Celebrating South Asian Heritage Month

RWT SAHM Celebration Event

As part of South Asian Heritage Month, The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust (RWT) proudly hosted a vibrant and inspiring celebration to mark the national campaign.

Held in the ED Marquee at New Cross Hospital, the event brought together colleagues, community leaders, and local organisations for a day of cultural appreciation, connection and meaningful dialogue.

The celebration, earlier this week, showcased the rich heritage, history and contributions of South Asian communities – both within the NHS and across the wider region.

It opened with a powerful welcome speech, followed by insightful talks, and energetic dance acts, creating an immersive and inclusive experience.

Kerry Flint, Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at RWT said: “We were incredibly proud to host this event and deeply grateful to all our guests and attendees for their support. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our diverse staff and we hope it offered everyone a chance to learn something new and meaningful.”

Christopher Innerarity, Chair of the RWT BAME Employee Voice Group and Strategic Council, said: “This event is a testament to our commitment to celebrating diversity and fostering inclusion across the Trust. South Asian communities have played – and continue to play – a vital role in the NHS and society. It’s an honour to recognise that.”

Thank you to all the guest speakers and performers:

• Alan Duffell (Chief People Officer, RWT)
• Christopher Innerarity (Chair of the RWT BAME Employee Voice Group and Strategic Council)
• Mr Warinder Juss (MP, Wolverhampton West)
• Shajeda Ahmed (Chief People Officer, Black Country ICB)
• Balbir Kaur (Radio and TV presenter)
• Zakkiyah Ahmed (University of Wolverhampton)
• Darlaston Youth Centre
• Shaz Hafeez (Women’s Charity Wolverhampton)
• Dr Brian McKaig (Chief Medical Officer, RWT)
• Gwen Nuttall (Managing Director, RWT)
• Joe Fielder (RWT Chaplain)
• Sunita Banga (EDI Lead Midwife and PMA, RWT)
• Dr Raj Mehta (Telford and Wrekin Interfaith Council)

This celebration formed part of a wider programme of activities for South Asian Heritage Month, aimed at educating, inspiring, and connecting staff and the wider community through shared stories, music, art and cultural dialogue.