“We still live in a world that is not equal” - Hear from Dr Elizabeth Calderbank on International Women's Week | Latest news

Dr Elizabeth Calderbank came to the UK from Cuba in 2005. She’d graduated as a doctor in Havana in 1994 and as a 1st grade specialist in Family Health in 1999. Despite barriers, bias and setbacks, her sheer grit and determination saw her climb her way up the organisation to her current position - BAME Strategy Project Manager for NUH.

In her eight years at NUH, Elizabeth has worked tirelessly for the betterment of staff and patients from BAME backgrounds. She’s coached colleagues across all disciplines and witnessed and supported their moves up the ladder. Data shows that the BAME Strategy Project is making steady but good progress.

“International Women’s Day has a huge significance because it’s the day that showcases all our achievements. It highlights not only the contribution women make to our society but most importantly the contribution international women like myself and many others make in the UK particularly in the NHS. On the other hand, it emphasises on the need to act on issues women still are facing in the 21st century on a daily basis, such as the gender pay-gap and gender inequality. We must keep fighting for women’s equality.

“As a woman and BAME, I am at a great disadvantage by default. No matter how far we have come or how hard we are fighting, we still live in a world that is not equal. I have applied for certain positons in the past where bias towards male candidates was very prominent.

My ethnicity and country of origin has also set me back. Coming from Cuba has been a huge political barrier that stopped me from obtaining a licence to practice as a UK doctor, bringing my medical career to a painful end. This barrier had huge implications mentally, emotionally and financially, as a result, I felt lost for a long time. I never gave up; I applied for positions and joined countless training opportunities, and did lots of research and hard work to build a professional network. There have been lots of challenges and very difficult moments but also there have been great opportunities given to me that I have embraced with both hands.

“I hope all the work we are doing today will mean that by the time today’s little girls grow up, they will have the opportunity to live in an equal world and won’t have to endure the bias and inequalities of today. Let’s keep doing all the brilliant work we women do on a daily basis. We know that juggling a family, a career and work is not an easy task but we are more than capable of doing it. We need to keep on trying, and keep on fighting for what you feel is right for you; don’t put up with any nonsense and more importantly keep educating yourself. Knowledge is power! And always remember be strong enough to stand alone and smart enough to know when you need help, and brave enough to ask for it”.