"My name’s Michael. I’m originally from Nigeria, where I started my caring journey, before moving to the UK.
"A lifelong urge to help others has always guided me. That natural pull eventually led me into care and mental health. I chose to join Navigo because I wanted to be part of an organisation that truly values people – both the service users and the staff – and promotes recovery. Here, I get to make a difference in peoples lives. I’m learning and growing every single day. And this has helped me — I was named as Highly Commended in the Carer of the Year category at the North East Lincolnshire Health and Care Excellence Awards 2025.
"Stigma stands as one of the hurdles that Black and other ethnic communities face. Across Black communities, mental health topics are still whispered rather than spoken and a lingering fear of judgment keeps folks from seeking assistance.
"Then there’s the knot of misunderstanding: often people sense that their stories aren’t fully heard or reflected by the services meant for them. Language gaps, eroded trust and prior negative encounters add obstacles. That’s why representation and culturally-attuned care matter so much: they nurture trust and make clear that support isn’t exclusive but intended for everyone.
"To me, Black History Month feels like a pause button — a moment to reflect to celebrate and to learn. It stands as a tribute to the contributions and the unyielding resilience of people, from the trailblazers of the past to the innovators shaping today, while also pulling us back to the reality of how much ground we’ve covered.
"And how far the road still stretches. The season brims with pride and a surge of empowerment. It also whispers a duty: to keep chipping away at barriers and to kindle hope, in the next generation.
"Growing up in a setting where mental health was barely spoken about, I’ve seen how intimidating it can feel to admit you need help. My own experiences have forged empathy, steady patience and a belief that listening without judgment matters. Being part of a workforce also gives me a distinct perspective — one that leans into inclusion, genuine understanding and cultural awareness in every interaction.
"I find my inspiration in the people I work with. Their bravery and the incremental strides they make keep my heart beating with purpose each day. Equally, my family and community anchor me, constantly echoing where I come from and why the push for something better matters.
"In the end, I cling to the vision that together we can reshape mental health care into a space that’s genuinely inclusive, deeply compassionate and truly empowering for everyone."
