RCN reveals speakers for flagship annual conference

Shani (above) photographed by Sebastian Böttcher.

Shani Dhanda, an award-winning disability inclusion and accessibility specialist, broadcaster and social entrepreneur will share her experiences of the nursing care she’s received throughout her life, at RCN Congress next month. She’ll also talk about her work helping organisations to break barriers and become more inclusive and accessible for all. 

Shani is one of three keynote speakers at this year’s event, which takes place in Brighton from 14 to 18 May.  

Green Party MP for Brighton Pavilion Caroline Lucas will address environmental challenges, both at home and internationally in her speech. Delegates will hear how the nursing profession can play a key role in addressing climate change through sustainability within health care provision. 

Members will also hear directly from RCN General Secretary & Chief Executive Pat Cullen in her annual keynote speech following a tumultuous year of historic strike action. 

This year the Mary Seacole Lecture will be presented by leaders and activists in the nursing community, Dame Elizabeth Anionwu and Professor Carol Baxter, as they celebrate the longevity of the NHS. They will discuss the contributions of the Empire Windrush generation and those who followed nursing pioneer Mary Seacole.  

Members unable to attend in person will be able to view a livestream of the keynote speeches on the RCN website. Find out more about RCN Congress.