Tell us about yourself and your career aspirations growing up? I am from the Philippines, and nursing has always been my passion. My aunt, who lives in New York was a nurse, which inspired me to take the same career journey. I like to see people get better and reunite with their families. The smile on their face is rewarding.
What was your career route to the role you have today?
I joined the Trust in 2001 as a band 3 adaptation nurse, passed my preceptorship, and gained knowledge and skills experience that helped me progress in my career. I've worked in different clinical areas, including a contingency ward that was not easy but helped me develop my leadership and resilience. From staff nurse, I progressed to deputy manager. I have also worked as a chemotherapy nurse specialist, was offered a job as an ENP, and became ward manager April 2015 in one of the biggest and busiest wards.
In 2021, I became the lead nurse for NMAHP international recruitment and, in 2022, the NMAHP matron for international recruitment. I have also worked as a clinical fellow for Stay and Thriving International Retention, NHSE North East and Yorkshire.
Do you have any advice for people with East and South East Asian Heritage who may want to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering or math's?
Career advancement for people from East and South East Asia can be challenging, but not impossible. I always use CPR as a reminder: it takes courage to face your fear to achieve your goal. Be persistent; it took me three attempts to become deputy ward manager; three attempts to become a matron; it took me 20 years to become band 8A; and finally, resilience; rest if you must; cry if you failed your interview; that is called emotion; but after that, stand up, fix that crown, and start again.
How has your heritage influenced your career?
As Filipinos, we always find humour and positivity, even when life is difficult. Filipinos are hard working and well disciplined. We are born with the generosity. We are generous of our time, talent, and treasure. I grew up with these values in my family; these Filipino values helped me reach for my star. And I pray. When I am happy or sad, I pray. Filipinos are religious. Since I now have something to contribute, I have been assisting others in advancing their careers, a process I refer to as "Lift as I go up.
Do you feel supported in your role?
Yes, some people embrace me for my uniqueness, but not everyone else does. I had an exciting roller coaster career progression journey. I couldn't do it without the generous individual support. For those who have always supported me and truly celebrated my success, thank you. If given the chance, I would like to see executive leaders support the promotion of highly skilled
and talented employees from the global majority to senior positions. Find the talent that will benefit the future workforce. Let’s be an example of inclusive equitable #NextGenWorkforce.
Do you have a message for East and South East Asian Heritage Month?
In honour of #ESEA individuals like me, I reached out to the NHS employers' calendar campaigns to ask why they are highlighting South Asian Heritage and Black History Month, but not #ESEA
Heritage. I was told that they would update their website to demonstrate inclusivity and promote the ESEA heritage event. This year, as WREN chair, I organised the #ESEA celebration in
our trust. I am proud to say this year, I contributed to the raise the profile of #ESEA Heritage like me.
What does This year's theme is "Changing Seasons" mean to you?
Changing seasons means that for a new beginning to start, a previous chapter must end. Though it may be too hot or cold, every season has its own beauty. I must find it. This is the season of embracing someone’s unique culture. ESEA heritage is rich and colourful, just like the four seasons. Personally, I believe that for other cultures to comprehend my own, I must assist them through education. To advance in my career, I must take immediate action. I must continue to set an example for others to follow.
Tell us about yourself and your career aspirations growing up?
Growing up, I always had a passion for teaching, as my mother and aunt were both teachers. Since I don't like to be left alone and the only one who will be doing education courses, as I have entered university, I chose nursing as this was the course my best friend took. I learnt to love the course and develop my passion in nursing when I started my degree and started doing clinical shift.
What was your career route to the role you have today?
After becoming a UKRN, I got more experience by working on several wards, including the geriatric, respiratory, medical, and gastro wards. This helped me increase my knowledge and abilities. I currently work as a GI nurse coordinator and recently completed my cancer nursing internship. I took advantage of this learning opportunity, which our trust funded, as I want to advance professionally as a clinical nurse specialist. I am enthusiastic to advance my profession and broaden my knowledge in the field of nursing. I am grateful for the chances that have led me to this stage in my career path.
Do you have any advice for people with East and South East Asian heritage who may want to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, or math?
