Our Chair, Marie Gabriel, reflects on her Damehood

At the start of the year, our Chair, Marie Gabriel BR, received a Damehood for her outstanding contribution to improving health and equity over a 45-year career and through her extensive voluntary work.

More recently, Marie was also named in the Health Service Journal’s annual list of the 50 most influential Black, Asian and minority ethnic people in health.

After Marie attended the ceremony at Windsor Castle to receive her Damehood from Prince William, we asked her what it meant to her.

Congratulations on your Damehood, Marie! Can you tell us how it felt when you found out the news?

My family keep me grounded – best summed up by my husband asking me: “Do I have to go to the Palace again”?

So, this time, I went to Windsor Castle with my friends instead – who have over 30 years of connections!

My husband and two children are always proudest about the work I do, rather than the accolades I receive.

Tell us a bit about the ceremony itself

It was actually a better ceremony than when I received my CBE at Buckingham Palace, mainly because there were fewer people receiving awards and less waiting – and my friends were also able to join me in throne room.

It was such a special moment to be surrounded by my four closest friends, who have been there with me throughout my life and career.

Were there any moments that stood out?

When I received my Damehood from Prince William, we talked about football, particularly my role as a Trustee of West Ham Foundation.

I spoke about the NHS’ partnership with West Ham Foundation and the work we have sparked across London, but when the conversation became more football focused, I couldn’t resist asking Prince William how he thought his club, Aston Villa, were doing.

What does receiving a Damehood mean to you personally?

I am most proud that it is a lovely reflection of the work we do across the NHS in north east London – and of all the organisations and people I’ve been privileged to work with over the years.

I think that my Damehood also represents possibility – that if I can achieve this award, others from my background and community can too.

With everything going on in the NHS, are you optimistic about the future?

I’m an optimist. The 10 Year Health Plan and the “three big shifts” the government want to make in healthcare are the right direction for the NHS.

In north east London, that means us continuing to work together with local partners and our communities to deliver on that plan – add to harness the aspiration and determination of our local people, which is what gives us hope and drives us forward.

I know and, in my role, seek to lessen the impact this change is having on individuals. Despite the challenges, our ambition as an ICB hasn’t changed: to work with and for our communities to make meaningful improvements to health, wellbeing and equity. That’s what must guide us.

What advice would you give for people who want to make a lasting impact?

Choose jobs because they’re your passion. That’s what will enable you to stay true to your values and keep delivering.

And always be your true, authentic self!

Dame Marie Gabriel, Chair, NHS North East London