As a British Pakistani Muslim woman, my journey has been one of cultural richness, resilience, and continuous growth. Growing up in Bradford, a vibrant city known for its diverse communities, I was surrounded by rich customs, traditions, languages, cuisines and stories that shaped my identity from an early age.
My decision to pursue a career in nursing was motivated by a deep desire to understand and serve the diverse communities of West Yorkshire, and to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. Over the past 20 years, I have had the privilege of working within the NHS across various locations in West Yorkshire, a region that exemplifies the rich diversity and resilience of South Asian communities.
After the completion of my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing, I pursued further academic development through studies at the University of Bradford and the University of Huddersfield. These achievements have supported my progression to my current position as Senior Clinical Operations Manager within the Continuing Healthcare team in Calderdale.
Balancing a demanding career and family life, I am also a proud mother of two boys. They are my pride and joy, and I am committed to instilling in them the values of kindness, perseverance, Islam and cultural pride. Celebrating our heritage not only enriches our lives but also helps them understand the importance of embracing their roots while navigating the modern world.
Being South Asian in the NHS often presented significant challenges, I did encounter unconscious biases and systemic inequalities that could have hindered my career progression and access to leadership roles. Despite these obstacles I kept persevering for me, my children and people who look like me to break the barriers. It’s important to recognize the vital contributions of our community and the resilience we demonstrate every day.
This month provides a meaningful opportunity to reflect on our shared stories, honour our traditions, and celebrate our achievements. It also calls us to collective action to break down barriers, challenge inequalities, and promote ongoing efforts toward diversity and inclusion. By working together, we can foster a more inclusive NHS where everyone’s contributions are valued, and our rich cultural heritage is recognized as a strength that benefits us all.
Celebrating this month highlights the rich cultural diversity that bolsters the NHS, as South Asian healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and support staff have tirelessly dedicated themselves to serving patients with compassion and resilience, often under challenging circumstances. Recognizing and embracing these contributions not only enriches our collective understanding but also reinforces our commitment to equitable healthcare, ensuring that the NHS continues to provide high quality and inclusive care for all communities.
As we celebrate this month, I am grateful for my background, my family, my friends and my career. I look forward to continuing to serve my community with compassion and to inspiring the next generation to take pride in their heritage.
Rashda Rehman
Senior Clinical Operations Manager, Calderdale
