When I decided to complete a Bachelor of Health Science in paramedicine and become a paramedic, I wanted to make a difference, but having spent much of my adult life in banking and in finance, I quickly saw that the system wasn't working. To deliver change, real change, I'd have to apply all of my skills and experience to the challenge. I set my sights on pushing the health system from within. I became the deputy chief financial officer for one of the country's largest district health boards while still volunteering on the ambulance after hours. Working simultaneously at both ends of the system opened my eyes to the importance of a bold vision, coordinated approach, and action, not talk. Health and education can't be siloed from our country's economic performance, our strategy for affordable housing, or the importance of providing a self-worth for our citizens. It's all linked, and these challenges need action to sort out not only just the symptoms but the root cause of these issues.