CALVIN was recently declared student nurse of the year at West Mid's annual nursing and midwifery awards. He was nominated by colleagues for being 'kind, compassionate and eager to learn' and for having 'all the essential qualities we take pride in and our patients deserve'.
How long have you been with the hospital?
I've been with West Middlesex University Hospital for the last three years, as a nursing student. The final exams are this month.
What does your role involve?
My role involves working under the supervision of mentors and the rest of the qualified staff, being involved in the administration of care to patients and promoting their recovery.
I also work alongside other members of the multi-disciplinary teams.
At the moment I'm studying very hard for my exams.
We hear you used to be in the army, please tell us more!
Yes, I was in the British Army and based in Wiltshire, where I completed five years of service. It was when I was given a desk job because of a knee injury that I realised that I wanted to look after people.
I've always had this inner passion to care for people and to put a smile on their face. I'm from Zimbabwe originally where I had the wonderful experience of looking after my grandmother. I remember finding this very satisfying.
Also, both my mother and my sister are qualified nurses. So, although I loved the army very much I suppose you could say I'm perhaps more of a carer than a fighter, which is why I decided to embark on nurse training.
I've never regretted that decision and so far, it's been absolutely amazing.
When you were in the army, were you abroad?
I served in Iraq in 2003, just as the war was starting. It was quite an interesting experience. I've also served
in countries such as Kenya and Germany.
It sounds like you're well travelled. Can you see yourself staying in the UK?
It's become like a second home to me now. I'm now a British citizen and my partner is British. I like it here, although sometimes I do miss the Zimbabwean sunshine!
Would you like to return to the army?
I might do as a military nurse. Most importantly, my experiences here at West Mid have taught me that I don't have to be in the army, as working in the forces can be just as engaging as in a hospital environment.
I've certainly enjoyed working here, it's second to none and the staff are excellent. If they'll have me, I might stay longer!
As a nurse, do you have any specialist interests?
I'm looking at specialising in ITU (intensive care unit). However, other areas are on the cards like tissue viability. I am very grateful to my mentors, who are all great people and certainly love their job.
What music do you enjoy listening to?
I enjoy listening to both old and contemporary music, sometimes
laid-back music when I'm not doing anything. I also enjoy a bit of jazz for relaxation and sometimes top it up with a little bit of gospel!
What are your hobbies?
I like keeping fit, including riding my bike, an odd jog and swimming at weekends. I really love basketball - I'm about 6ft 2ins so that helps a lot with the shoots.
I also like reading books. On the whole I endeavour to try and stay focused, keep healthy and the futile attempts to avoid the pies!
Talking of pies, do you like cooking?
I like cooking traditional meals. My mother has this recipe which involves cooking corn and making it into what is called sadza.
You make it like mashed potato and you serve it with either vegetables or meat on the side. I believe food is good for the soul.
