OPINION: People who work in research don't look like me. I want to change that.

Coming from Zimbabwe, it has always been hammered into me that education was the only way to succeed. So, I pursued most of the educational opportunities that came my way, with my last academic qualification being a Master’s in Research awarded in 2022.

But this is only part of my story. I have served the NHS as a clinical nurse for over 24 years with 13 years of them as a clinical research nurse, whilst ensuring I worked clinically as well.

It was during my time as a clinical research nurse that I noticed the under-representation of Black and Asian nurses in research roles. Having done a public consultation on why people from Black and Asian communities are under-represented in research the most commonly said statement was, “It’s not for me, people who work in research don’t look like me”.

I want to change that.

If nothing is done, our communities will continue to experience poorer health outcomes as research findings continue to lack representation from our communities. This led me to apply for the NIHR Senior Research Leader Programme for Nurses and Midwives, which I was successfully awarded in April 2024 and lasts for three years.

As part of this programme, I am undertaking an important piece of research to identify and understand the barriers and enablers  to nurses (band 5-7) having a career in research. If you are a nurse working in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, your support in completing the survey (closing in August) will be appreciated. Complete the survey.

It is my commitment in this role to foster an inclusive environment where Black and Asian nurses are empowered to contribute to and lead in nursing research. I believe that diverse perspectives are essential in shaping the future of healthcare, and I am deeply invested in ensuring that Black and Asian nurses have the resources, mentorship, and support they need to thrive in research roles

Working in health and care research allows me the opportunity to make tangible differences in people’s lives. Through research, I can contribute to knowledge that is important in improving patient care, enhancing treatment options and addressing challenges associated with accessing health and care services. I personally find this both fulfilling and motivating.

There is so much talent and research passion hidden within us and our colleagues. I am sure some of you have knocked and knocked on research doors and they just have not opened, and you feel like the ‘research fire’ just dies.

Don’t let your research fire die!

Please reach out to me for an informal chat: [email protected]