Which course did you graduate from at CNELM and when did you graduate?

I completed an MSc in Personalised Nutrition accredited by Middlesex University and the Personalised Nutrition Practice Diploma from the CNELM in 2021 and 2024, respectively.

 

What did you do before doing this course?

I worked in the biotech industry in a laboratory setting before studying for a nutrition diploma starting in 2009. After completing the diploma, I started my own clinic, where I primarily work with clients facing hormonal, gut, and weight management issues.

 

What made you decide to embark on this course of study, and what attracted you to CNELM? 

After establishing my business and working with clients in my private practice over the years, I realised that there were areas where my knowledge fell short. As a result, I felt the need to pursue additional training to attain a higher qualification.

 

What was your first role after graduating?

I started working for Xyla Health and Wellbeing in 2023 as a Diabetes Practitioner. I conducted one-on-one sessions with clients, delivering the NHS Diabetes Remission Programme. Additionally, by the end of 2023, I started delivering the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme in group settings.

 

How did you kickstart your practice/career?

Starting my private practice was relatively easy after graduation, as I already had a clinic set up in Reading. However, when I started my private practice almost thirteen years ago, I had to learn all aspects of running the clinic from scratch, much of which was through self-learning and gaining experience. After graduation, I changed my website because the old one looked shabby and unappealing.

 

Where has your career taken you so far? 

Right now, I am juggling part-time work at Xyla and my private practice, which keeps me very busy. I am thrilled with how they provide me with diverse experiences and learning opportunities every day.

 

Do you specialise in a particular area of health? 

I'm still struggling to decide on one area of health to specialise in. My interests lie in gut health, women's health, chronic diseases, and stress management. I work with clients who have various health issues, and I try to help them improve their health by making dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

 

Which part do you think has been the most rewarding or successful? 

Being in a role where I can assist people has been incredibly gratifying and fulfilling for me.

 

Is there anything you wish you’d known before finishing your studies that you might have prepared for differently?

While I was studying, I faced difficult situations in life that made it hard for me to focus on identifying the preparations I needed to make in advance for restarting my private practice, even though I already knew what preparations were necessary.

 

What or who has most inspired you in your work? 

I am a self-motivated individual. I have always aspired to run my own private practice and help people improve their health. Seeing the positive results has helped me maintain my motivation. Additionally, anyone working towards this goal and passionate about the work they are doing to help others is an inspiration to me. I have so many examples around me that I find it difficult to pick just one person.

 

Do you have any tips, hints, things you’d have done differently...? 

Even though I hadn't planned it this way, after starting to deliver the NHS Diabetes Remission and Prevention Programmes, I realized the importance of gaining practical industrial experience elsewhere. This opportunity improved my confidence and knowledge in various areas, despite having experience running a private practice for several years. These valuable experiences helped me better understand people, their circumstances, and their needs, as well as how to handle different challenging situations. Working on these programs also gave me the confidence to interact with people in group settings.

Last modified: Friday, 6 September 2024, 8:42 AM