Career role model: Cynthia Fowler
Originally from Kenya, I’ve lived in England for 15 years and I’m a mother of two girls. I love working with people, and although from a social work background in Kenya, when I came to the UK, I wanted to continue to work with people and nursing appealed to me. This was the best decision ever!
Cynthia is a Practice Development Nurse
Career path
I always wanted to progress in my Nursing career but not in a ward environment. I enjoy supporting staff in the ward to become the better version of themselves.
First nursing job?
Staff Nurse, Respiratory Department
Why this specialty?
I loved my placements when I was a student and I had difficulties choosing where to work when I qualified. I then decided that my last placement would be my chosen speciality. This happened to be respiratory and I enjoyed being a respiratory Nurse.
What obstacles have you faced and overcome?
I won't call them challenges per se but I remember when I was asked what I wanted to do, I said I wanted to progress in my career. Those who I asked were from ethnic minority groups and told me that it would never happen here because of my colour!
They explained that they have been in the Trust for a long time and never got opportunities to progress, also that leadership is natured and we already know who the next Band 6 will be. I had observed the latter happening, but it never occurred to me that it was a racial discrimination thing. I was determined more than ever to want to progress but wasn’t sure how, but when I looked at university courses in respiratory conditions, I later learnt that the Trust would fund this.
I then applied for a Practice Development Nurse post advertised as I realised it's what I was passionate about; supporting staff and facilitating training in the Respiratory ward. I wasn’t confident as I had my doubts as mentioned by my colleagues and got in touch with the EDI lead. She was very encouraging and challenged me to apply for the post. To my surprise I got the post and the feedback after the interview was that I was the best in the interview. This boosted my confidence and I have never looked back.
What role, if any, do you think that race has played in your career progression?
In this instance, none, because I applied for a position that was new to the Trust and believe that I got the job because I was the best candidate. The interview was on Microsoft Teams and it didn’t work so I ended up being interviewed, presenting a PowerPoint presentation via a telephone conversation!
Did you have a mentor or role model?
Not a particular one, but I have watched my seniors and looked up to them
Do you have any tips for interviews and career progression?
My best tip is: once you know what you want, don’t let other people’s negative opinions based on their past experiences discourage you from reaching your goals.
Have a coach, this will definitely help you to clarify your career progression. Grab every opportunity there is to shadow senior members and attend courses that will help you in senior roles.
What qualities are essential in your position?
Approachability, confidence, adaptability, being non-judgemental
Why Gloucestershire?
I studied in Gloucester and attended all my placements here so I decided to be in an environment that was familiar.
Please sum yourself up in 3 words or phrases
Approachable, Confident, Empathetic