We are starting the week by shining the light on Sumandeep Nijjar, Learning and Development Resus Manager who was nominated three times by Natasha Jones, Inderpreet Kaur and Samantha King. Natasha said:

“Sumandeep is very valuable in many aspects. She is a brilliant trainer towards staff and explains things very well. She advocates for all patients needs and cultural needs, referring patients for example to the Spiritual Care team. She goes above and beyond for patients and staff. Suman is punctual and reliable she never lets the team down and is also willing to go and work on other wards when staffing is short. Suman is a very well-rounded nurse with lots of clinical skills and knowledge that she can apply to any field of work area she is in.”

Inderpreet said:

“Suman is extremely hard working, displaying high work morale whilst caring for patients. She is compassionate, caring and a highly valued individual, with high levels of clinical knowledge and skills. Suman has supported me during my training as a newly qualified nurse, providing me with knowledge and skills to enhance my understanding when caring for patients.”

Samantha said:

“Sumandeep is dedicated to being inclusive in clinical and non-clinical areas. She is caring, kind, compassionate, nonjudgemental and committed to challenging unconscious bias in the workplace. Sumandeep has been supporting international nurses where there has been a cultural barrier for them since arriving in the United Kingdom. Sumandeep has supported families of patients and patients where there has been a language barrier to help translate to ensure the patients needs are met.”

Sumandeep was asked to share more about her heritage and what South Asian Heritage Month means to her.

“I am a grandchild of migrants from Punjab, my grandparents and parents have been an integral part of my life. They continuously instil the cultural values of my Punjabi heritage reminding me of that rich blend of culture, language and lifestyle that have shaped every aspect of my identity. Being Punjabi is a part of who I am, it has allowed me to have a broader outlook on life and appreciate those around me who have continuously uplifted me to be the best version of me

South Asian Heritage Month serves as a reminder of preserving and sharing our heritage with pride and not forgetting the struggles of our ancestors who have paved the way for our community today.”