My journey to becoming a registered nurse at NHSBT started thousands of miles from the UK. It took determination, courage, and a deep commitment to care.

When I arrived in the UK as an international nurse, I felt both hopeful and unsure. While I waited for my Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) registration, I started working as a Donor Carer with NHSBT. It was a humbling time. I had years of nursing experience, but stepping into a support role felt very different. Still, I saw it as an important step toward my future.

The donor carer role gave me more than I expected. I learned about teamwork, professionalism, and how NHSBT treats every donor with care and respect. I built confidence, made real connections, and got to know the values of the organisation in a deeper way.

Every session reminded me why I chose this path. Each unit of blood we collected could help save a life. Even before I was working as a nurse again, I was already making a difference.

When I finally received my NMC registration, I felt proud, excited and a little nervous. Starting my new role as a registered nurse felt like beginning again, but this time, I wasn’t alone.

My colleagues were supportive and genuinely happy for me.

Because of my time as a Donor Carer, I felt more prepared. I stepped into clinical work with a solid foundation. It helped me feel ready for patient care, decision-making and daily responsibilities.

Now, I am a registered nurse and also part of a pilot programme for new Band 5 nurses at NHSBT. I support my colleagues, keep learning, and look back on my journey with pride.

It wasn't always easy, but it was worth every step.

To other donor carers waiting for registration, I want to say, keep going.

Every day you show up, you are building your future. Watch, learn and grow. You’re already part of something special here.