Black History Month is a celebration of heritage, a source of inspiration, and an opportunity to inspire future generations. It reminds me of the importance of acknowledging and valuing the contributions of black individuals, not just during this month but throughout the entire year.
For me, this month is an opportunity to reflect deeper into the opportunities that have shaped my career as a black employee of Cygnet and to recognise the support that has been available to support my development.
I started my career in Cygnet as a Registered Manager and was responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a residential service. My role required a keen eye for detail, strong organisational skills, and a compassionate approach to managing both staff and residents. I excelled in creating a warm, welcoming environment and ensuring that all aspects of the home ran smoothly.
I had opportunities for professional development, including training sessions and workshops. I also had the opportunity to attend several senior management events, which accorded me the opportunity to meet with the senior management teams.
With each new learning opportunity, I expanded my skillset and deepened my understanding of quality assurance principles. I began to take on additional responsibilities, such as conducting internal audits and developing improvement plans.
Throughout this journey, I received invaluable support from colleagues and senior management. Senior managers provided guidance and shared their expertise, helping me navigate the complexities of service management. My team members offered encouragement and collaborated with me on various projects, fostering a culture of teamwork and mutual respect.
As I continued to grow in my role, the opportunity to join the Quality Assurance team arose and I applied and was successful for the role of the Regional Quality Manager. In this new position, I am responsible for overseeing the quality management system at site level, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulatory standards of eight Social Care services within the organisation.
Today, as a Regional Quality Assurance Manager, I continue to support services with integrity and a commitment to excellence. My journey from Registered Home Manager to Regional Quality Assurance Manager is a testament to the support I have received from colleagues, my managers and the organisation as a whole, and the equal opportunities that have been available to me in the form of training, and the unwavering support of those around me, and most importantly, the fact that I embraced the opportunities without doubting my ability.
The support I received along the way was instrumental to my success. My managers provided insights and advice, helping me develop the skills needed to excel in my new role. My team’s collaboration and dedication are key to achieving my goals and maintaining high standards.
In the bustling corridors of our workplace, there lies a wealth of opportunities to be seized. For many of us the journey to professional growth can be daunting, but it is a path worth taking, especially for my Black colleagues who bring unique perspectives and invaluable contributions to our organisation.
To all my Black colleagues, I celebrate you during this Black History Month. Know that your voice matters and your growth is vital to the collective success of the organisation. Embrace the opportunities available to you — whether it’s a training programme, a mentorship, or a new project. Seek out mentors who can support you on your journey. Remember, every step you take towards your professional development is a step towards a brighter future for yourself and for those who will follow in your footsteps.
Let’s continue to support each other, celebrate our achievements, and strive for excellence together. Your potential is limitless, and the opportunities are here for the taking. Let’s make the most of them.
Let the celebration continue, not just during this month but throughout the entire year.