Adefunke Ogbeta: Apprentice of the Year
Adefunke Ogbeta, who works as a Support Time and Recovery Worker with the Lewisham Enhanced Recovery Team, has been recognised for her exceptional contributions by winning the LHSW Apprentice of the Year Award.
Making a Difference in the Community
In her role, Adefunke supports patients referred to her by nurses, doctors, and psychologists by providing essential non-clinical assistance. This includes helping individuals register for benefits, enrol in education, or engage in meaningful community activities.
Adefunke told us:
I’ve helped someone enrol in college, encouraged another to pursue their love of football, and even taken a patient to London Zoo for the first time.
Her work goes beyond practical support. Adefunke often acts as a compassionate companion, particularly for patients who lack family or social support. One example was a terminally ill patient she supported until his final moments, attending to his needs in hospital and even being present at his funeral.
She said:
Hearing my name mentioned in his eulogy as someone who stood by him was incredibly moving.
Excellence in Apprenticeship
Adefunke is currently undertaking a two-year Apprentice Nursing Associate course, which she started in 2023. Her journey into healthcare began with a dream she had as a child in Africa, admiring the nurses she saw dressed in white uniforms with red belts.
When the opportunity to pursue her passion arose at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, she embraced it. Balancing work, study, and personal commitments, Adefunke has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership. She became the leader of her study group, organising extra lessons and mentoring her peers.
Adefunke said:
I didn’t nominate myself to lead the group. It just happened naturally. I love helping others, and it’s fulfilling to see my classmates succeed with my support.
From Recognition to Success
Adefunke’s impact didn’t go unnoticed. A colleague, whom she had supported during exam preparation, took the initiative to nominate her for the Apprentice of the Year Award. Soon, classmates, colleagues, and even her line manager rallied behind her nomination, submitting outstanding testimonials about her dedication, compassion, and positive influence.
The news of her shortlisting came while she was on annual leave in Nigeria. “I was overwhelmed when I received the email,” she said. Returning to the UK, she attended the award ceremony, where her name was announced as the winner.
Looking Ahead
As she enters the second year of her apprenticeship, Adefunke remains committed to her mission of making a difference in patients’ lives. She credits her success to her passion for caring and the support of her colleagues and mentors.
Adefunke states:
Winning this award is not just a recognition of my work but also a reminder of why I chose this path. It’s all about supporting people to live better lives.
Her achievements shine a spotlight on the importance of apprenticeships in empowering individuals to achieve their dreams while making a difference in our communities.
For more information on Apprenticeship, visit: https://slam.nhs.uk/apprenticeships
