Finding my place as a Black physiotherapist trained in Africa

As a Black physiotherapist trained in Africa, working in a highly specialised and predominantly White profession, my journey has been both rewarding and challenging. 

Alongside developing my clinical expertise, I have often found myself navigating questions about my identity and credibility. 

One of the most common questions I am asked is, 'Where did you train?' While usually well-intentioned, being asked this repeatedly can sometimes feel like my qualifications are being assessed before my expertise is recognised. 

Another familiar phrase is, 'I'm going to struggle to pronounce your name.' Although not always meant negatively, hearing this regularly can be exhausting. Names are deeply connected to our identity, and the willingness to learn and pronounce them correctly can make a significant difference in helping people feel valued and included. 

My heritage remains an important part of who I am, while my experiences in the UK have shaped me in many meaningful ways. I feel privileged to draw on the strengths of both cultures, enriching both my personal life as a mum, friend and member of the community as well as my professional practice. 

At times, progressing in my career has felt like running the same race as everyone else while facing additional hurdles. 

There can be an unspoken pressure to continually prove competence, challenge assumptions, and demonstrate that your place in highly specialised settings has been earned. 

The reality is that many internationally trained professionals spend part of their careers jumping through hoops that others may never see. 

Despite these challenges, I have continued to advance in my profession. Every opportunity, achievement, and leadership role has represented not only personal growth but also the breaking of barriers and challenging perceptions of what a Black physiotherapist trained in Africa can achieve. 

I am currently a senior physiotherapist pursuing a clinical academic career, funded by the NIHR and supported by King's College London through supervision, training, and professional development. This achievement represents the fulfilment of a dream that many believed was beyond my reach and serves as a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and self-belief. 

A key source of support has been the CSP BAME network. It provides a safe space where members can share experiences, learn from one another, and find encouragement. Through these conversations, we support each other in navigating challenges and identifying ways to inspire positive change within our workplaces. 

My journey has taught me that diversity is not just about representation. It is about creating environments where people feel they truly belong, can thrive, and are valued for the strengths and perspectives they bring.