Why I chose the Executive Master’s in Leadership at Bayes

From a young age, I was naturally drawn to leadership roles. I was often elected as class president by default and later served as Student Council President while also holding the position of Editor-in-Chief for the school paper. Leading people always felt like a natural fit for me. My deep interest in people and their stories led me to a decade-long career in nursing, which eventually evolved into my current role as Matron for Workforce and Education.

When I came across the Executive Master’s in Leadership at Bayes, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to refine my leadership skills and expand my perspective. Initially, I had dismissed the idea of pursuing a master’s degree, convinced that my days of formal education were behind me. However, the unique structure of this programme, offering both professional growth and a broader view of leadership, completely changed my mindset.

Finding the right fit

What stood out to me the most was the incredible support I received right from the beginning. Ruth Velenski played a pivotal role in guiding me through the application process, ensuring that I met all the requirements and reassuring me along the way.

When I read the EML brochure, I immediately saw that the block teaching format would fit well with my professional responsibilities. The structure was realistic, allowing me to balance my studies with work and personal commitments. The flexibility of self-study particularly appealed to me. At that moment, I knew I could make it work because I could clearly visualise how my life would look if I were accepted into the programme.

Beyond expectations: How the programme has transformed me

I expected to meet passionate leaders and enjoy my two days of academia each month. I knew the coursework would be rigorous and require careful planning, but I was ready to invest in my growth. Having settled into my professional routine, I felt it was time to challenge myself and push my boundaries.

So far, the programme has exceeded my expectations. I am learning a great deal from my peers and am constantly inspired by the lecturers and their wealth of experience. There is still much work ahead, but I am determined to see how this journey will shape me as a leader.

Key lessons & inspiring moments

One of the most surprising lessons I’ve learned is that great leadership is built on strategic instinct and emotional intelligence. While knowledge is essential, what truly defines an exceptional leader is the ability to connect with people and effectively manage change.

The Executive Master’s in Leadership programme has challenged my leadership perspective, allowing me to see organisational challenges from a higher-level viewpoint. It has also encouraged deep self-reflection on my emotional intelligence and reinforced the importance of genuine connections when leading people. Leadership is not just my passion; it is a significant responsibility, and I now recognise how demanding the role can be and how crucial it is to develop the right skills to navigate its complexities.

One particularly thought-provoking session was when healthcare entrepreneurs Richelle and William Pena were invited by Professor Ajay Bhalla as visiting speakers for our Strategy module. Their insights made me reflect on whether I, too, could one day start a business that complements NHS services and helps more patients. Professor Bhalla’s encouragement to think about future projects as leaders was truly inspiring.

Applying leadership lessons in real life

I have already begun applying the skills and knowledge gained from the programme in my professional life. I have become a more effective communicator and developed a better understanding of the gaps in my service. With this newfound awareness, I am more confident in bridging those gaps and managing change within my team.

The power of networking & community

One of the best aspects of this programme is meeting a diverse group of professionals from various industries. Learning from their experiences has broadened my perspective on how change and innovation take shape in different sectors. As someone working in the NHS, these insights allow me to explore best practices beyond healthcare.

As a functioning introvert, interacting with new people requires effort and preparation. My peers have made this process easier, helping me build confidence in engaging with others and managing stress in social situations.

My classmates and study group have been incredibly supportive, and our connections continue to grow. The guidance and encouragement from Natasha Maw and Professor Ajay Bhalla have been invaluable.  Their advice has strengthened my confidence in what I can achieve.

Personal growth & future aspirations

Initially, I found it daunting to be in a room filled with senior leaders. Coming from a Filipino background, humility and keeping my head down were deeply ingrained values. Even though I was passionate about leadership, I often felt intimidated by hierarchy. When I first joined the NHS as a nurse, I never imagined becoming a manager, let alone a leader at a high level.

My biggest takeaway is learning to trust myself in these spaces. I now recognise that I have the skills and instincts to thrive in leadership, and I must embrace my confidence and contributions in high-level conversations.

As the only Filipino and of South East Asian descent in my cohort, I take great pride in representing Filipino nurses in the NHS through this programme. I hope my journey inspires others from my cultural background to see themselves as future leaders and invest in their development. Professionally, I feel more empowered to drive meaningful change in my service and lead with greater confidence.

Final thoughts: A message to future leader

The Executive Master’s in Leadership has transformed the way I see myself and my leadership potential.  In the years ahead, I see myself in a leadership role within the NHS, contributing to the sector’s development to ensure its sustainability for future generations.

If you are seeking your next step as a leader, don’t miss this opportunity. Your next chapter is waiting for you!