebrates Muhuba—a beautiful example of kindness, compassion, and humanity. Muhuba’s family and the Oromo people are proudly celebrating her achievements.
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