Representation and diversity in STEM fields are crucial for innovation and progress. I would encourage individuals from East and South East Asian Heritage to seek mentorship, networking opportunities, and support systems to navigate any challenges they may face in pursuing careers in these fields. By seeking out role models and mentors who share similar backgrounds, individuals can gain valuable insights and guidance on how to succeed in STEM fields. Additionally, joining professional organisations and attending conferences can provide opportunities to connect with others in the industry and build a strong support system.
How has your heritage influenced your career?
As a Filipino nurse , I have found strength and inspiration in the resilience and compassion ingrained in my culture. My heritage has shaped my approach to patient care and has motivated me to continuously strive for excellence in my field.
Is there a person from your cultural group or background who has inspired you?
There is no one person, but the Filipino nurses who have worked at our trust have inspired me to achieve more and flourish in my current position. I have had assistance from our Filipino nursing leaders in our trust, and I am grateful for all of it. Their passion and expertise have encouraged me to preserve our culture's ideals in my own work. I am grateful for their assistance and encouragement as I advance in my career.
Do you feel supported in your role?
Yes, I feel supported in my position. However, I need to seek greater possibilities to advance professionally and further my career. I am not restricting myself to my current job; instead, I am actively finding methods to improve my skills and expand my knowledge in this field. I believe that ongoing learning and development are critical for long-term success in any job.
What changes would you like to see to make our organisation more inclusive?
I would like to see more diversity in leadership positions and a stronger emphasis on promoting inclusivity in our workplace culture. Additionally, implementing training programs on unconscious bias and creating more opportunities for under-represented groups to have a voice within the organisation would help foster a more inclusive environment.
Do you have a message for East and South East Asian Heritage Month?
I would like to take this opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and contributions of East and South East Asian communities. It is important to recognise and appreciate the diversity within these communities and continue to strive for equality and inclusion for all. Let's continue to educate ourselves on the experiences and challenges faced by individuals of East and South East Asian heritage, and work towards creating a more equitable society for everyone. Let's celebrate the achievements and resilience of these communities while also acknowledging the work that still needs to be done to ensure their voices are heard and valued.
What does this year's theme "Changing Seasons" mean to you?
It serves as a reminder of the continuous growth and evolution within these communities, highlighting the importance of embracing change and diversity. As we reflect on the theme "Changing Seasons," let's also commit to supporting and uplifting each other in our shared journey towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
Anything else you would like to add?
Let's come together to appreciate the beauty of diversity and the richness of different perspectives that make our communities vibrant and resilient. Let's celebrate the unique stories and traditions that contribute to the tapestry of our collective experiences.
Tell us about yourself and your career aspirations growing up?
I’m from a family of 4 and the eldest between me and my brother. I had a lot of career aspirations growing up – from a cashier in Starbucks, working as a TV ad model to wanting to be the first doctor in our family. I, however, graduated BS Nursing in UERMMCI back in 2009.
What was your career route to the role you have today?
After I graduated in 2009, I volunteered for a year to be a nurse in Labour and Delivery Unit in one of the public hospitals in San Juan City, Metro Manila, because back then there were a lot of opportunities for volunteering services as a nurse to practice your skills but not many paid jobs unfortunately. After a year of volunteering, we were faced with familial and financial challenges that opted me to work outside nursing. I worked in both customer and technical service in a few BPO companies for a few years before I went back to practising my nursing skills. When I landed my first paid job as a staff nurse, my nursing career rotated between medical/surgical nursing field and infection control. When I got here in the UK back in 2017, I started in Colorectal Surgery then Cardiothoracic ITU for the first four years of my career in the UK. I then moved from clinical educator to Senior Nurse for International Recruitment for 3 years and now currently practising as the Senior Preceptorship and Healthcare Academy Lead.
Do you have any advice for people with East and South East Asian heritage who may want to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, or math?
It’s okay if you have a day where you feel like you’re not sure what you want to do but also take that leap of faith and courage to foot aa foot forward to try and explore things responsibly. The world is full of possibilities and opportunities. It’s up to us and pack our bags like Dora the explorer!
How has your heritage influenced your career?
My courage to try new things and resilience to stand up no matter how many times I fell is one of the many things I’m proud of to be a Filipino. We were born with a culture of “bayanihan” or helping one another. I had that value instilled in me from a very young age and it flourished to something amazing to the person I am today.
Is there a person from your cultural group or background who has inspired you?
