Black History Month 2020: Shumi's story

This October, University Hospitals Dorset are celebrating Black History Month. As part of this, the BAME staff network will be sharing staff stories to raise awareness of the diversity in our NHS family.

Shumirai Matereke, Staff Nurse, Endoscopy, at Poole Hospital, talks to us about her job, her inspiration, her family and what she wants to celebrate this Black History Month.

What do you do on a typical day?

On a typical day I admit patients for their various procedures. I also work in the procedure rooms, assisting the endoscopists or supporting the patients during and after the procedures.

What or who inspired you to get into your job?

I wanted a different kind of challenge mixed with a good work life balance after being an Accident and Emergency nurse for 10 years.

Were there any black role models for you to aspire to at the time?

Not when I went for the job, I have been the only black person in the department for the past two years.

Is there a particular moment in time that defines you?

I moved to Australia by myself to further my career in emergency nursing and while I was there I learned I had got to a level where I was confident with my leadership skills, establishing myself in a new place and dealing with adversity as a minority in an unfamiliar place.

Have you had to overcome any racism at work?

I have had to overcome being the only different individual in the department and get over the stereotype that black people try to play the victim when they are underperforming and being overlooked.

What do you want to celebrate the most this Black History Month?

Being a proud strong black professional, despite labels and stereotypes.

Is there something in your personal/ private life that you'd like to share?

My three year old son! My greatest achievement.