Third year student, Chelsea Beckford-Procyk, was announced as the winner of ‘Student Midwife of the Year’.
Based at Bedfordshire’s Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Chelsea is currently in her final year of studying BSc (Hons) Midwifery
Speaking about her win, Chelsea said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been chosen as the Student Nursing Times Student Midwife of the Year.
“I decided to take on extra-curricular work on anti-racism in midwifery care because it was something I am passionate about. To receive recognition for this on such a large platform shows that my voice matters and my work is of value. This really motivates me to keep going and I’m really looking forward to seeing where my future career path takes me.”
Throughout her time studying at the University, Chelsea has been a champion of promoting anti-racism in maternity care, publishing an article in The Practice Midwife Journal, speaking at a global conference for International Day of the Midwife and running a podcast and blog – ‘Blk Mum to Midwife’.
Upon hearing about their trainee midwife’s win, Liz Lees, Chief Nurse at the Trust, said: “On behalf of Bedfordshire Hospitals I would like to say a big congratulations to Chelsea on winning this award. Inclusivity is one of our core values and Chelsea has taken on extra responsibilities to educate and inform her colleagues about incredibly important issues.
“It is fantastic to see individuals with such passion enter the midwifery profession. I am looking forward to seeing Chelsea start what I am certain will be a successful career in midwifery and inspiration for others to join such an amazing profession.”