After an incredible first season, we’re returning later this year with more meaningful conversations, inspiring international voices, and the much‑loved Board of Joy.

We’d love your ideas for new Board of Joy questions — message us on socials or email uhsussex.icc@nhs.net.

Plus, look out for new Factual Friday bonus episodes spotlighting those who support international staff across the NHS.

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Originally from Uganda, Justine faced more obstacles than most: visa complications, broken job role promises, and countless challenges that internationally educated professionals often endure behind the scenes. Yet with every setback, she powered forward—driven by purpose, courage, and a deep passion for the patients and colleagues she serves.

Today, Justine stands as a powerful advocate for international AHPs, championing fairness, equity, and visibility for globally trained professionals across the NHS. In this episode, she opens up about the barriers she overcame, the lessons she learned, and the strength it took to keep moving when the road ahead felt uncertain.

Her story is more than a personal journey—it is a testament to perseverance, community, and the transformative impact of international healthcare workers within the NHS.

As we close the season, Justine’s episode embodies the heart of this series: honesty, hope, and the incredible journeys of those who leave home to care for others.

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Rayanna moved to the UK in winter 2019, just months before the COVID-19 pandemic changed the world. Despite the challenges of relocating and adapting to a new healthcare system during such an uncertain time, she found strength in the kindness and support of colleagues who made her feel welcome in the NHS.

Today, Rayanna is a HIV/GUM trainee in Brighton, a role that reflects her resilience, determination, and passion for patient care. She shares her journey from those early days as an IMG to where she is now, highlighting the lessons learned, the people who helped along the way, and the opportunities that shaped her career.

Rayanna joined The International Care Collective podcast to connect with international colleagues who may be navigating similar paths and to give local colleagues insight into what it takes to transition into the NHS. Her story is a celebration of perseverance, community, and the diverse experiences that strengthen our healthcare system.

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Joining us are two passionate leaders in clinical education:

• Katrina (Kat) Dela Vina, Senior Clinical Educator for Nursing Preceptorship at University Hospitals Sussex, who brings both expertise and personal experience as an internationally educated nurse. Kat shares her journey since arriving in the UK in 2016, reflecting on the kindness and sense of community she’s found here, and why guiding new colleagues through this formative stage is both a responsibility and an honour.

• Zoe Rothery, Interim Head of AHP Clinical Education and Neurological Physiotherapist, who started her NHS career in 2001. Zoe explains why education delivered in a person-centred, non-hierarchical way is key to valuing staff and supporting wellbeing. She also shares how her dual role as educator and clinician allows her to empower professionals and patients alike, creating mutual learning and respect.

Together, Kat and Zoe discuss the challenges international recruits face, the support systems that make a difference, and why preceptorship is essential for retention, wellbeing, and professional growth. This conversation celebrates diversity within the NHS and offers practical insights for anyone supporting or starting their journey.

🔊 Want to learn more about preceptorship? Check out the dedicated Preceptorship Podcast series here: https://www.youtube.com/@PreceptorshipTeam/videos

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Jonathan’s role as a physiotherapist is deeply meaningful. Every day, he works alongside an incredible team, supporting patients through their recovery journeys. His most rewarding moments? Seeing patients regain function after serious illness or being safely discharged after long, complex admissions. For Jonathan, it’s more than a job — it’s a blessing to be part of a system that truly saves lives.

In this episode, Jonathan reflects on his unique journey, the people who made it smooth, and the faith and convictions that kept him going. His story is a powerful reminder of resilience, purpose, and the impact of international healthcare professionals in the NHS.

🔊 Whether you’re considering a move to the UK, working in healthcare, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode will leave you motivated and uplifted.

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Now proudly working within the NHS, Sara shares what she loves most about life in the UK — from the freedom and safety of solo travel to the joy of exploring new places. Her role as a therapeutic radiographer holds deep meaning, as she provides holistic care to cancer patients with compassion and pride.

Sara joins the podcast to inspire others with her journey, hoping to give confidence to those chasing their dreams. Her message is clear: never give up — your story could be the spark someone else needs.

🔊 Whether you're considering a career in healthcare, navigating international relocation, or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode is a must-listen.

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Sib shares what he loves most about working in the UK — the culture of compassion, teamwork, and respect that defines his department. His role in Nuclear Medicine blends advanced imaging with human connection, supporting accurate diagnoses while helping patients feel at ease during moments of uncertainty.

