Inspirational Story

Misbah Ahmed

Name: Misbah Ahmed

Role: Physiotherapist at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust

What subjects did you study at school?

At A-Levels I completed Sport Studies, Information technology, sociology and religious education. Leading onto applying for (Bsc) Physiotherapy at University.

What influenced your choice of profession?

Physiotherapy was not very popular or considered as a normal career to go into when I was growing up. Especially in a South Asian community.

I independently started to look at different careers that would suit me as an individual. I came across Physiotherapy and what had influenced my choice of profession was the understanding of having the ability to help maximise a persons strength, movement and to optimise and promote independence.

Although this career was not seen as the “norm” I broke down the barrier and found work experience related to Physiotherapy. As soon as I had finished my work experience I knew this was the career for me.

 

What were your thoughts before and after starting the course/your role?

I was nervous before starting as I had no idea what to expect, however once I was on the course, I knew this was the right decision for me.

By seeing someone improve and recover from the treatment that I have provided is reassuring and makes me enjoy my role daily

What do you love about your role?

I love being able to help contribute to improving a persons health and wellbeing and promoting independence. By seeing someone improve and recover from the treatment that I have provided is reassuring and makes me enjoy my role daily.

 

What does your role look like day to day?

My day to day role consists of meeting new patients every day, seeing new faces.

Completing assessments which consists of getting background information to gather and understand reasoning behind why this patient needs Physiotherapy.

Also then completing a physical assessment to provide advice and treatment plans to patients to help manage the problems.

As a rotational Physiotherapist I am fortunate to be able to experience several different areas of Physiotherapy. This allows me to assess and treat patients in a hospital setting, outpatients setting and also working in the community.

 

How you come to be in the position you are in now?

I consistently work hard to achieve my goals, I am dedicated to my job and enjoy working as a Physiotherapist. Also the term “never give up, no matter how hard it gets” has driven me to consistently achieve and progress  further in my career.

 

If there is anything specific you would like to share about South Asian Heritage Month?

South Asian Heritage is about reclaiming the history and identity of British South Asians and this month should help to educate people around the importance of this.

The value of representation

Having the opportunity to witness and see representation of myself on the national physiotherapy avatar, was a very powerful and validating experience. It helps to feel a sense of belonging and break down stereotypes and misconceptions. Representation is extremely important for me as this can challenge societal norms and promote inclusivity. Hopefully encouraging others to embrace diversity and foster a more inclusive and accepting world. It’s amazing to see how a small yet impartial avatar can have such a big impact. Representation matters and it’s wonderful to appreciate the efforts of those who create inclusive avatars. Thank you!

Want to know more?

Find out about the role of a Physiotherapist, where they work and what they do

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