From Cultural Riches to Professional Heights: A South Asian’s NHS Experience
South Asian Heritage Month is the month-long celebration in the South Asian diaspora to celebrate the heritage of people with roots in the South Asian countries of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan and the Maldives. The month is held annually from July 18th to August 17th to honour, recognise and appreciate South Asian history and culture, as well as comprehend the rich cultural legacy.
It is an opportunity for everyone to appreciate the countries in South Asia and learn new things about heritage, culture and diversity within our region.
Karandeep Singh Bhasin, from County Durham and Darlington NHS Trust, Programme Support Manager, shares his leadership journey:
As South Asian Heritage Month begins, I take a moment to look back on my own journey as an Indian working in the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). My name is Karandeep Singh Bhasin, and I am proud to be a Programme Support Manager at the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust and chair the Ethnic Minority Staff Network group. This blog is a testament to the diverse experiences, challenges, and accomplishments of South Asians like myself in both clinical and non-clinical roles within the NHS. It is an opportunity to celebrate our heritage, break stereotypes, and inspire others to pursue their passions and contribute to the society.
The NHS, founded with the core principle of accessibility and equality, has been a catalyst for my professional growth. My professional journey began as a Flight Attendant Manager for a renowned international airline based in Mumbai and eventually transitioned into Human Resources. I felt a calling to pursue a Master’s degree as the next step in my growth. This decision led me to the UK, where I graduated from the University of Sheffield with a Master of Business Administration. I was drawn to the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives through healthcare. Pursuing my passion, I joined the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust as a Graduate Management Trainee Service Manager, embodying the NHS’s ethos of equal access to quality healthcare. I am inspired by the legacy of the service that has been ingrained in our culture for generations. The NHS’s founding principle aligns closely with the teachings of selfless service and compassion found in Indian traditions. It is a privilege to carry forward this legacy and make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.
One of the joys of being a South Asian in the NHS is the opportunity to share my rich cultural heritage with colleagues. Whether it’s sharing stories from the past, explaining cultural traditions, or introducing colleagues to the flavours of Indian cuisine, the curiosity and eagerness to learn from my colleagues have been heart-warming. Growing up with Punjabi roots, I have been instilled with the value of humility and moral principles. In the ‘Guru Granth’, the holy book of the Sikhs, there is a teaching that says “Mann Neeva Matt Uchi,” which translates to being humble and elevated in thinking and moral values. I have carried these values into my professional life, particularly in my role as a part of healthcare improvement programme. Conflict is inevitable, but by staying true to my values and setting aside ego, I have been able to navigate working relationships with humility, respect, and effective communication. These values have not only helped me succeed professionally but have also contributed to fostering a harmonious work environment.
One of the prevailing stereotypes is that South Asians in the NHS are primarily involved in clinical roles. However, my experience as a non-clinical management professional challenges this misconception. I have had countless encounters where people automatically assumed I was a clinician, only to be pleasantly surprised when I introduced myself as a non-clinical professional. As a South Asian, I am determined to break stereotypes and showcase the vast range of opportunities available in non-clinical roles within the NHS. I believe that the NHS values experience and transferable skills from diverse backgrounds. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to pursue their passions within the NHS, regardless of their cultural or geographical background.
As South Asian Heritage Month unfolds, let us remember the noble vision upon which the NHS was established in 1948—to provide healthcare based on needs, not on the ability to pay. This month is an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of South Asians in the NHS and to recognize the contributions we make in both clinical and non-clinical roles. Together, let us continue to challenge stereotypes, embrace our cultural heritage, and ensure that the NHS remains a beacon of healthcare equality for all.