Published on: 11 August 2025
Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has been shortlisted a record eight times at a national awards scheme run by the Asian Professionals’ National Alliance (APNA NHS). APNA champions equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace, to visibly make a difference to the NHS and its diverse workforce. 
The nominees are:
- Nicole Ellis – Project Manager, Change & Transformation – Making Room for Dignity
- Brighton Makombe – Mental Health Nurse
- Nicole Vutabwarova – Assistant Director of Clinical Digital Practice
- Arzoo Nasir – Community Psychiatric Nurse
- Sifo Dlamni – Clinical and Operations Project Manager for the Trust’s Making Room for Dignity programme
- Kalwran Sangha – Clinical and Operational Lead, Occupational Therapist
- Living Well Programme Team
Ateeq Hussain, Head of Procurement at the Trust was nominated for an award for his work in his previous role at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.
The awards recognise individuals and teams who have demonstrated excellence, leadership and dedication to equality, diversity and inclusion, making a significant impact on healthcare and their communities.
Mark Powell, Chief Executive, said: “It’s a privilege to see our colleagues recognised nationally for their outstanding contributions to equality, diversity and inclusion across the NHS.
“The APNA NHS Awards shine a light on the tireless efforts of individuals who go above and beyond to create a fairer, more inclusive healthcare system. Being shortlisted is a testament to the impact they’ve made – not just within our Trust, but across the wider community.”
The winners will be revealed at the APNA NHS Awards ceremony on 16 October 2025.
For more information about the APNA NHS Awards, visit https://apna-nhs.org/.
