#ThisIsMe - Ceylan Cennet
#ThisIsMe – Ceylan Cennet
“We are at a very challenging time with diversity. For me it’s what connects people. It’s what connects us to the world with all our different languages, cultures as well as all our similarities. It is a topic that I have at heart.”
Words by Ceylan Cennet
My name is Ceylan (pronounced Jay-lan; (C’s are pronounced as J in Turkish). I am a Turkish Cypriot and I have always lived in Edmonton, London. I am the eldest of 8 siblings (yes, the television set was working) and I am a single mum of one gorgeous boy.
I am currently work in the sexual health department as one of the band 7’s.
Like many of us my story started at birth. I was born here in North Middlesex Hospital in the year of… (not telling).
I was a student nurse at North Middlesex and after a few years of qualifying, I came back and haven’t looked back.
Being a sexual health nurse
Being a sexual health nurse since 2017 is a unique and rewarding role. With blended compassion, education, and advocacy. My role empowers individuals to have open conversations about topics which are often stigmatised.
Sexual health is not just about giggles and laughs. There is also a much deeper level. We see patients with FGM, abuse, sex trafficked, transitioning genders, sex workers and children being abused, groomed or in gangs.
I believe sexual health nurses are the hidden gems of the NHS. We have a very complex role and are equally skilled. The magic of the role lies in building trust with our diverse community, from teenagers to seniors, helping them to navigate their sexual health journeys. I am truly honoured to have received the ‘Unsung Hero’ award this year at the Trust awards.
I truly and absolutely love my job!
Diversity: connecting people
We are at a very challenging time with diversity. For me it’s what connects people. It’s what connects us to the world with all our different languages, cultures as well as all our similarities. It is a topic that I have at heart.
As a young girl it was diversity/inclusivity that made me want to become a nurse. It all started after observing a painful incident with my dad who faced racial discrimination. I remember it like it was yesterday. We were in our front drive putting our shopping inside when I saw my next-door neighbours come out and start shouting at my dad, ‘Go back home to your country – you’re not wanted here', ‘you filthy foreigner are making our road look dirty’. This was not the first time. My dad did not say a word. It was so disheartening to see him look so upset and hurt. He came over to the UK at the age of 17 and has worked endlessly to have what he has. That’s when I knew I wanted to be a nurse. To fix his broken heart and to make him proud.
North Middlesex is a wonderful place to work as it has always embraced cultural diversity, but we still have a lot to work to do.
As members of the Trust and the community we serve I hope by sharing our experiences we can use our privileges to advocate for justice. Whether by speaking up against discriminatory behaviours or supporting policies that promote inclusivity. This collective action can only help dismantle inequalities but also builds a stronger, more compassionate Trust.
When we stand in solidarity with those affected by discrimination, we create a ripple effect that encourages others to do the same, ultimately paving the way where everyone can thrive and belong.
What makes me ‘Me’
I am only 4’11” so you can barely see me in the crowd lol… I love pink, glitter and lots of sweet treats especially chocolate and ice-cream. You will normally always see me with a ‘shopping-trolley’. My little brother always makes fun of me, but I only have one back and I need to take care of it.
I think my superpower is my determination and my ability to love oneself. Not in an egotistic way but I am a strong believer in the importance of wellbeing and self-care. Every month the first thing I do when I get paid is book myself a facial and a massage.
We need to fix our own oxygen masks. We are no use to anyone if we’re running on empty. Caring for ourselves is not selfish. A quote I love is from Audre Lorde, ‘I have come to the belief that caring for myself is not self-indulgent. It is self-preservation’.
Day off from work, a facial and a massage would be lovely. Followed by a lazy duvet day of watching films with a big tub of ice-cream and popcorn and chocolate and crisps.
Challenges
I think my past, present and future challenge is fighting self-destruction and imposter syndrome.
Losing my virginity by being raped has been my own personal challenge. I hope by sharing my story this can raise awareness and change. To remind ourselves and others about the importance of consent and respect.
No means no; not maybe.
I am not a rape victim I am a rape survivor.
Language is so important, and we need to change the narrative so survivors feel safe and validated so they can process their experience, rebuild self-esteem and be an advocate for others. We need to be brave and speak up for those who are unable to. We need to enable survivors to gain inner strength and resilience. We need to raise more awareness.
Some people ask me if I feel caring for my son is a ‘challenge’. My son is currently 7 years of age and has autism and other medical conditions. At present he is non-verbal, but I am hoping with the right support in place he will speak one day.
Caring for my son is not a challenge at all. If anything, he is a profound gift in my life. While our communication is not through spoken words, our bond speaks volumes through hand holding (when he lets me), smiles and shared moments of joy.
He has taught me to see the world though his eyes. He teaches me patience, empathy, and the beauty of simple pleasures. Each achievement, no matter how small, feels monumental and fills my heart with pride. This summer he has verbally said ‘Peppa Pig’. Am I jealous he didn’t say mum first? No..! I am delighted that I have finally heard his cute little voice I have so long waited for. My son’s presence in my life is a precious reminder of the different ways we can express and experience love.
Women’s Network
I am truly honoured to be a co-chair of the Women’s Network in the Trust alongside the fabulous Dawn (who works in Alexander Pringle Centre). It is not just a personal achievement but a commitment to empowering women. We hope that each voice is heard, each story is valued, and opportunities are abundant. Together we hope to uplift, empower, and advocate for all women.
We will be looking at the gender pay gap, career progression, flexible working alongside the menopause policies and the sexual health charter.
Thank you’s
Colette Datt and Emma Zarif, who are both inspirational leaders to many and have helped me throughout my leadership journey. They have always encouraged me to thrive and be my authentic self (with just a little less pink glitter lol).
Sam Latty, who is my well-being top up Queen. Whenever I am feeling low, or my imposter syndrome kicks in she is always there for me. Always. She is not just my colleague but my bestie for life.
Manal and the co-chairs of the Trust Networks, for all their support and for sharing the same visions in improving EDI in the Trust.
Islam (my religion)
Our Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him) has provided me with a quote for life. ‘Even a smile is charity’. Which is something I live by. Smiling makes us happy. Smiling is how we communicate. Smiling is beautiful. #Smile for Humanity.
We thank Ceylan for taking part in our #ThisIsMe blog series which focuses on the incredible diversity of our workforce across North Mid, beyond the usual protected characteristics of age, disability, ethnicity, religious beliefs, gender, sex, and sexual orientation.
Please help us encourage colleagues to do the same by sharing this post.
Feel free to share any feedback or comments. If you wish to share your own story or think you know colleagues who might want to share their experiences about diversity, please contact our communications team @northmid.comms@nhs.net.
If you need support regarding the sensitive details discussed in this article, please reach out to our wellbeing team .
For helpful information on rape and sexual assault, please visit https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/help-after-rape-and-sexual-assault/ .