Priscilla Nzounhenda

What first drew you to a role in the NHS?

I began my nursing career in the private sector, but soon realised that money isn't everything. The 2017 Thriving at work report by Stevenson and Farmer caught my attention and led me to join the NHS. The report focuses on how employers can better support the mental health of all employees, including those with mental health challenges or poor well-being, to help them remain in and thrive through work. I strongly believe that when staff members have a positive experience, it directly affects the quality of care that patients receive. It's true that happy staff leads to happy patients.

What does this year’s Black History Month theme of Saluting our Sisters bring to mind for you, in relation to the NHS?

Michelle Obama once said: “There is an age-old maxim in the black community: you’ve got to be twice as good to get half as far.” Despite being a black woman, I am proud of my journey as I had the privilege of being mentored by people who saw my potential instead of the colour of my skin.

This year's theme of ‘Saluting our Sisters’ provides a chance to acknowledge and celebrate the vital role that Black women have played and continue to play in healthcare. Whether as nurses, doctors, administrators or researchers, Black women have made significant contributions to the NHS and have been leaders in healthcare provision and innovation. It's time to level the playing field, eliminate false equity and diversity, and create equal opportunities without Black women having to ‘work twice as hard’.

What advice would you give others aspiring to an NHS role similar to your own?

If you aspire to make a difference within the NHS or any workplace, here are a few pieces of advice:

• Educate yourself: take the time to learn about the experiences, contributions, and challenges faced by individuals from diverse backgrounds. Understanding different perspectives and histories is crucial for creating an inclusive environment.
• Speak up and support others: if you witness bias, prejudice, or racism within the workplace, speak up against it in a respectful and constructive manner. Support your colleagues who may be facing such challenges and encourage an open dialogue.
• Get involved: engage with diversity and inclusion initiatives within your workplace. Join employee resource groups or volunteer for projects aimed at promoting diversity and equality. By actively participating, you can help drive positive change.
• Be an ally: show support and solidarity for marginalised individuals or groups. Use your privilege and influence to amplify their voices and advocate for equal opportunities and fair treatment.
• Continuous learning: keep educating yourself about issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Stay informed about best practices, policies, and strategies for creating an inclusive workplace. This ongoing learning will help you be an effective advocate for positive change.

Remember, creating an inclusive and equitable workplace is a collective effort, and everyone can play a role in promoting diversity and equality.

What would be your message to NHS leaders on their role in tackling racism in the service?

Talk is cheap, it is time to see more action and less talking. We desperately need to see leaders demonstrating bravery by openly acknowledging, accepting, and naming that racism and discrimination is rampant within the NHS. We want to see a genuine interest to develop a better workforce culture through various initiatives. We hope leaders will stay committed to their effort so that the gains are shared across all groups.