Queen and Horatio complete transformational leadership programme

Posted by Devon Partnership Trust in #ProudofDPT, News on 21st March, 2025

On Friday 14 March, Elizabeth (Queen) Okesola, Practice Educator, and Horatio Wolfe, Senior Night Nurse Practitioner, attended the Developing Aspirant Leadership (DALs) and Mary Seacole Graduation event in Swindon. The event brought together participants, mentors and NHS leaders to celebrate the achievements of those who completed the Mary Seacole Leadership Programme, which helps develop future NHS leaders.

Throughout the day, attendees shared insights, reflected on their leadership journeys and demonstrated how their learning has been put into practice.

Reflecting on the experience, Queen said: "I am proud and humbled to have completed the Mary Seacole Leadership Program as part of my DALs journey. This experience has been truly transformational and has challenged me to lead with courage, resilience and authenticity."

As part of her leadership development, Queen led a Quality Improvement Project to establish a standardised Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) training room, helping internationally educated nurses (IENs) build competence and confidence, ultimately improving patient care. Presenting this project at the event and receiving positive feedback was a highlight of her journey.

Horatio shared his thoughts, saying: "DALs and Mary Seacole have given me insight into leadership and management that I’ve never experienced before. I now have a greater understanding of the type of leader I am and the importance of being flexible and adaptable to support teams and individuals. Furthermore, I have a greater understanding of how I can ensure I am leading with compassion and inclusion for all staff and patients, so quality care can be delivered."

Both Queen and Horatio emphasised how the programme strengthened their commitment to compassionate and inclusive leadership, ensuring high-quality care and a positive workplace culture. Queen expressed gratitude to Joel Cutter, Associate Director of Nursing and Allied Professions and programme sponsor, Charli Kennedy, Preceptorship Lead and Queen's manager, the DALs programme facilitators, fellow DALs participants and the Mary Seacole facilitators for their support. Horatio shared his appreciation for Joel's continuous leadership, mentoring, guidance and coaching throughout the last year and said he felt honoured and privileged to be offered and supported by Jacky Francis, Service Director, to take part in this opportunity.

The graduation event was an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all participants and hear inspiring stories of leadership in action. It also allowed attendees to connect with NHS leaders and peers, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and shared learning in leadership development.

The award-winning DALs Programme supports ethnic minority nurses and midwives aspiring towards a senior leadership role. It provides participants with the skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively in a complex healthcare environment. The Mary Seacole Leadership Programme is a six-month leadership development initiative that focuses on compassionate and inclusive leadership through a combination of online study and face-to-face workshops.

As they step forward, Queen and Horatio are excited for new strategic leadership opportunities where they can apply their learnings and contribute to improving workforce development, patient care and service excellence.