Pauline turns tragedy into support for women’s health
Pauline Okhamesan, our Head of Midwifery and Lead Nurse for Women’s Health, has made a significant impact since joining us two years ago. She’s helped reduce health inequalities for women and their midwives, particularly for those from African and Caribbean backgrounds.
Pauline’s passion for midwifery led her to co-found the Society of African and Caribbean Midwives (SOAC), an organisation dedicated to supporting midwives through training, professional development, and cultural education. SOAC plays a crucial role in helping midwives navigate workplace challenges, assisting with investigations, and offering guidance on cultural sensitivities.
Her drive for change is deeply personal, following her own traumatic experience when she was new to the UK:
When I first came here, I lost my twins because of cultural differences and communication barriers with my healthcare team. They would be 29 years old today. I work tirelessly to ensure no other woman suffers as I did due to misunderstandings.
Pauline’s leadership in SOAC has seen several new programmes launched to help healthcare workers better understand and respect cultural differences around childbirth and connect new midwives with seasoned mentors for ongoing support.
It’s essential work, given that black women in the UK face significantly higher risks during pregnancy and childbirth. Pauline's efforts focus on reducing these inequalities and improving maternal health outcomes.
Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. Pauline was nominated by her peers for the Healthcare Coach Award for 2024, where she won the ‘Inspirational BAME’ award. Additionally, she was honoured with the Outstanding Humanitarian Service award at the Panache Global Entertainment Awards 2023.
Pauline's impact extends beyond clinical care, thanks to her passion for nurturing talent and growth by supporting her colleagues:
When I see potential in people, I help it grow. By supporting each individual, we can achieve so much more together.