I take great pride in the fact that when we provide a service or solve an issue, we ensure that the Breast Screening service continues smoothly. In a way, we’re the unsung heroes who keep things running seamlessly.
My experience of working in Health, Wellness and Social Care
I began my career at Hammersmith Hospital, where I nursed sick babies and children, primarily those with heart defects, blood cancer, or muscular disease. Later, I worked with older people and studied Gerontology at King’s College in the evenings. During this time, I established one of the first 24-hour community alarm services for the London Borough of Hounslow, managing that service along with the sheltered housing program for the next 13 years. I expanded the service to various client groups, including those experiencing domestic violence, racial harassment, and homelessness.
After the birth of my second child, I started my own business as the first franchisee for a new concept in ultrasound scanning. I ran the business for 17 years, opening satellite clinics throughout Greater London and the South, adapting the concept as competition increased and during the credit crunch. I employed sonographers, midwives, doctors, as well as individuals returning to work after a career break and university students.
Over the years, I became recognized as an entrepreneur, a role I embraced. I thrived on being a pioneer while helping others reach their potential.
My Journey at Hitachi
I joined Hitachi’s IT/Application world in March 2020, just after the lockdown began. Sadly, I had just lost my business but believed my technical skills could transfer, as I was often the one troubleshooting when ultrasound machines malfunctioned. I reloaded software onto old machines and created workstations to keep my business compliant and running.
I secured a position in second-line support for the NBSS team and quickly realized that my experience and skills were perhaps not as transferable as I initially thought. Adapting to the corporate world and a completely new application was tough. However, with resilience and determination, I kept pushing forward and learning.
Since then, I’ve worked in Support, QA, and returned to support as an SME for the NBSS application. I also hold responsibilities in problem management, license overview, data purge processes, and business continuity management within the NBSS service.
My work impacts patient care and wellbeing
I take great pleasure in finding solutions to complex issues. A significant part of my career has involved collaborating with healthcare and social care professionals.
I take great pride in the fact that when we provide a service or solve an issue, we ensure that the Breast Screening service continues smoothly. In a way, we’re the unsung heroes who keep things running seamlessly.
Advice to young women building their career
The most important tip is that when things are not going that well, when people around you seem frustrated, remember that it’s not the end of the world. What people think about you is just a reflection of how they operate. Don’t let these thoughts knock your confidence. Ask questions and challenge them, always respectfully, show tenacity — it will bring you the respect and recognition you deserve.
One achievement that I cherish
I have had many career achievements that I am proud of. I have loved being the first to offer or develop a service on many occasions. However, during my time with Hitachi, I would say that gaining my ITIL 4 accreditation was a highlight. I must confess, I shed happy tears as I finally felt I had reached a significant milestone—something I once thought was out of reach in my early days.
