The 31-year-old medical laboratory scientist is off to Africa next year to work for the charity Mercy Ships.

Mercy Ships is a global charity that has operated hospital ships in developing nations since 1978.

Miss Thompson currently works at Port Macquarie Base Hospital in the pathology lab.

"I have been so fortunate to be born in this country where we have an excellent health care system," she said.

"I have a good education and the skills now to help other people."

Miss Thompson has always loved to travel.

"I think it will be an amazing opportunity to live in Africa and experience the Senagalese culture," she said.

Her ship will be docked at Senegal for 10 months with her placement for 10 weeks.

"During my time on the ship I will be working as a scientist in the laboratory, processing blood and other biological specimens to assist in the diagnosis and monitoring of patients, as well as giving life-saving blood transfusions," Miss Thompson said.

She is particularly excited to be working with different parasites.

"Parasites are really interesting, they have amazing life cycles and are really cool to look at under the microscope," she said.

Mercy Ship volunteers are also involved in training and mentoring local health professionals and improving health care infrastructure.

Volunteers have to pay for their own costs including airfares and monthly crew fees.

To help Sally get to Africa donate here.