Belinda Minnaar, Chief Nursing Officer, The Princess Grace Hospital
Beginning her career at HCA UK as a staff nurse at The Princess Grace Hospital, Belinda has been an integral part of the team since 2004. Today, as part of #InternationalNursesDay, and a week of celebrations, we’re sharing Belinda’s story of growth and what a career in nursing means to her.
Young ambitions
“I used to visit my mum who was a matron at a hospital and I was just in awe of what she did. From a very young age, probably as young as 13 I volunteered and helped with teas, coffee, companionship for the elderly at the hospital. Going into nursing just felt like a natural progression and expectation as two of my four sisters were also nurses.
“I started university through the Airforce at the age of 17 in South Africa and my aim was to travel as soon as I finished so when I graduated, I jumped at the chance to come to the UK through NHS recruitment and sponsorship. That was in 1998. I have not looked back!
“I have had amazing mentors throughout my career that saw my potential and drive, this absolutely shaped the leader I am today, and I am eternally grateful.
“Over the past 21 years I have grown alongside HCA UK. From frontline nursing to senior leadership, I have seen and experienced first had the exceptional dedication, compassion and skill that defines our nurses. Our nurses are not just care givers; they are educators, innovators and advocates who put patients at the heart of everything that they do. It's an absolute privilege to be part of that team and I am immensely proud to be a nurse.
“The last 21 years have been the most rewarding time of my life, personally I have raised three children, and professionally I have gone on a journey of growth and leadership, making so many invaluable connections along the way.”
Making a meaningful impact, everyday
“I love the opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day. Supporting the teams, shaping safe and compassionate care and creating a culture where nurses feel heard, valued and empowered. Being able to influence both patient outcomes and our colleague experience is a privilege I never take for granted.
“I can’t quite believe I’ve gone full circle, starting my career at The Princess Grace Hospital as a staff nurse, and 21 years later returning as Chief Nursing Officer. In between all of this, I have met some incredible colleagues and taken mentorship from tremendous individuals who have influenced the leader I am today.”
“My advice for others who are looking to a career in nursing is to follow your passion, you will be joining one of the most rewarding and impactful professions. Nurses starting their careers at HCA UK are not doing aa job, they are building a career with endless opportunities for growth, learning and leadership. You are supported by a network that value your voice, invest in your development and empower you to thrive.”
Are you inspired by Belinda’s journey?
Belinda’s story is just one of many examples of growth within HCA UK. For our nurses, that makes it a genuinely inspiring place to build a career. Join a team where your voice will be heard, your efforts recognized and where compassion is at the heart of all we do.
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At HCA UK we recognise the value of candidates who have served in the Armed Forces. As proud signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant we welcome applications from both Armed Forces Veterans and Armed Forces Reservists.
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