2023 Pulse Awards winners
Congratulations to the winners of our 2023 Pulse Awards
Following over 700 nominations and almost 7,000 votes, we’re pleased to announce our winners of the 2023 Pulse Awards.
The extraordinary compassionate care shown by our winners and their commitment to improving and enhancing the lives of their patients is truly inspiring.
Nurse, midwife, ODP and HCA winners
Nurse of the Year
Patricia Black
With over 40 years of nursing experience, Patricia epitomises dedication and compassion. Specialising in oncology, she is praised for her outstanding patient care, empathy, and professionalism. Colleagues and patients alike admire her commitment to going above and beyond, making her a truly exceptional nurse deserving of recognition.
Midwife of the Year
Fidelia Yaa Pokua Boateng
Coming from a family of carers, Yaa’s nursing journey began as an enrolled nurse, progressing to a registered general nurse, specialising in women’s health. With 37 years of experience, she has excelled as a gynae nurse, egg donation coordinator, and registered midwife, contributing significantly to FGM care. Nominated for her exceptional work ethic, commitment, and reliability, Yaa’s colleagues praise her resilience and dedication amid personal challenges, highlighting her invaluable contributions to healthcare.
ODP of the Year
Beverley Sterling
As an attentive and patient ODP, Beverley chose her vocation to care for those unable to care for themselves due to age or illness. With a diverse background in medical specialities, she consolidated her training at St Bartholomew’s Hospital. After three years, she was promoted to Local Assessment Coordinator, mentoring trainees and organising placements. Beverley’s outstanding commitment and skills have made her a valued member of Pulse for over 20 years, earning her nominations from colleagues for her reliability and positive impact on clients.
Support Star of the Year
Florence Ataga
Florence began her career as a healthcare assistant in London, specialising in elderly care, dementia, and brain injury. Now, as a versatile bank staff member, she has gained experience in maternity wards, diabetic clinics, and wound care. Since joining Pulse in 2023, she has excelled in providing lung checks for elderly patients, earning praise for her diligence, sense of humour, attentive communication, and helpful nature.
Rising Star Award
Ayomid Zannu
Ayomid, a dedicated nurse, embodies the essence of compassionate care. With a deep-rooted passion for nursing as a noble calling, she embraces challenges as opportunities to make a difference. Recognised for her kindness, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to patients and colleagues, Ayomid emerges as a rising star in healthcare.
Built on Trust Award
Jasmine Powell
Jasmine is a dedicated and compassionate ODP recognised for always going the extra mile. Colleagues praise her exceptional patient care, advocacy, and leadership, especially in emergencies. She fosters camaraderie, supports her peers’ development, and ensures gold-standard care, making her an invaluable asset in any healthcare setting.
By Your Side Award
Rosa Garrido-Corral
Driven by a desire to make a difference, Rosa transitioned from a healthcare assistant to a dedicated NICU nurse, motivated by childhood memories spent in hospitals. Relocating from Spain to the UK, she found fulfilment in helping babies and families through challenging times. Her colleagues praise her patience and understanding.
Above and Beyond Award
Consolata Tsvangirai-Mahachi
Consolata, a hugely caring nurse and humanitarian ambassador, has served in war-torn areas. Committed to healthcare, she funded an orphanage in Zimbabwe, earning praise for selflessness and dedication. Colleagues highlight her exceptional commitment to both the hospital and philanthropy, showcasing unwavering support for others’ wellbeing.
Psychiatry, psychological therapies and allied health winners
Psychiatrist of the Year
Dr. Taiye Giwa
Psychiatrist Dr. Giwa leads with a holistic approach, focusing on patient-centred care and promoting recovery. With a commitment to the core elements of the recovery model, he actively contributes to service development and medical education. Nominated for his strong work ethic, resilience, and dedication to mental health, Dr. Giwa embodies the essence of compassionate psychiatry.
AHP of the Year
Joshua Wright
Josh, an empathetic occupational therapist, embodies a lifelong dedication to aiding others. Since joining Pulse in 2022, he has seamlessly integrated into the team, offering consistent support to colleagues. His swift transition to a challenging NHS band six rotation reflects his adaptability and dedication. Outstanding client feedback underscores his exceptional care and professionalism.
Psychologist of the Year
Andreia Santo
Andreia holds dual qualifications as a clinical and counselling psychologist in the UK. Trained in Portugal, she embraced further postgraduate training in London as a Family Systemic Practitioner. Known for her dedication and passion, Andreia has consistently made impactful contributions to mental health and patient wellbeing.