My parents and brother are my constant inspiration since I moved here in Newcastle back in 2017. Their support, resilience, growth and love have embraced me with a shawl of long distance support as an internationally educated nurse living alone for 7 years now here in Newcasatle.
Do you feel supported in your role?
I have been blessed with amazing managers and colleagues that I have worked with since 2017. It’s an every day sunshine kind of day but it was all more than bearable for me because of the support from my lovely colleagues.
What changes would you like to see to make our organisation more inclusive?
Making cultural competence as a yearly mandatory training and not just as a reaction to any serious incident that may have happened. Same with the topics covered in any Trusts’ mandatory trainings, we didn’t know that is essential until we’ve tried. Include it as part of learning and then it constantly evolves as the year goes by. Same with cultural competence/awareness, this should be embedded as part of the yearly mandatory training for staff with the target audience of ALL STAFF in the Trust. The cultural competence/awareness training should include all ethnicities comprised of the workforce within that Trust.
Do you have a message for East and South East Asian Heritage Month?
We are who and what we are today because of two things: (1) because of the values we have and carried on from our own culture and (2) because we adapt with life and the changes that come with it, keeping our cultural values intact no matter what but also respecting the culture we are immersing ourselves in which is now our home away from home.
What does this year's theme "Changing Seasons" mean to you?
It means that every year, we get to start a new chapter of possibilities, opportunities, learnings and growth. However bad the year that past was, we always have a yearly second chance to make up for it. Keep growing, learning, loving. Stay teachable. Live life with gratitude for the yearly second
Tell us about yourself and your career aspirations growing up?
Growing up as a Filipino, I was always surrounded by a strong sense of community and family values, which greatly influenced my aspirations. From a young age, I admired the dedication and care that my elders and relatives provided to one another, especially in times of need. This deeply ingrained sense of compassion and the desire to make a meaningful impact on others' lives guided me toward a career in nursing.
As a nurse, I am committed to providing holistic care that not only addresses the physical needs of my patients but also respects their cultural backgrounds and emotional well-being. My heritage has taught me the importance of empathy, hard work, and resilience—qualities that I strive to bring into my practice every day.
Looking ahead, my aspirations are to continue growing as a healthcare professional, deepening my expertise, and possibly specialising in an area that will allow me to serve my community even better. I also hope to inspire future generations, especially those of Filipino descent, to pursue careers in healthcare, helping to diversify and strengthen our healthcare system with a wide range of perspectives and experiences.
What was your career route to the role you have today?
My career journey to becoming an Emergency Nurse Practitioner (Band 7) at South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust has been both challenging and deeply rewarding. I began my nursing career with a strong foundation in general nursing, driven by a passion to help others and make a tangible difference in their lives. Early on, I was particularly drawn to the fast-paced, dynamic environment of the emergency department, where I could utilise my skills to provide critical care in high-pressure situations.
Over the years, I dedicated myself to continuous learning and professional development, taking on various roles within emergency care that allowed me to build my expertise and leadership abilities. My Filipino heritage, with its emphasis on resilience, compassion, and a strong work ethic, has been a guiding force throughout my journey. It has taught me the importance of perseverance, which has been crucial in navigating the demanding and ever-evolving field of emergency medicine.
Currently, as a Band 7 Emergency Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing the highest standard of care to my patients while also mentoring and supporting my colleagues. My next goal is to advance my career further by becoming an Advanced Clinical Practitioner (Band 8). This role would allow me to expand my scope of practice, take on more complex cases, and contribute even more significantly to the health and well-being of my community.
I am excited about the future and the opportunities it holds, both for my career and for continuing to represent and uphold the values of my Filipino heritage within the NHS.
Do you have any advice for people with East and South East Asian heritage who may want to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, or math?
As someone with East and Southeast Asian heritage working in the healthcare field, I’ve learned that our cultural values of hard work, resilience, and a strong sense of community can be powerful assets in pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, or maths (STEM).
My advice to anyone with East and Southeast Asian heritage considering a career in STEM is to embrace these values and let them guide you. The journey can be challenging, and there may be moments when you feel like you don’t belong or that the path ahead is too difficult. Remember that our communities have a long history of overcoming adversity and making significant contributions to various fields, including healthcare and other STEM disciplines.
