Did you know we have around 900 globally trained nurses working across our hospitals? These are nurses who completed their nursing education overseas and have brought their valuable skills, knowledge and experience to the NHS.
Meet Erasmus, who originally trained as a nurse in Ghana and joined Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust in 2021. Since then, he has made a significant contribution to patient care and his colleagues, recently being recognised with our Teamwork and Excellence Award at the Globally Trained Nurses Conference.
We spoke to Erasmus about his journey from Ghana to Leeds, the value globally trained nurses bring to healthcare teams, and what this award means to him.
How does working as a nurse in Leeds differ from your previous experience?
I have experienced a different healthcare system that places a strong emphasis on multidisciplinary teamwork, evidence-based practice, continuous learning, and patient involvement in decision-making. Working in Leeds has broadened my clinical perspective and challenged me to grow both professionally and personally.
What do you feel are the positives of having diverse training experiences, and how do globally trained nurses add value and impact to healthcare teams?
Diverse training experiences bring different perspectives, skills, and approaches to patient care. Globally trained nurses contribute cultural awareness, adaptability, resilience, and a wealth of clinical experience, gained from working in different healthcare environments. This diversity strengthens teamwork, encourages learning from one another, and ultimately improves the quality of care we provide to our patients. It also helps us better understand and support patients from a wide range of cultural backgrounds.
What has been your proudest achievement since joining our Trust?
My proudest achievement has been the opportunity to grow professionally while making a positive difference to the lives of patients and supporting my colleagues. Being recognised with the Teamwork and Excellence Award at the Globally Trained Nurses Conference is particularly meaningful because it reflects the dedication, compassion and commitment I strive to bring to my role every day. It motivates me to continue learning, developing, and contributing to the excellent care.
What does receiving your Globally Trained Nurses award mean to you?
Receiving this award is both a great honour and a humbling experience. It is a reminder that hard work, perseverance, and compassion do not go unnoticed. As someone who began my nursing journey in Ghana and has continued to develop within the NHS, this recognition represents not only my own achievements but also the contribution of globally trained nurses who bring their knowledge, experience, and passion to healthcare in the UK. I hope it inspires others to believe in themselves and continue striving for excellence.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your journey, including support received, learning experiences, culture, or advice for other globally trained nurses?
My journey has been one of continuous learning, adaptation and growth. Moving to a new country and healthcare system comes with challenges, but I have been fortunate to receive support from colleagues, mentors, and the wider team within Leeds Hospitals, who have helped me build confidence and develop my practice. My advice to other globally trained nurses is to embrace every learning opportunity, ask questions and never underestimate the value of the knowledge and experience you already bring. Your background is a strength and with dedication, resilience, and a willingness to learn, you can make a meaningful impact on patients, colleagues, and the wider healthcare community.