In this inspiring episode, we welcome Shahd, a Consultant Radiologist from Egypt, who arrived in the UK on 13th November 2024 and began her NHS role on 3rd December 2024. For Shahd, this move represents more than a career change — it’s the fulfilment of a lifelong dream after a long and determined journey.

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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In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Nidhiya Sara Shaji, a dedicated healthcare professional who arrived in the UK on 24th June 2021, joining University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust. From the moment she stepped into the NHS, Nidhiya embraced the UK’s rich cultural diversity, enhanced work culture, and the ease of everyday services.

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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In this heartfelt episode, we welcome Papama Fokwana, a dedicated Dietitian from South Africa who began her NHS journey on 22nd July, shortly after arriving in the UK on 16th July. Papama shares her experience of transitioning to life in the UK — from exploring new places and enjoying the vibrant summers to building meaningful friendships and embracing the opportunities for growth within the NHS.

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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We all love an abbreviation in our lives, don’t we? But here at collective towers we know some of you listening and watching may not know what some of these may mean. To be fair, Even I’ve got a list.

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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Created in partnership between University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust and NHS England’s #StayandThrive Community of Action, this podcast is a joyful celebration of the incredible journeys our international colleagues have taken to join the NHS. Across so many different professions, their stories highlight courage, dedication, and the vital contributions they make every day.

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Subscribe and be ready for our first episode landing 21st November 2025.

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