Dedicated adult nursing graduate Nsiku Banda is celebrating after winning a special award and a distinction for his Masters from Edge Hill University.
Nsiku, from Knowsley, was named Star Student Nurse by Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (LUHFT) for his hard work while on placement there, he was also offered a job and he now works in Aintree Hospital’s Acute Cardiac Care Unit.
“I believe I won this award because I am passionate about providing the best level of care with the right attitude, which I think is essential in nursing,” he said.
“I was nominated by my ward following written testimonials from patients about the quality of care I contributed.”
The 47-year-old previously worked in IT after completing a Masters degree in computer science and a BA in computing and business. But after working as a Telehealthcare Officer for Halton Borough Council he was inspired to move into a more care-focussed profession.
Nsiku, known as Nathan to his friends, added: “I really loved my previous job because it combined both IT and healthcare skills but I started to feel a greater sense of achievement and fulfilment interacting with people with diverse needs, which made me want to pursue nursing at Masters level.
“Irrespective of my age and where I was at in life, I was determined to make a career change. I think I chose the right time for me because there is a shift going on, from nursing being a very female-led career to one where men are now able to provide a different perspective and help make some patients feel more comfortable.
“I am really enjoying this rewarding new career. I have gained confidence to think on my feet while continuing to provide high quality care to patients. To think that I was only a student two months ago and now I’m working in an acute setting gives me the urge to want to learn and achieve more each other day. I owe it to my family and personal tutors for their continued support and guidance, thank you.
“I chose Edge Hill University because of the wonderful and supportive tutors who can never do enough for the students and I was attracted by the serenity the University provides in terms of its beautiful landscapes and modern facilities – they made me want to be part of this wonderful community.”
Edge Hill University’s Faculty of Health, Social Care and Medicine offers a variety of nursing courses at undergraduate and postgraduate level, all approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council.
Nursing is an extremely challenging, rewarding and unique profession that involves a diverse range of skills and attributes, including being able to work independently and as part of a multi-professional team. As registered nurses, graduates from Edge Hill’s programmes enjoy excellent employment opportunities within the North West, throughout the UK and abroad.
December 7, 2021
