Barts doctor honoured for inspiring the next generation
Dr Jermaine Wright, specialist registrar in cardiology and one of our chief registrars at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London – one of the capital’s oldest and most prestigious honours.
Born and raised in Brixton, south London, Jermaine credits a school talk from a local role model as the moment that changed his life. It inspired him to pursue medicine – a path he once thought was out of reach.
Now, alongside his clinical work, Jermaine is committed to creating that same spark for others.
Over the past decade, he has reached more than 10,000 young people through school visits, widening participation programmes and access-to-medicine talks.
Unbeknown to him, one of his recent audiences included the Master of the Worshipful Company of Barber-Surgeons – a 700-year-old guild that had supported Jermaine early in his career and went on to nominate him for the honour.
He was also invited to join the Worshipful Company of Barber-Surgeons.
Outside his clinical training, Jermaine is a course director for the Resuscitation Council UK, a contributor to the BMJ’s Best Practice app, and a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in healthcare.
He also finds balance through music, fitness, and dance – competing internationally as a breakdancer.
In 2020, five members of Barts Health staff were awarded the Freedom of the City for their service during the pandemic.
Last year, another five consultants received the honour in recognition of their contribution to medicine.
On receiving the award, Jermaine said: "I’m humbled to be recognised in this way.
"To see my name alongside Florence Nightingale, Ed Sheeran and Sir Ian McKellen is surreal.
"This one’s for everyone who’s ever come to one of my talks – you never know what small action of yours might have the power to change someone’s life."
Congratulations, Jermaine – and thank you for continuing to inspire.
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