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Back in 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I figured I would book a place to stay upon arrival, however once I got there, a major event was in town and every single budget hostels and affordable lodging had no vacancies.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind perhaps I could bed down in the airport – but soon learned Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate all night. With no idea how to proceed and getting a bit desperate, I boarded a city-bound bus and started wandering towards a gaming venue, thinking I might spend the night somewhere operating 24/7. That wouldn’t put me in the ideal condition to succeed at a crucial interview the next day, yet, as a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

Our society requires more individuals like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared confused as a young woman spotted me wandering around downtown and wondered whether I needed help. I recounted my situation and immediately she offered I could crash on a spare mattress in her student dorm at ANU – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided some food: a leftover sandwiches she had taken home her work shift. I had access to the bathroom and a protected spot and safe to spend the night.

With hindsight, I can appreciate the significant risk she undertook as a woman inviting a male stranger who was a complete stranger crash at her place. Back then I was in a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking about things like that. As a dad now, I’m amazed she offered that help – but still incredibly thankful.

I didn’t end up attending that university, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of generosity. I hope the universe has repaid her generosity abundantly. The world needs more people like that woman.