Nursing Apprentice wins Diversity and Inclusion Award at Student Nursing Times Ceremony

A University of Salford Apprentice scooped the highly prized Mary Seacole Award for Outstanding Contribution to Diversity and Inclusion at the Student Nursing Times Awards on Friday.

Apprentice Nursing Associate Oriyomi Aminu from the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation won the much coveted category, with judges praising his values and approach to work.

“Oriyomi is a testament to the Student Nursing Associate programme and emulates the values of Mary Seacole in his day to day practice” they said. Yomi has studied at The University of Salford for the past 2 years as part of his role as a Trainee Nursing Associate at the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust.

Commenting on the win, Yomi said: “My heart is filled with joy. Receiving this award fills me with immense gratitude, but more than that, it fuels my passion and commitment to continue championing equality and inclusion in every aspect of our lives. Mary Seacole’s legacy inspires me to defy barriers, challenge injustices and stand up for what is right, regardless of the obstacles we may face.

My time at the University of Salford has been incredibly valuable, helping me learn how to truly integrate diversity and inclusion in both academic and healthcare worlds.

“It’s great that the SNTAs have recognised the importance of diversity and inclusion by giving it an award category of its own – a great sign for the future. Thank you again for the kind words, it was lovely to celebrate the Award with all my Uni of Salford colleagues on Friday too.”

The Awards celebrate and recognise the outstanding achievements of student nurses, midwives and nursing associates and educators around the country. Our nursing and midwifery directorate team had no less than five nominations in total, and Director of Nursing and Midwifery Karen Heggs had warm words of praise for everyone involved.

“I am thrilled with the recognition we had on Friday at the Awards, and Yomi’s achievement is richly deserved. Many congratulations to all our nominees, whose hard work and dedication is awe inspiring. Thank you so much to you all. Roll on next year’s competition!”