Francis's Story
Francis Roger Niilanteye Acquah AM (born October 17, 1957 – Zaria, Nigeria) Francis Acquah is a Psychiatric Nurse with over 35 years of experience across various healthcare settings. He is the Managing Director of Positive Mental Health Program Pty Ltd and has held roles such as Triage Nurse, Clinical Nurse Educator, and Community Educator. Acquah is a dedicated advocate for refugees and immigrants, particularly within the African community, and has actively contributed to raising awareness about mental health needs through forums, workshops, and educational initiatives.
Early Life and Education
Acquah was born in Zaria, Nigeria, to Joseph Quarshie Acquah and Emelia Ethel Adarku Hammond. He spent his formative years in Ghana, West Africa. He attended Presbyterian Secondary School (Presec) in Legon, Accra, Ghana.
In 1984, Acquah graduated as a Registered Psychiatric Nurse from West Park Hospital, United Kingdom. He continued his education by earning the Graduate Diploma of Applied Science in Human Services Research (Monitoring and Evaluation) from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in 1991. In 1995, he obtained his Bachelor of Education from La Trobe University, Faculty of Social Science. Acquah commenced his Master of Health Science at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in 1997, which he deferred to 1998.
Career
Acquah started his professional journey at the University College Hospital, United Kingdom, serving as a State Enrolled Nurse (General). By March 1981, he advanced to the position of Graduate Enrolled Nurse (General) within the same institution. In 1984, he transitioned to Princess Grace Private Hospital, where he worked as an Agency Nurse.
In November 1986, Acquah transitioned to the Rehabilitation Unit at Larundel Hospital. There, he provided care for chronically disturbed patients within a secured ward setting. Subsequently, he assumed the role of Central Sterile Department Coordinator, overseeing the care of patients undergoing electroconvulsive therapy, as well as general nursing and emergency duties. Additionally, Acquah served as a Ward Nurse in the Professional Unit, specializing in the treatment of patients with psychiatric conditions. Throughout his tenure at Larundel Hospital, he also engaged in various other hospital departments while ensuring his knowledge of psychiatric nursing practices remained current.
Acquah assumed higher responsibilities at Larundel Hospital’s Professional Unit on September 20, 1987, taking on the role of Deputy Charge Nurse. In this capacity, he oversaw the comprehensive assessment and care of patients grappling with psychiatric and emotional challenges. He actively participated in the facilitation and execution of scientific research initiatives, including drug trials, rating scales, and other diagnostic tests. Additionally, Acquah managed night duties for three months, overseeing the Acute Admission Unit, followed by a two-month stint on day duties in the Early Treatment Unit.
Personal Life
Acquah stays updated on the legal aspects of Nursing Care, including the Mental Health Act of 1986 and its subsequent amendments. He also ensures he stays abreast of clinical advancements by regularly perusing nursing journals, and relevant literature, and attending seminars.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Acquah actively participates in African cultural activities such as drumming and dancing. He is a founding member of the Akwaaba Cultural group, which promotes cultural exchange and welcomes diversity.
Outside of work, Acquah is deeply involved in the community, particularly in sports. He has been an active member of Little Athletics, serving on Management Committees and holding the position of President at the Epping Little Athletics Club for seasons 1996/97 & 1997/98. Acquah has also coached in little athletics and has achieved numerous medals at Regional and State levels. Furthermore, he served as the Team attaché for the Ghana Team during the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games.
Acquah resides in Epping, Australia, with his wife, Ursula Constantia Mills-Acquah. The couple shares three children: Ebony Naa Odarley Acquah, Akwele Carnithia Acquah, and Akuorkor Athanatia Acquah.
Awards and Recognition
- Fellow of the Australian College of Mental Health Nurses, 2014
- Awarded Honorary Doctorate Degree - Doctor of Science (D.Sc) Honoris Causa by the Commonwealth University 2017
- Appointed Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division, 2024 - For Significant Service To Mental Healthcare, and to the Community
- Community Health Ambassador, Global Goodwill Ambassadors Humanitarian, since 2019
- President, Mental Health and Well-Being Foundation, since 2013
- Board Member, African Australia Community Leadership Forum, since 2016
- Rotary Club of Greensborough President, 2014-2016. • Member, current.
- Executive Director, Positive Wellness Recovery Centre, since 2019.
