Respecting individual choices, and accepting individuality
As part of South Asian Heritage Month, we caught-up with Gladys Rodrigues, Practice Educator, to find out what her South Asian heritage means to her.
Hi, my name is Gladys, and I am a Practice Educator working in the corporate Education team. I joined the North Mid family nearly 3 years ago, and what a journey it has been.
I hail from the Southern part of India and take pride in the rich South Indian culture. I was born and brought up in Trichy and then crossed the border to Bengaluru to pursue higher education. Later I married a Konkan and embraced a new south Asian culture altogether.
South Indian culture goes beyond just being a part of my identity; it shapes my values and outlook towards life.
Growing up in a catholic household, it was very disciplined and strict especially when it came to academics. I always used to say my dad behaved like he was in the military. My family was not well off, but they went above and beyond to ensure we got the best.
My parents used to celebrate all the Indian festivals at home and I always looked forward to these occasions. There was never a day that we missed mass at church or evening prayers. Both parents told me stories of how their faith has always been a guiding light in challenging times.
Asian culture means more to me than just a collection of traditions. It emphasises more on love, unity and the value and respect for elders. These values have been instilled in me right through my childhood. I proudly embrace and cherish my South Indian heritage as it helps me appreciate the beauty of diversity.
North Mid caters to a multi-diverse group of staff and patients from different backgrounds, which made the working transition here much easier for me; making me feel welcome.
Diversity means adopting different cultures, respecting individual choices, and accepting individuality. I believe that everyone should challenge themselves to listen, share, learn and embrace differences, throughout the world.