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Staff spotlight: Niomie Wogan

Name: Niomie Wogan
Job title: Research Assistant
Year started at BSMS: 2023

Tell us a bit about your background

I was born in the UK but spent my early childhood in the Philippines before returning for primary school. I later studied Psychology at the University of Sussex. My career began at a specialist college supporting young adults with additional needs, first as a support worker and then as an occupational therapy assistant. Later, I moved into an Administrative Assistant role at SHORE-C, a position I enjoyed as it really played to my organisational strengths. From there, I transitioned into my current role as a research assistant

What’s the day-to-day of your role like?

There’s so many things that are happening so each day and task can vary! I’m currently helping to develop an online learning platform for healthcare professionals, which has involved using my editing skills to support the video content. I also assist with our in-person communication workshops by organising venues and managing delegates. Alongside this, I’m contributing to a paper exploring the communication challenges of deaf patients with cancer, and the needs of their interpreters.

What aspect of your role do you enjoy the most?

I enjoy how varied my role has been. I assist with organising the communication workshops which has taken me to different parts of the UK and given me the chance to meet a wide range of people. I’ve also spent time in clinics observing how doctors communicate with patients, acting as a fly on the wall, which was really fascinating to see the behind the scenes.

Who are some of your biggest inspirations within your personal or professional life?

Professionally, the directors at SHORE-C have been my biggest inspirations. They built the organisation from the ground up and emphasise the importance of actively ensuring our research helps healthcare professionals and cancer patients. They’ve also constantly encouraged me to develop my skills and grow my career. In my personal life, my mum really inspires me. Her strength, perseverance and pure grit are something I strive for.

BACKGROUND IMAGE FOR PANEL

How have you developed your skills professionally since joining BSMS?

Throughout my time here, I’ve learnt so much from my colleagues who have been supportive, especially in developing my academic writing skills and trying to navigate through the research world. I was also given the chance to present a poster at the UK Interdisciplinary Breast Cancer Symposium, which was such a new and exciting experience to connect with healthcare professionals and patient advocates. I’m always keen to learn and develop my skills, which is great as there’s so many learning opportunities at BSMS. Recently, I’ve completed and passed British Sign Language 101 course which was funded by the BSMS EDI Team.

What are your other interests / hobbies?

I love anything creative, and have fallen into scrapbooking and junk journalling, which typically means that my bag is full of receipts and bits of paper! Recently, I’ve also been into making miniature house sets. It really tests your patience but it’s so worth it and just adorable. Other than that, I love walking along the seafront and exploring the countless charity shops that Brighton has to offer.