In this episode of The International Care Collective, we hear the inspiring story of Dr. Rayanna Pereira, who began her career as an International Medical Graduate (IMG) after qualifying as a doctor in Brazil.

Rayanna moved to the UK in winter 2019, just months before the COVID-19 pandemic changed the world. Despite the challenges of relocating and adapting to a new healthcare system during such an uncertain time, she found strength in the kindness and support of colleagues who made her feel welcome in the NHS.

Today, Rayanna is a HIV/GUM trainee in Brighton, a role that reflects her resilience, determination, and passion for patient care. She shares her journey from those early days as an IMG to where she is now, highlighting the lessons learned, the people who helped along the way, and the opportunities that shaped her career.

Rayanna joined The International Care Collective podcast to connect with international colleagues who may be navigating similar paths and to give local colleagues insight into what it takes to transition into the NHS. Her story is a celebration of perseverance, community, and the diverse experiences that strengthen our healthcare system.

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In this episode, we dive into the importance of preceptorship for internationally educated healthcare professionals during their first year in the NHS — a critical time for building confidence, shaping professional identity, and setting the foundation for future success.

Joining us are two passionate leaders in clinical education:

• Katrina (Kat) Dela Vina, Senior Clinical Educator for Nursing Preceptorship at University Hospitals Sussex, who brings both expertise and personal experience as an internationally educated nurse. Kat shares her journey since arriving in the UK in 2016, reflecting on the kindness and sense of community she’s found here, and why guiding new colleagues through this formative stage is both a responsibility and an honour.

• Zoe Rothery, Interim Head of AHP Clinical Education and Neurological Physiotherapist, who started her NHS career in 2001. Zoe explains why education delivered in a person-centred, non-hierarchical way is key to valuing staff and supporting wellbeing. She also shares how her dual role as educator and clinician allows her to empower professionals and patients alike, creating mutual learning and respect.

Together, Kat and Zoe discuss the challenges international recruits face, the support systems that make a difference, and why preceptorship is essential for retention, wellbeing, and professional growth. This conversation celebrates diversity within the NHS and offers practical insights for anyone supporting or starting their journey.

🔊 Want to learn more about preceptorship? Check out the dedicated Preceptorship Podcast series here: https://www.youtube.com/@PreceptorshipTeam/videos

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In this inspiring episode, we meet Jonathan, a physiotherapist from Nigeria who arrived in the UK on September 23rd, 2023, and began his NHS career on October 9th, 2023. Jonathan shares what he loves most about life in the UK — from breathtaking scenery and warm, kind people to the strong support systems that make him feel at home, especially his cherished church community.

Jonathan’s role as a physiotherapist is deeply meaningful. Every day, he works alongside an incredible team, supporting patients through their recovery journeys. His most rewarding moments? Seeing patients regain function after serious illness or being safely discharged after long, complex admissions. For Jonathan, it’s more than a job — it’s a blessing to be part of a system that truly saves lives.

In this episode, Jonathan reflects on his unique journey, the people who made it smooth, and the faith and convictions that kept him going. His story is a powerful reminder 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 looking for inspiration, this episode will leave you motivated and uplifted.

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