Adefunke Ogbeta: Apprentice HCSW of the Year
The London HCSW (Healthcare Support Worker) Awards 2024 is an event dedicated to honouring the remarkable contributions, dedication, and professionalism exhibited by Healthcare Support Workers. Adefunke Ogbeta discusses winning Apprentice Healthcare Support Worker of the Year 2024.
What does winning the award mean to you, and what was it like to win?
Winning the award for Apprentice HCSW of the Year 2024 made my heart swell with pride and gratitude – I felt a mixture of joy and disbelief. It meant everything to know that my dedication had touched lives and inspired those around me.
What led to your nomination for Apprentice of the Year?
I was nominated for the award because of my commitment to patient care, my proactive approach to learning, and the positive feedback from both colleagues and patients. During my apprenticeship, I seized every opportunity to grow—whether it was staying late to assist during challenging shifts, volunteering for additional training, or offering a listening ear to patients and colleagues who needed emotional support. My passion for making a difference in people's lives had not gone unnoticed.
Why did you decide to start your journey to becoming a nurse?
My journey to becoming a nurse started with a deeply personal experience: caring for a loved one during their illness. Witnessing the compassion and skill of the nurses inspired me to follow in their footsteps. I realised that nursing was more than a job; it was a calling to bring comfort, healing, and hope to others.
What would you like to do in your future career as a nurse?
Looking ahead, I dream of going further in my nursing career and specialising in mental health nursing, where I can support patients and their families during difficult times. I also hope to mentor aspiring nurses. My ultimate goal is to make a lasting impact in healthcare, whether through clinical excellence, advocacy, or leadership.
What advice do you have for others thinking about a nursing apprenticeship?
For anyone considering a nursing apprenticeship, my advice is simple: go for it with all your heart. It is a challenging journey, but the rewards are unparalleled. The experience will shape you into a compassionate and skilled professional while teaching resilience and teamwork.
Would you recommend your course/apprenticeship at LSBU to others?
I highly recommend the apprenticeship at LSBU. The combination of academic rigor and hands-on experience has been invaluable. The supportive tutors, diverse placements, and practical learning opportunities provide the perfect foundation for a nursing career. LSBU equips you with not only the knowledge but also the confidence to excel in this noble profession.
Winning this award is just the beginning of my journey. It is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the incredible support of the LSBU community. If I can do it, so can you!