Black History Month: Trust celebrates dedication and commitment of staff who make a difference
Black History Month is an opportunity to recognise and appreciate the rich cultural heritage and diverse experiences that staff within the South Eastern Trust bring to their roles every day.
This year's theme is 'reclaiming narratives' and the Trust is shining a spotlight on three remarkable staff members, twin sisters Dorcas and Esther Dankwaa, both Staff Nurses at the Ulster Hospital, and Florence Izedonmwen, a dedicated Community Support Worker.
Dorcas and Esther have been a part of the Trust for three years. Their shared passion for nursing and their dedication to patient care have made them invaluable members of the team. Dorcas and Esther explained: "We are originally from Ghana, West Africa and we came to the Trust through the international recruitment route in January 2021.
"The Clinical Education Team here in the Ulster Hospital has been brilliant. Everyone was so helpful in getting our NMC registrations sorted and then transitioning with our clinical practice on the wards.
"We decided to come to Northern Ireland, although there were other opportunities in England. It has been such a positive experience advancing our skills in medicine. It has been a blessing since we came to this country and we have no regrets so far.
"Our managers and the team that we work with are all excellent and ready to help us and with our patients and everything that we do in day-to-day care. We have the opportunity to learn on the job as well as develop our clinical skills. The people I care for and the people I work with, have really made the difference.
"One of the best things is having each other for support, we stay together, so one of us can help the other. We have had such a positive experience here in the Trust. It is a good place to be both personally and professionally. It's been great!"
Florence Izedonmwen has been a valued Community Support Worker for over two years. Her determination to ensure that patients receive the care and attention they need is inspiring.
"Working in this community has given me a sense of purpose," Florence said. "Every day, I am reminded of the impact we can have when we show care and kindness.
"I moved to Northern Ireland in 2010 and started out as a Care worker in a nursing home. I moved to my current role in Cuan Terrace, which I really love.
"The more I keep doing the job, the more I keep on loving it. Working with adults with learning disabilities is quite different from being a Care Worker in the nursing home.
"When I started here initially, I struggled to cook. The staff are so lovely and have taught me so much, they help me find out more about the society here."
Explaining the importance of Black History Month, Equality Officer, Denise Hopps added: "The Trust is passionate about celebrating diversity and fostering inclusivity.
"This year's theme for Black History Month is 'reclaiming narratives' that underscores a commitment to showcasing the untold success stories and the complexity of Black heritage.
"We appreciate and value the unique skills, experiences and perspectives that our staff from all over the world bring to the South Eastern Trust."