Dr Helen Gbinigie, based at the Oliver Fisher Neonatal Unit, was named Inclusive Leader of the Year – Strategic / System Impact at the National B.A.M.E Health and Care Awards 2026. Her nomination recognised her leadership in developing and implementing the national Jaundice in Darker Skin Tone Babies Programme.
This programme aims to address inequalities in neonatal jaundice care, ensuring equitable treatment for all newborns. It has already trained over 1,200 healthcare professionals across more than 80 NHS organisations throughout the UK. Judges commended the leader's ability to translate a recognised health inequality into sustained national change, fostering culturally responsive practices through co-production and workforce development.
Reflecting on her win, Dr Gbinigie stated: “I am honoured to have won the award. Creating long-term change requires joint working, compassion and a shared commitment to equity. I am proud of what I have achieved, working in partnership with colleagues at the hospital, Kent and Medway Local Maternity and Neonatal System (LMNS) and across healthcare systems regionally and nationally. I hope this award shines a light on the importance of building inclusive cultures and driving meaningful change for both our workforce and the communities we serve.”
Dr Gbinigie was among 140 individuals and teams shortlisted at the awards, which celebrate the achievements of Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) professionals and organisations. In a separate achievement, Medway NHS Foundation Trust's Chief Nursing Officer, Evonne Hunt, also received an award for Nursing Excellence at the Black Healthcare Awards.