For Sib, this work is more than technical; it’s a privilege to be part of a patient’s journey, to bring kindness into clinical moments, and to collaborate with colleagues who share the same values. In this episode, he reflects on his transition, growth, and sense of belonging at UHSx, hoping his story inspires others and celebrates the diverse journeys that strengthen the NHS.

🔊 Whether you’re considering a move to the UK, working in healthcare, or simply curious about the impact of international professionals, this episode is full of insight and inspiration.

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🔹 Victoria Bagshaw, Deputy Director of Workforce and Education

🔹 Mark Doblas, Lead Nurse for International Retention, Multi-professional Workforce & Education Team

Together, they unpack the vision and impact of the #StayandThrive Community of Action — a transformative initiative designed to support internationally recruited NHS staff, not just in joining the workforce, but in truly thriving within it.

From recruitment to retention, Victoria and Mark share how #StayandThrive is creating meaningful change by fostering inclusion, professional development, and long-term support for overseas staff. This episode explores the importance of community, leadership, and strategic action in building a more resilient and diverse NHS.

🔊 Whether you're an international recruit, a workforce leader, or someone passionate about equity in healthcare, this conversation offers valuable insights into how we can all contribute to a more supportive and sustainable NHS.

Learn more about the initiative at www.england.nhs.uk/stay-thrive

Follow the #stayandthrive Team on their socials:

X : https://x.com/stayandthrive

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stay_and_thrive?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stay-and-thrive/

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Shahd shares what it means to work in the NHS, the opportunities and growth that come with it, and why being part of this system is so meaningful to her. She also opens up about her motivation for joining the podcast: to help others who are on a similar path, offering insights and encouragement to those aspiring to work in the UK healthcare system.

🔊 Whether you’re an international healthcare professional, considering a move to the UK, or simply curious about the stories behind the NHS workforce, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom.

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Now thriving as a Unit Manager for a specialist unit, Nidhiya shares how her role has deepened her understanding of mental health conditions and empowered her to lead with compassion and confidence. Her journey is a powerful reflection of international experience, personal growth, and the impact of effective leadership in healthcare.

Nidhiya joins the podcast to share her story — a heartfelt account of her transition, challenges, and triumphs as an international staff member. This episode is a celebration of resilience, purpose, and the value of diverse perspectives in the NHS.

🔊 Whether you're an aspiring NHS recruit, a fellow international staff member, or simply curious about life inside the UK healthcare system, this episode is not to be missed.

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Papama’s role as a Dietitian is more than a profession — it’s a calling. She reflects on the deep fulfilment that comes from empowering patients through nutrition and care, and how her work contributes to the wellbeing of individuals and the wider community.

In this episode, Papama opens up about the challenges she’s faced, the support she’s received, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Her story is a powerful message of resilience, purpose, and the impact of international healthcare professionals in the NHS.

🔊 Whether you're considering a move to the UK, working in healthcare, or simply curious about the journey of international NHS staff, this episode is sure to inspire.

✨ Since recording, Papama has been promoted — achieving this milestone in less than a year. A true testament to her dedication and impact.

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So, here’s a breakdown of the common abbreviations you may here during the podcast episodes!

• NHS - National Health Service – This is the UK national ran health system.

• AHP – Allied health professionals – one of the largest groups of clinical professionals in the NHS including Physiotherapists and dietitians but also art drama and music therapists.

• NMC – Nursing and Midwifery Council – This is the national governing body for nurses, midwives and nursing associates in the UK. Staff in these professions pay an annual fee to be on the register and without this cannot practice clinically.

• HCPC – Health and Care Professions Council – this is another UK governing body and register that staff in the AHP Professions as well as those in the healthcare or biomedical sciences have to register with to practice in the UK. Again, staff pay an annual fee.  

• GMC – General Medical Council – This is the UK governing body for doctors in the UK.

• OSCE – Observed Structured Clinical Examination – this is an examination which international nurses, midwives and nursing associates have to pass in order to be added on to the register in the UK.

• IMG – International Medical Graduate – An international medical graduate (IMG is a physician who has graduated from a medical school outside of the country where he or she intends to practice.

• Preceptorship - Preceptorship is a structured period of support for newly registered health and care professionals to transition from student to autonomous practitioner. It helps them develop confidence, refine skills, and embed knowledge into practice, fostering personal and professional growth and supporting long-term retention and effective patient care.

• Band or Banding – when these words are used, it’s referring to pay scales. For example, band 4, Band 5 etc. This usually relates to a specific level of responsibility within a specific role.

We hope this has helped those of you unfamiliar with these and you enjoy listening to us here at the international care collective. See you soon for our first episode on the 21st November 2025!

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