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Back in 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to book lodging when I arrived, yet upon reaching the city, a major event was happening and every single backpackers hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, I thought maybe I could bed down in the terminal – but soon learned the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate 24 hours. Unsure of quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on public transport and started wandering towards a gaming venue, reasoning it was a place to spend the evening in an establishment that was open all night. Admittedly, this plan at my peak for acing the admissions interview the following day, however, being a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

Our society requires more individuals who show such kindness.

It seems I seemed out of place because a young woman noticed me loitering in the city and asked if I was OK. I shared my predicament and without hesitation she suggested I was welcome to sleep on a spare mattress of her dormitory at the local university – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my interview was scheduled for the next day. She even offered some food: a leftover stuffed baguettes she brought back her work shift. I was able to use warm shower facilities and a protected spot to rest for the evening.

With hindsight, I can appreciate the enormous leap of faith she took as a woman allowing a male stranger she’d just met stay in her room. In those days I was in a bubble of male privilege and did not consider to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she took that chance – yet very grateful.

I didn’t end up study at that university, and I didn’t meet that kind stranger again, but I’ve never forgotten that incredible gesture of generosity. I hope karma has rewarded her generosity tenfold. The world needs more individuals like that woman.