18 July marks Black Leaders Awareness Day which recognises the contributions of black leaders to society throughout history. It is a chance to recognise and celebrate the contributions of black NHS colleagues in leaderships roles and inspire future generations.

To mark the day, NELFT is sharing Dean Rufai’s story, who has been a qualified mental health nurse for 13 years, six of those at NELFT. He is the Team Manager at SET-CAMHS for Thurrock (Southend, Essex, and Thurrock Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service). He said:

“I chose to work at NELFT due to my alignment with the Trust values of compassion, respect, and commitment to quality care for all individuals, regardless of their background.

The SET-CAMHS team provides advice and support to children, young people and families who are in need of support with their emotional wellbeing or mental health difficulties.  Dean said:

“Working as a team manager in CAMHS, I have been driven by a multitude of inspirations. My passion for mental health as I have a deep interest in understanding mental health and a desire to promote well-being and resilience in young people.

“It is also driven by collaboration and teamwork as I enjoy working within a multidisciplinary team to provide holistic care and support to children and their families.

“Helping children and adolescents navigate mental health challenges has had a profound and lasting impact on their futures. Witnessing their growth and recovery was incredibly rewarding.”

Being a leader to others is an important role of a team manager. Dean said:

“I will describe myself as a genuine leader, who prides himself with a high degree of honesty, transparency, and integrity, staying true to my personal values and beliefs. I ensure build trust through consistent actions and open communication. I encourage creativity and new ideas, fostering an environment where innovation can thrive.

“My purpose is to invest in the growth and development of team members, provide guidance, feedback, and opportunities for learning.

“Being a leader and helping individuals to achieve their personal and professional goals is an important part of being a mentor and coach to me.”

Earlier this year, Dean won the Leadership award at the annual staff Make a Difference awards. He was nominated by multiple staff members and teams for leading by example, his dedication and commitment to the SET-CAMHS, excellent mentorship of students and colleagues, and showcasing best practice, especially in a leadership role. He said:

“The most rewarding part of my role promoting a supportive culture with a focus on staff well-being, mentorship, and a commitment to creating a positive working environment. I have witnessed my team grow immensely, and staff development through all sectors as been incredibly rewarding.

“Working at the Trust means being part of a diverse and inclusive work group that values equality and strives to represent the communities it serves.”

Outside of NELFT, Dean is also a leader in his community as an official FIFA recommended coach for under 10 football team. On Black Leaders Awareness Day, he offers advice to young people about what it takes to be a good leader:

“Bring yourself to the job, be authentic, be fair, follow policies and procedures but don’t forget your humanity.

“Some qualities of a good leader are being fair, aware of individual capabilities and difficulties, using initiative, thinking ahead, having a vision for your team, supporting development, and being able to have difficult conversations.”