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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In this heartfelt episode, we meet Sara Hashmi, a therapeutic radiographer whose journey to the UK began on 1st June 2023. Although a delay in receiving her Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) postponed her NHS start date to 20th June, Sara’s story is one of resilience, patience, and purpose.

Now proudly working within the NHS, Sara shares what she loves most about life in the UK — from the freedom and safety of solo travel to the joy of exploring new places. Her role as a therapeutic radiographer holds deep meaning, as she provides holistic care to cancer patients with compassion and pride.

Sara joins the podcast to inspire others with her journey, hoping to give confidence to those chasing their dreams. Her message is clear: never give up — your story could be the spark someone else needs.

🔊 Whether you're considering a career in healthcare, navigating international relocation, or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode is a must-listen.

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In this episode, we welcome Sibghat (Sib), a Nuclear Medicine Technologist from Pakistan who arrived in the UK on 4th May 2024 and began his NHS career at University Hospitals Sussex on 14th May 2024. Moving to a new country and stepping into a different healthcare system was both exciting and challenging, but for Sib, it quickly became one of the most meaningful chapters of his life.

Sib shares what he loves most about working in the UK — the culture of compassion, teamwork, and respect that defines his department. His role in Nuclear Medicine blends advanced imaging with human connection, supporting accurate diagnoses while helping patients feel at ease during moments of uncertainty.

For Sib, this work is more than technical; it’s a privilege to be part of a patient’s journey, to bring kindness into clinical moments, and to collaborate with colleagues who share the same values. In this episode, he reflects on his transition, growth, and sense of belonging at UHSx, hoping his story inspires others and celebrates the diverse journeys that strengthen the NHS.

🔊 Whether you’re considering a move to the UK, working in healthcare, or simply curious about the impact of international professionals, this episode is full of insight and inspiration.

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In this episode, we’re joined by two passionate leaders from NHS England North East and Yorkshire:

🔹 Victoria Bagshaw, Deputy Director of Workforce and Education

🔹 Mark Doblas, Lead Nurse for International Retention, Multi-professional Workforce & Education Team

Together, they unpack the vision and impact of the #StayandThrive Community of Action — a transformative initiative designed to support internationally recruited NHS staff, not just in joining the workforce, but in truly thriving within it.

From recruitment to retention, Victoria and Mark share how #StayandThrive is creating meaningful change by fostering inclusion, professional development, and long-term support for overseas staff. This episode explores the importance of community, leadership, and strategic action in building a more resilient and diverse NHS.

🔊 Whether you're an international recruit, a workforce leader, or someone passionate about equity in healthcare, this conversation offers valuable insights into how we can all contribute to a more supportive and sustainable NHS.

Learn more about the initiative at www.england.nhs.uk/stay-thrive

Follow the #stayandthrive Team on their socials:

X : https://x.com/stayandthrive

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stay_and_thrive?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stay-and-thrive/

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In this inspiring episode, we welcome Shahd, a Consultant Radiologist from Egypt, who arrived in the UK on 13th November 2024 and began her NHS role on 3rd December 2024. For Shahd, this move represents more than a career change — it’s the fulfilment of a lifelong dream after a long and determined journey.

Shahd shares what it means to work in the NHS, the opportunities and growth that come with it, and why being part of this system is so meaningful to her. She also opens up about her motivation for joining the podcast: to help others who are on a similar path, offering insights and encouragement to those aspiring to work in the UK healthcare system.

🔊 Whether you’re an international healthcare professional, considering a move to the UK, or simply curious about the stories behind the NHS workforce, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom.

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In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Nidhiya Sara Shaji, a dedicated healthcare professional who arrived in the UK on 24th June 2021, joining University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust. From the moment she stepped into the NHS, Nidhiya embraced the UK’s rich cultural diversity, enhanced work culture, and the ease of everyday services.

Now thriving as a Unit Manager for a specialist unit, Nidhiya shares how her role has deepened her understanding of mental health conditions and empowered her to lead with compassion and confidence. Her journey is a powerful reflection of international experience, personal growth, and the impact of effective leadership in healthcare.

Nidhiya joins the podcast to share her story — a heartfelt account of her transition, challenges, and triumphs as an international staff member. This episode is a celebration of resilience, purpose, and the value of diverse perspectives in the NHS.

🔊 Whether you're an aspiring NHS recruit, a fellow international staff member, or simply curious about life inside the UK healthcare system, this episode is not to be missed.

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