Salford Nursing Apprentice scoops national award from Chief Nursing Officer

Ikechukwu (Ike) Onyenaobia received the award in recognition of his determination, integrity and passion for equitable healthcare.

Throughout his apprenticeship, Ike has developed a strong professional identity, blending his academic background and lived experience with workplace learning, while also playing a key role as a student representative, working to improve the apprentice experience.

Originally from Nigeria, he overcame significant visa and cultural barriers to study nursing, after originally completing a degree in Public Health.

Currently the only black male nursing associate apprentice with his employer, Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, Ike also provides vital representation to an underrepresented group. He uses his unique position to challenge stigma, promote inclusion and inspire others to believe they belong.

Ike reflects on both positive and challenging experiences, adapting his communication style to ensure all patients feel understood, respected and safe – with particular attention to cultural and language differences. His ability to prioritise diverse patient needs and navigate complex environments with humility and confidence has made him a trusted and supportive member of every team he joins.

He leads quietly but powerfully by example – proactively addressing obstacles, advocating for equity, and uplifting colleagues who may be struggling with similar transitions.

Accepting the award, Ike said, “I can’t say my journey has been easy, it has been challenging but so rewarding too. I am passionate about equity and being recognised for promoting these services and encouraging inclusion is something I don’t take for granted. I will continue to use my platform to promote equitable healthcare wherever I find myself in future!”

Nicole Blythe, Directorate Lead for Apprenticeship at the University of Salford, said, “Ike is an amazingly talented individual who has the insight, empathy and leadership qualities of someone destined to influence change far beyond his clinical role.

“He will take the values of fairness and compassion into every future endeavour.”

The Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) and Chief Midwifery Officer (CMidO) awards were developed to reward the significant and outstanding contribution made by nurses and midwives across England. The awards were opened to student nominations last year, with the first ever student award presented to Gabby Fee, another apprentice at the University of Salford, in March.

Tim McDougall, chief nursing and allied health professionals officer at Pennine Care NHS, said: “I’m incredibly proud to see Ike recognised with this national award. His commitment to providing compassionate, person-centred care, alongside his determination to overcome personal and professional challenges, truly reflects the values we stand for at Pennine Care. He is an inspiring role model for colleagues and future nursing professionals.”

The University of Salford, which is one of the largest providers of nursing and midwifery undergraduate education in the north, has seen incredible success in recent years for its Nursing Associate Apprenticeship programme, which has won and been shortlisted for a number of high-profile awards. Most recently, the programme was shortlisted for the third year running at the Student Nursing Times Awards, in a category the team won last year.