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Back in 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I assumed to arrange a place to stay upon arrival, yet when I arrived, a major event was in town and every single backpackers hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I thought the possibility of bed down in the terminal – but quickly found Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, closes around the clock. Not knowing quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I caught a bus into town and began walking towards the casino, reasoning I might spend those hours in an establishment that was open 24/7. Admittedly, this plan in the ideal condition to succeed at the admissions interview the following day, however, being a broke student, I couldn’t afford.

Our society requires more individuals with such compassion.

It seems I seemed confused as a woman saw me wandering around downtown and inquired if everything was alright. I explained my predicament and immediately she suggested I could sleep on a spare mattress in her student dorm at ANU – which was perfect, as that’s where the important interview was the following day. She went further by offering some food: one stuffed baguettes she had from her part-time job. I had access to the bathroom and somewhere safe and secure to spend the night.

With hindsight, it’s clear to me the significant risk she took being a woman letting a male stranger she had only just encountered crash at her place. At that time I operated under my own unawareness and was oblivious about things like that. Now, as a father, it astounds me she offered that help – yet very grateful.

Ultimately, I did not study at the Australian National University, and I never saw her again, but I’ve never forgotten her selfless deed of human compassion. I hope karma has returned her good deed tenfold. The world needs more individuals who show such kindness.