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As part of NLFT's celebrations to mark South Asian Heritage Month, our CEO Jinjer Kandola was joined by award winning NHS Leader Asma Nafees for a fireside chat exploring how heritage, culture and lived experience shape leadership.

The conversation touched on their personal journeys, the importance of representation, challenges faced by South Asian leaders, and the role everyone can play in creating a more inclusive future.

Both speakers reflected on how their upbringing influenced their leadership journeys.

As the eldest of six children, Asma felt a strong sense of responsibility to set an example for those who followed. Rather than actively pursuing leadership positions, she saw leadership as a series of opportunities to step forward and solve problems.

The discussion moved on to the experiences of South Asian women in leadership. Both speakers acknowledged progress but agreed there is still work to do.

Jinjer reflected on the challenges women have historically faced in gaining a seat at the table and highlighted the importance of ensuring diversity is genuine. Asma spoke about her involvement in the South Asian NHS leadership network and the deliberate efforts made to ensure women were visible, heard and represented as strong role models.

A major theme throughout the discussion was the importance of creating spaces where people can share experiences openly. Asma said many people simply "don't know what they don't know", highlighting how conversations help build understanding.

They agreed that forums like these are important because they help people feel seen, heard and less alone.

Both speakers were asked what message they would send to the next generation in the NHS.

Jinjer reflected on seeing increasingly diverse leadership groups across the NHS and recognising that her own achievements are built on the efforts of those who came before her. She said:

"Never give up hope. Have confidence in yourself and keep pushing. The day we stop pushing is the day we go backwards."

Asma focused on the power of individuals to create change. She encouraged people never to underestimate their ability to influence change, regardless of role or position.

"Change starts with a thought, a conversation and a community."

‘Lead authentically and build your tribe’- practical leadership advice from Asma

Towards the end of the session, Asma shared practical advice for emerging leaders, particularly those from South Asian backgrounds:

1. Be visible
Many people believe hard work alone will be noticed. Asma encouraged colleagues to speak up, volunteer, build their profile and put themselves forward for opportunities. 

2. Build your tribe
Success is easier when supported by others, so make sure to build networks of mentors, sponsors, allies and peers. These networks don't have to be based exclusively on ethnicity or background, they can be built around shared interests, professions or values.

3. Say yes before you're ready
One of Asma’s strongest messages was that growth happens outside our comfort zone. She encouraged people not to wait until they feel 100% ready before applying for opportunities.

4. Lead authentically
Asma reflected on feeling intimidated when she entered professional environments dominated by people from more privileged backgrounds. Over time, she realised that her lived experience was a strength rather than a weakness. She highlighted: "Be proud of who you are and where you come from."

5. Lift as you climb
Asma’s final message was "Representation opens doors. Inclusion keeps them open." She urged leaders to coach, mentor and create opportunities for others.

About Asma

Asma Nafees is a senior NHS leader, Non-Executive Director, charity trustee, and former commercial solicitor with over 20 years’ experience spanning healthcare, law, and public service. 

She is passionate about equality, inclusion, and social mobility, she was the founder committee co-chair of APNA NHS and founded SHE Women’s Network to support and empower diverse leaders across sectors.

Asma was recognised in the Equality-X Top 50 Influential Muslim list in 2023, 2024 & 2025, she is committed to creating opportunities for underrepresented communities and championing the next generation of leaders. As a British Pakistani, she is a proud advocate for celebrating South Asian heritage, culture, and contribution to British society.

 

Read more: 

• "My family’s history has given me an appreciation for cultural diversity, resilience and the importance of family and community"