SHE Relatable Leaders Career Insights Spotlight

The SHE Women’s Network Support Heal Empower is all about empowering, supporting and elevating our members, and inspiring future generations of female leaders. Across 2025 we will spotlight the careers journeys of some of our amazing members. Today we hear from Blerta Ilazi.

Blerta Ilazi , ReSTORE Program Lead

I am the ReSTORE Programme Lead, and a Health Inequalities Educator for the South Yorkshire Workforce and Training Hub and an advanced Nurse Practitioner in General Practice. My career has been shaped by a passion for healthcare, education, and workforce development, particularly in supporting healthcare professionals from the global majority group. From arriving in the UK as a refugee with no knowledge of English to leading initiatives that drive inclusion and equity, my journey has been defined by resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to making a lasting impact.

Early Career

My career in healthcare began as a healthcare support worker while preparing for university. Determined to give back to the country that had provided me refuge, I pursued nursing training, then advanced my studies in biomedical science, later becoming an advanced nurse practitioner. The transition to a new country came with many challenges, including language barriers and cultural adjustments, but these struggles reinforced my determination to succeed.

A defining moment in my journey was realising that education became my tool for empowerment. Through perseverance and hard work, I completed three University degrees, each strengthening my knowledge and advancing my career. Studying while working full-time required immense dedication, but each achievement reinforced my belief that education could open doors and transform lives.

Pivotal Moments

There have been many pivotal moments throughout my career; however, the following milestones have been particularly significant in shaping my professional trajectory.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, my dedication to safeguarding the most vulnerable patients was nationally recognized when I received the NHS England Safeguarding Award for my efforts in protecting the most vulnerable patients.

The most significant milestone in my career was founding the ReSTORE Programme in 2023, a refugee nursing initiative in South Yorkshire that helps refugee nurses return to the NHS workforce. Recognising the systemic barriers that prevent refugee healthcare professionals from resuming their careers, I worked to develop a structured pathway for training, integration, and employment. Seeing ReSTORE's success and the impact it had on both individuals and the NHS was one of the proudest moments of my career.

Additionally, I was awarded the GEMS: Hidden in Plain Sight (75@75) award, which highlights 75 health and social care professionals from Black, Asian, and other minoritised backgrounds in the UK who are making a significant difference in the sector but are often "hidden in plain sight."

In recognition of my contributions to healthcare and workforce inclusion, I had the honour of being invited to Buckingham Palace in 2023 to meet His Majesty The King, acknowledging my impact in advancing refugee workforce integration.

These milestones reflect my ongoing commitment to healthcare, education, and systemic change, demonstrating the transformative power of lived experience in shaping inclusive policies and practices.

Leadership Lessons

Throughout my career, I’ve learned the value of perseverance, shaped by my personal journey as a refugee. Resilience became essential as I faced challenges, from learning a new language to navigating a new culture. I learned to view obstacles as opportunities for growth, and building a support network of mentors and colleagues has kept me grounded through tough times.

Collaboration has also been key. In creating the ReSTORE Programme, I saw firsthand how working with diverse perspectives leads to meaningful change. Confidence, I’ve learned, comes from trusting in my abilities and staying true to my values. Celebrating small victories along the way has helped me build self-assurance throughout my career.

When facing challenges, I break them down into manageable tasks. Whether completing three degrees while working or launching a national initiative, staying focused on my long-term vision and adapting along the way has allowed me to overcome difficulties and continue progressing.

Advice for Others

For aspiring leaders, my advice is to stay focused on your long-term goals while embracing the journey. Set clear, achievable milestones and celebrate each step you take, no matter how small. Build a strong support network—surround yourself with mentors and peers who can guide, challenge, and encourage you. Don’t be afraid to take risks, but also be adaptable when things don’t go as planned. Learn from your mistakes and use them as stepping stones toward growth. And above all, lead with authenticity—stay true to your values and remember that leadership is about uplifting others as much as it is about personal success.

Closing Thought

Leadership is not about titles or positions; it’s about impact. True leaders use their experiences, struggles, and successes to drive meaningful change.

A quote or some advice that you found valuable

Throughout my career, I have focused on inspiring and empowering others, understanding that leadership is not just about personal success but about helping those around you grow. I am guided by the wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi: "Be the change you wish to see in the world." I hope my journey encourages others to believe in the power of resilience, perseverance, and determination to create a better future.

Editor: Asma Nafees SHE Women’s Network Support Heal Empower