In this blog, FNF Leadership Facilitator Peter Roxburgh explores the often-overlooked strength of quiet leadership and the vital role it plays across health and care settings. We’re also pleased to share the reflections from two of our Mary Seacole Leadership Programme alumni — Irene Boham and Belinda Okyere — who offer their own experiences of leading with calm confidence and purpose.
Leadership isn’t about being the loudest – it’s about making the most meaningful difference. Quiet leaders do this every day.
Peter Roxburgh, FNF Leadership Facilitator
In today’s fast-paced and complex healthcare landscape, leadership is often associated with visibility, assertiveness, and loud voices. But not all loud leaders are great, and not all great leaders are loud. Quiet leadership – rooted in reflection, empathy, and calm strength – is vital, especially in healthcare where compassion, listening, and thoughtfulness can save lives as much as action can.
Quiet leaders are often introverts who lead more by example, influence through listening and thinking, and create lasting impact not through volume, but through presence and purpose. Their ability to stay grounded under pressure, to deeply connect with patients and colleagues, and to consider challenges from multiple angles makes them invaluable in creating inclusive, resilient healthcare systems.
The stories you’ll read in this blog post reflect how two nurses – both introverts, both deeply committed to their communities have found their voices and leadership identities through the Florence Nightingale Foundation Leadership Programme. They show that quiet leadership is not a limitation, but a powerful asset.
For introverted healthcare professionals looking to grow their leadership voice, consider these tips:
- Embrace your strengths: Deep listening, empathy, and reflective thinking are cornerstones of strong leadership.
- Practice purposeful communication: Focus on clarity and intention rather than volume.
- Seek supportive networks: Programmes like those at the Florence Nightingale Foundation help build confidence, provide tools, and foster communities where quiet leaders thrive.
I am deeply grateful to the Florence Nightingale Foundation for this extraordinary opportunity. Their commitment to nurturing compassionate, inclusive leaders is helping shape a stronger, fairer future for healthcare across the UK and beyond.
Irene Boham, Head of Occupational Health, University of Hertfordshire
“When I began my nursing career in Ghana in 1988, I could never have anticipated that one day I’d be leading healthcare initiatives in the UK, inspiring others, and contributing to projects that make a global impact. From an Internationally Educated Nurse, now a Queen’s Nurse, with over 26 years of community nursing experience and continuing to serve with unwavering passion and purpose.
Nursing has become more than a profession for me; it is a calling deeply rooted in compassion, resilience, and the drive to create meaningful change. My journey has taken me from delivering hands-on care to designing and leading initiatives that support access, equity, and quality in healthcare.
A defining moment in this journey was participating in the FNF Mary Seacole Leadership Programme. This experience didn’t just improve my leadership skills, it reshaped how I see myself and my potential. It strengthened my confidence to lead both local and global initiatives and helped me grow in ways I never expected, professionally and personally. It affirmed my unique strengths and reinforced my commitment to leading with equity, empathy, and collaboration.
One of the most profound experiences during the programme was a session with the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). It was here I discovered the strength of my leadership voice. The session gave me tools to cultivate presence, communicate with purpose, and connect meaningfully with others, skills that are essential in today’s complex healthcare environment. It also opened the door to a network of like-minded leaders equally committed to driving positive change.
Throughout this journey, I’ve learned that leadership doesn’t always mean being the loudest voice in the room. I lead with calm strength, deep reflection, and empathy. Where I once hesitated, I now step forward with clarity and confidence. These qualities aren’t limitations, they are powerful assets that allow me to lead authentically and effectively.
Another highlight of the programme was the remarkable community I found in my cohort. Together, we shared our challenges, lifted each other up, and continue to grow side by side. They’ve become a trusted source of support and inspiration, a reminder that leadership is never a solo journey.
To any healthcare professional considering the Florence Nightingale Foundation programme: take the leap. It’s more than leadership training. It’s a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and transformation. You’ll not only learn to lead, but you’ll also learn to lead as yourself, with purpose and authenticity.”
Irene Boham – Head of Occupational Health, University of Hertfordshire. QN MA PGDip PGCert BSc RN AFHEA Specialist Community Specialist Public Health Practitioner (SCPHN) in Occupational Health
I would highly recommend this programme to all healthcare professionals. It’s not just about leadership it’s about discovering who you are, growing personally and professionally, and preparing to take the next step in your career with confidence.
Belinda Okyere, Clinical Lead Nurse, Rapid Response Nurse, North Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust
“Growing up in the heart of a deprived area in North London, I never imagined I would become a nurse, let alone inspire my others to become one too. But here I am, proudly serving the community I was raised in, helping to save lives and make a difference every day. Nursing has become more than just a job for me it’s a passion and a calling.
My journey in nursing has spanned over 15 years. One of the biggest highlights of my career has been the opportunity to take part in the Florence Nightingale Foundation leadership programme. It was a turning point for me. The programme helped me identify and understand my leadership style, and it pushed me to step out of my comfort zone.
As someone who is naturally introverted, I often shied away from speaking up or taking the lead. But through this programme, I’ve built confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of self-worth. I’ve realised that being an introvert isn’t a weakness it’s a strength that brings empathy, deep thinking, and calm leadership.
The programme also introduced me to a new ‘family’ my amazing cohort who have become a strong support network and a source of inspiration. It’s been empowering to connect with like-minded professionals who are all passionate about driving change in healthcare.”
Belinda Okyere – Clinical Lead Nurse, Rapid Response Nurse, North Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust
