A reflection from Pooja Rawat: South Asian Heritage Month
Our South Asian Heritage Month (18 July – 17 August) celebrations have now drawn to a close. Over the past month, we’ve been privileged to hear inspiring stories from colleagues who shared their journeys, traditions, and reflections with us. These voices have helped us shine a light on the diversity that makes our Trust so unique.
To close this year’s theme, “Roots to Routes”, we’re sharing a personal reflection from Pooja Rawat, Deputy Head of Medical Workforce.
Where are your family roots based and how have they shaped your sense of identity?
I was born and raised in Jaipur, Rajasthan – India’s iconic “Pink City” – in a large, close-knit family where every celebration, achievement, and challenge was shared together. Growing up surrounded by multiple generations, cousins, and extended family taught me the values of empathy, respect, and collaboration from an early age.
Living and working across different states in India – including Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan – and experiencing a variety of professional roles gave me the confidence to navigate change and connect with people from diverse backgrounds. Moving to the UK and working with private sector and five different NHS Trusts further shaped my identity, teaching me resilience, cultural curiosity, and the ability to bridge differences while valuing every perspective. My education in India, followed by further qualifications in the UK, broadened my outlook and exposed me to different languages and cultures.
All these experiences combined have shaped me into someone who embraces diversity, champions inclusion, and carries a deep appreciation for both my roots and the routes I’ve taken in life. My identity is built on the lessons of family, community, and cultural richness, guiding how I approach my work, relationships, and personal growth every day.
What does this year’s theme – “Roots to Routes” – mean to you personally?
For me, “Roots to Routes” is about honouring where you come from while embracing where life takes you. My roots in India have given me strong values, resilience, and a deep appreciation for cultural traditions. My “routes” – the paths I’ve travelled through different states in India, and later across to the UK – have opened my mind, broadened my horizons, and allowed me to weave my heritage into every new experience.
It’s about taking the richness of your past and carrying it with you into your journey ahead, using it as both a foundation and a compass. Wherever I go, my roots guide my choices, my work ethic, and how I connect with people.
How do you feel connected to your roots?
I stay connected to my roots in both big and small ways. Visiting India is always a deeply grounding experience – spending time with family, sharing home-cooked meals, wearing traditional attire, and taking part in rituals that have been passed down for generations.
Even in the UK, I recreate that connection by celebrating festivals, cooking traditional Rajasthani dishes, and speaking my native language at home. For me, it’s not only about the cultural practices, but also about the values – generosity, hospitality, and respect – that I strive to live by every day. These connections remind me that no matter where I am, a part of me will always belong to Jaipur.
Is there a tradition or cultural practice that is meaningful to you?
I absolutely love our Indian festivals, especially Diwali, Holi, and Raksha Bandhan. They are not just celebrations, but moments that bring family, friends, and community together.
I love the way Diwali lights up homes and hearts, how Holi fills the air with joy and laughter, and the bond of care and protection symbolised in Raksha Bandhan. Growing up, these occasions were filled with storytelling, delicious food, music, and multi-generational gatherings, which taught me the importance of gratitude, togetherness, and cherishing relationships.
Even now, living in the UK, I make it a point to keep these traditions alive—cooking traditional dishes, decorating my home, and celebrating with friends and colleagues. These practices remind me of my roots, give me a sense of belonging, and bring joy and warmth into my everyday life. They continue to shape how I value connection, community, and celebration, both personally and professionally.
A heartfelt thank you to all our colleagues who shared their personal stories as part of South Asian Heritage Month.