International Women's Day: Meet our Team Farah Naaz
Why do you think it is important to celebrate International Women's Day and what does it mean to you?
IWD is an annual celebration I have always held close to my heart. This is because we have an opportunity to celebrate the historical, cultural, and political achievements of women who have made a positive difference with their can-do attitude. It is also an opportunity to encourage women to reach for the stars because impossible is nothing when you work hard for it.
Have you faced any barriers in your career due to being a woman and how did you overcome them?
I have had a very male dominated career which I feel has been challenging at times when feeling the need to express a certain feeling and there is a fear of being misunderstood. I have overcome this by building a good professional relationship with my male colleagues with the hope they would gain a understanding of how it can be challenging being the only female in a team like I was at one point here at NOE CPC.
What changes would you like to see for the next generation?
I would like to see more women man-up.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
You can improve your mind's flexibility and resilience by embracing changes and accepting challenges. I learnt this in a book called ‘Self Discipline by Mark Confidence’.
Share an empowerment moment that inspired you
Over the past few years I have been taking part in the elections for Sheffield City Council. I started off as a poll clerk counting votes and there were always 3 other females on the panel along with myself. The presiding officer who is in charge of the panel has always been a male in the multiple stations I have worked at. It seemed like it’s a norm to have women on the panel who are then managed by a man who will oversee everything and make all the important decisions. Last year I took the plunge and applied for the presiding officer role, I was successful, and I ran that panel like clockwork.
Can you tell me about a female role model who has inspired you in your career?
I have worked with many amazing female role models both previously and currently in my role. For me Leigh Pratt, Head of Category Support Services has stood out as an inspirational & powerful woman. I adore how Leigh has encouraged me to do better and motivated me to achieve my goals and has provided me with excellent professional and personal advice. Leigh has had a very challenging few years due to her health but I have always seen she has not let this stop herself from being a great leader. I someday hope to be an inspiration for other women like Leigh is.
What are you most proud of in your career?
I am proud of myself for being a part of this amazing organisation for 4 years and I am hoping to keep achieving great things in the technical services team to continue to bring value & make a difference to the NHS.
What was your dream career when you were a child?
I always wanted to be a forensic scientist. I took all the appropriate steps in life to achieve this but at the very last minute when I accepted an offer from university I chose to study biomedical science as it covered various modules such as health, statistics, business and project management which would open many doors for me in the future as it has done.
Why do you think diversity in the workplace is so important?
Working with a diverse range of people teaches us the importance of equality. The mixed atmosphere speaks for itself and shows how regardless of one's age, race, gender etc. we should always treat people with respect, care and show integrity. It’s as simple as the trust values we all follow