I’ve always wanted to go into nursing. I completed three years at the School of Nursing in Nigeria, which is the equivalent to a diploma, before moving to the UK and studying my Bachelors in Nursing at the University of Derby. I’ve recently finished my degree and awaiting my results! I’ve also recently been promoted to a Band 6 Nurse after joining the Trust in June 2023 as a Band 5 so it’s a really exciting time!

I was inspired to go into oncology nursing specifically as my mum had cancer and unfortunately passed away in 2022. It drove me to learn about oncology and broaden my knowledge so I could help others have a more positive experience. I’m really passionate about early detection and empowering patients and their families.

With oncology nursing, you get the honour of going through this journey with patients and being there for them during a difficult time. When you get to see them ring the bell at the end of their treatment, it’s amazing.

I’ve felt supported since joining Clatterbridge. I’m part of the Ethnic Diversity Network, a network that provides a space to understand cultural diversities within the Trust.

It’s important that we’re having discussions about the way forward in nursing when it comes to learning and development for international nurses and minorities.

It’s important that Black History Month is celebrated in the workplace so discussions are started around how we’re feeling, how we are included, do we feel valued, what does our cultural background mean, what needs to be known about black culture, what the experience of leaving black culture for white culture is like.

And it’s important that we as a Trust are encouraging applicants from all cultural backgrounds to apply for roles, giving minority groups the opportunity to progress and be more involved. Put us in managerial positions, champion inclusion, and have others see representation of their culture in these careers.

I never want to stop progressing in my career. I love learning and education and looking forwards, want to do a Masters in Advanced Clinical Nursing or Oncology Care before progressing to a PhD.