One key piece of advice is to seek out mentors and role models who can offer guidance and support. Whether they share your heritage or simply understand your journey, having someone to turn to for advice can make a big difference. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek opportunities, and push yourself outside your comfort zone.
Additionally, stay connected to your cultural roots. Your heritage is a source of strength and can provide unique perspectives that are invaluable in STEM fields. Whether it’s through community involvement, cultural practices, or simply staying connected with your family’s traditions, these aspects of your identity can inspire you and keep you grounded.
Finally, remember that representation matters. By pursuing a career in STEM, you are not only achieving your own goals but also paving the way for future generations. Your success can inspire others who share your heritage to pursue their dreams and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive future in STEM.
How has your heritage influenced your career?
My Filipino heritage has profoundly influenced my career as a nurse, shaping both my approach to patient care and my commitment to the healthcare profession. Growing up in a Filipino household, I was taught the values of compassion, respect, and the importance of caring for others, especially family. These values are deeply embedded in Filipino culture, where the concept of "bayanihan," or communal unity and cooperation, is central. This cultural background naturally drew me to a career in nursing, where empathy and a strong sense of duty are essential.
In my practice, I strive to embody the Filipino spirit of “malasakit,” which means showing genuine care and concern for others. This cultural principle has guided me to treat each patient not just as a case, but as a person with unique needs, deserving of respect and dignity. It has also instilled in me the importance of going above and beyond, ensuring that patients feel supported, understood, and cared for on a holistic level.
Moreover, my heritage has made me acutely aware of the importance of cultural sensitivity in healthcare. I understand how crucial it is to respect and acknowledge the diverse backgrounds of the patients I care for, and I am committed to advocating for culturally competent care within my team. This awareness helps create a more inclusive and effective healthcare environment, where patients from all walks of life feel valued and understood.
In summary, my Filipino heritage has been a cornerstone of my nursing career, influencing my approach to patient care, my professional values, and my ongoing commitment to serving others with compassion and respect. It continues to inspire me every day as I work to make a positive impact on the lives of my patients
Is there a person from your cultural group or background who has inspired you?
One person from my cultural background who has deeply inspired me is Dr. Fe del Mundo, a pioneering Filipino paediatrician. Dr. del Mundo was the first woman admitted to Harvard Medical School, and she dedicated her life to improving healthcare for children in the Philippines, even establishing the first paediatric hospital in the country.
Her dedication, resilience, and commitment to serving others, particularly those in underserved communities, have been a tremendous source of inspiration for me throughout my nursing career. Dr. del Mundo's work exemplifies the values of compassion, service, and excellence that are deeply rooted in Filipino culture. Her legacy reminds me of the impact that one person can have on countless lives, and it motivates me to strive for excellence in my own practice, always putting the well-being of my patients at the forefront.
In my role as a nurse, I am continually inspired by Dr. del Mundo's example to push boundaries, seek continuous learning, and advocate for the best possible care for all my patients. Her story is a powerful reminder of the difference we can make when we combine our cultural values with a passion for healthcare.
Do you feel supported in your role?
Yes, I feel very supported in my role as an Emergency Nurse Practitioner. Working at South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, I am fortunate to be part of a team that values collaboration, inclusivity, and professional growth. My colleagues and supervisors have always been approachable and willing to offer guidance and assistance whenever needed, which has been invaluable in my journey, especially in such a fast-paced and demanding environment like emergency care.
The support I receive isn’t just limited to the practical aspects of my job. There is also a strong emphasis on emotional and mental well-being within our team. This holistic approach to support has helped me maintain a healthy work-life balance, which is crucial in a field as challenging as healthcare.
Additionally, being part of a culturally diverse team has made me feel even more supported and valued. My heritage is respected and celebrated, which creates a work environment where I can bring my whole self to work. This sense of belonging has not only helped me grow as a professional but also empowered me to contribute to my team with confidence and pride in my cultural background.
Overall, the support I receive in my role plays a significant part in my ability to provide the best care possible for my patients and to continue advancing in my career.
What changes would you like to see to make our organisation more inclusive?
To make our organisation even more inclusive, I would like to see continued efforts in fostering cultural awareness and understanding among staff. While we already have a diverse team, increased training and education on the unique cultural backgrounds of our colleagues and patients could further enhance our ability to work together effectively and provide more culturally sensitive care.
