I started my nursing career on a medical ward, and after a year, worked on an oncology/ haematology ward which I loved. I worked there for 9 years and then became a Haematology Specialist Nurse. I moved to London in 2014 to take up a Head of Nursing role in cancer at St George’s, before becoming a Matron at University College London Hospital (UCLH). Throughout my career I have helped lots of colleagues to progress. ‘Lift as you climb’ is my philosophy which I achieve by encouraging people from a diverse background to apply for opportunities. Some of my past accomplishments include being the founding member and Chair of the UCLH BAME Network for almost 400 members. I joined The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust as a Divisional Nurse Director in February 2020 and made a significant impact as a champion for equality and inclusion. In October 2020 I became a Director of Nursing (DON) (Professional Representation)/ Deputy Director (Nursing and AHP workforce) for NHSE/I (NW region), leading on International recruitment, the Professional Nurse Advocate Programme and inequalities in health. I have been an interim DON for Northern Care Alliance and currently Associate Director at the Royal College of Nursing.