The first thing I would say about myself is that I care, a lot. Maybe a bit too much at times but that’s because I love what I do. I want to do the best job I can every day, and I class every day as a school day. Otherwise, things get boring very quickly. I really love people. Being a people person can bring as many challenges as it does rewards. Taking a negative experience, turning it around and finding a positive result is absolutely my happy place. A passion for people comes, at least in part, from my musical leanings. Playing as part of an orchestra, a band or a quartet to me means being sensitive to those around you. Taking visual cues, the sense of community, a willingness to compromise and share ideas and opinions - all transfer to everyday life really easily and successfully. It’s also what led me to become involved with our LGBTQ+ Colleague Network, initially as a member. Having an identity and feeling comfortable in that identity at work is so important to us all, and seeing people like me represented across very different teams and departments is a very powerful motivator. I’m really proud of my tenure on the NHSBSA's Shadow Board, and being a Co-Chair of the LGBTQ+ Network which came with that. I love the prospect of a challenge - fail fast, learn from it and come back stronger could be my motto. Although it’s a little too ‘Management speak’ for me, it does get across what makes me tick. I like to look at what we do and see how we can make it even better. A little change can really make all the difference. I’m lucky to have had some amazing managers and mentors throughout my career. The time, interest and genuine wish to see me flourish that was invested in me has really rubbed off and I always try to return that favour whenever I can. I think it’s clear that I’m a mostly positive person. That doesn’t mean every day is sunny and cloud-free. I’ve had my share of struggles and down times too, and they all go in to making me what I am and shaping the person I hope my family are proud of. But life is short - I want to get as much from it as humanly possible and if I can make other people happy along the way, or make an impact through the work I do, then I’m ok with that!