I believe that creating more spaces for open dialogue and sharing of personal experiences related to cultural heritage could also be valuable. This could include regular cultural exchange sessions, where staff from different backgrounds can share their traditions, challenges, and perspectives. These exchanges would not only build stronger connections within our team but also help us better understand and serve our diverse patient population.
Moreover, expanding mentorship programmes that specifically support staff from minority backgrounds could help in addressing any unconscious biases and ensuring equal opportunities for career advancement. By pairing experienced mentors with those at the beginning of their careers, we can provide guidance and support that is sensitive to the unique challenges faced by individuals from East and Southeast Asian backgrounds, as well as other underrepresented groups.
Lastly, I’d like to see more recognition and celebration of cultural events and heritage months, such as East and Southeast Asian Heritage Month, within the organisation. These celebrations can serve as an important reminder of the richness of our diverse workforce and can help in promoting a culture of inclusion and respect across all levels of the organisation.
Do you have a message for East and South East Asian Heritage Month?
My message for East and South East Asian Heritage Month is one of pride and celebration. This month is an opportunity for us to honour the rich cultural diversity and significant contributions that East and Southeast Asian communities have made and continue to make across various fields, including healthcare. As a Filipino nurse, I am proud to be part of this vibrant heritage, and I encourage everyone to take this time to learn more about the traditions, histories, and achievements of our communities.
It is also a time to reflect on the importance of diversity and inclusion in our workplaces and society as a whole. By embracing and celebrating our unique backgrounds, we not only enrich our own lives but also create stronger, more compassionate communities. I hope this month inspires all of us to continue promoting understanding, respect, and solidarity across cultures, and to recognise the strength that comes from our shared experiences and collective contributions.
What does this year's theme "Changing Seasons" mean to you?
This year’s theme, “Changing Seasons,” resonates deeply with me as it beautifully captures the cyclical nature of life and the evolving experiences, cultures, and identities within the East and Southeast Asian communities. To me, this theme symbolises growth, resilience, and the ongoing journey of embracing change while staying rooted in our heritage.
Just as the seasons transition, bringing new challenges and opportunities, so too do our lives and experiences as individuals and as a community. Our cultural identities are not static; they adapt and flourish as we move through different stages of life, blending the wisdom of our ancestors with the realities of the present. This theme reminds us that change is a natural and necessary part of life, and with each new season, we have the chance to learn, grow, and redefine who we are.
For the East and Southeast Asian communities, “Changing Seasons” also speaks to the balance between honouring our traditions and embracing the new opportunities that come with living in diverse and dynamic societies. It encourages us to reflect on our journeys, celebrate our progress, and look forward to the future with hope and confidence.
In essence, this theme is a celebration of the resilience and adaptability that define our communities, reminding us that, like the seasons, we too have the power to transform and thrive in the face of change.
Anything else you would like to add?
As we celebrate East and Southeast Asian Heritage Month, I’m reminded of the incredible richness and diversity within our communities. Growing up as a Filipino and now working as a nurse here in the UK, my heritage has profoundly influenced my career and shaped my approach to patient care. The values of compassion, respect, and resilience that were instilled in me from a young age continue to guide my professional journey.
Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Changing Seasons,” I see it as a powerful metaphor for the continuous growth and evolution we experience both individually and as a community. Just as the seasons change, bringing new challenges and opportunities, so do our experiences, cultures, and identities. This theme is a celebration of our adaptability, strength, and the unique ways in which we honour our traditions while embracing the future.
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to feel supported by my colleagues and organisation, which has allowed me to thrive in my role. However, I believe there is always room to enhance inclusivity within our workplaces. By fostering greater cultural awareness, expanding mentorship opportunities, and celebrating our diverse backgrounds, we can create an even more supportive and understanding environment for everyone.
My message for East and Southeast Asian Heritage Month is one of pride and encouragement. Let us take this time to celebrate our heritage, reflect on our journeys, and continue to inspire each other to reach new heights. Whether through sharing our stories, supporting one another, or advocating for inclusivity, we all have a role to play in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future.
As we move forward, I’m excited to see how we can continue to grow, both as individuals and as a community, and I’m proud to be part of this collective journey.