Talking Therapist of the Year
John Chin
John, a dedicated healthcare professional, has served in the NHS for over 20 years before transitioning to the private sector and joining Pulse in 2011. With 19 placements across eight trusts/services in 12 years, he consistently garners praise for his exceptional therapy skills. Colleagues commend his loyalty, integrity, and commitment to Pulse.
Rising Star Award
Maria Alonso
Maria’s career is focused on creating lasting memories and joyful experiences for children during healthcare visits. With a history of running summer camps, Maria is dedicated to bringing happiness to little lives. Colleagues praise her hard work, exceptional feedback, and warm personality, anticipating her future success.
By Your Side Award
Carlene Roberts
From support worker to clinical lead occupational therapist, Carlene honours her mother’s legacy in mental health. Since 2019, she’s excelled with Pulse, covering various mental health roles. Promoted to band 7 in 2022, her leadership and advocacy for occupational therapy make her a standout AHP candidate, embodying dedication and compassion.
Built on Trust Award
Deborah Mathews
Deborah’s nomination for the Built on Trust award highlights her remarkable journey from the creative industry to occupational therapy, driven by a profound desire to give back. Despite facing a significant accident, she harnessed her skills to rehabilitate herself and now returns to professional practice with steadfast commitment. With over a decade of NHS experience, her dedication to making a difference and shaping healthcare exemplifies unwavering commitment and resilience.
Above and Beyond Award
Dr. Kalyan Muthuswamy
Dr. Muthuswamy, a compassionate doctor, excels in crisis management, particularly with children. His calm demeanour and ability to soothe highly dysregulated or emotional youngsters showcase his expertise. Colleagues praise his approachability and reliability, seeking his advice even during unconventional hours. Dr. Muthuswamy’s dedication reduces suffering and instils hope in young patients, shaping the future of society.
Doctor winners
Junior Doctor of the Year
Dr. Ali Ahmed
Dr. Ahmed, a committed medical registrar, champions health equity and systemic change. His career reflects a dedication to understanding underserved populations’ experiences and leveraging clinical insights for impactful advisory roles. Dr. Ahmed’s commitment shines through his availability during junior doctor strikes and his readiness to assist across departments, earning him respect and admiration from colleagues.
Specialist Doctor of the Year
Dr. Firoza Bhuiyan
With 16 years of NHS experience, Dr. Bhuiyan is currently a dedicated Speciality Doctor of Medicine at Goodmayes Hospital, London. Passionate about supporting frail patients, she holds leadership roles in BDMA (Doctor’s Association), where she mentors junior doctors. Dr. Bhuiyan’s 4-year commitment to Pulse at NELFT showcases her punctuality and caring professionalism, earning her an outstanding reputation among colleagues and clients.
Consultant of the Year
Dr. Feroz Rahim
Dr. Rahim consistently undertakes last-minute shifts, aiding departments during staff shortages. His dedication is evident in his work during holidays like Christmas and New Year, working long hours to clear patient backlogs. Colleagues universally appreciate him and regularly provide positive feedback. Dr. Rahim is a reliable and valued asset wherever he is assigned.
Rising Star Award
Dr. Christiana Akingbola
Dr. Christiana Akingbola began her journey as a junior Doctor at Pulse, and has now ascended to the esteemed position of qualified consultant. Despite only recently attaining her specialist registration, her impact has already been profound. With a blend of expertise, compassion, and dedication, she has swiftly established herself as an invaluable asset to our medical community. Her commitment to patient care and clinical excellence is evident in every interaction, making her a standout among her peers.
By Your Side Award
Dr. Valeed Ghafoor
Dr. Ghafoor’s nomination reflects an illustrious journey from FY2 to a seasoned specialist and company director. With expertise spanning emergency medicine, primary care, and management, Dr. Ghafoor stands out as a trailblazer. His commitment to continuous learning and innovation, evident since his locum days, underscores his exceptional career trajectory and dedication to healthcare excellence.
Above & Beyond Award
Dr. Syed Altaf
Dr. Altaf is nominated for consistently going “above and beyond” in patient care. His commitment to prioritising patients, regardless of time or boundaries, reflects a dedication to humanity beyond profession. Revered by patients and healthcare peers, his departure from the previous trust garnered heartfelt wishes and department-wide recognition, exemplifying his exceptional service ethos.
Built on Trust Award
Dr. Imran Hafeez
Known for his dedication and trustworthiness, Dr. Hafeez stands out as a top contender for the Built on Trust Award. With nearly seven years at Pulse, he’s ascended from SpR to consultant, showcasing the efficacy of non-traditional training paths. Dr. Hafeez’s commitment to patients and colleagues has garnered admiration across multiple NHS trusts, reflecting his enduring impact in Pulse.
