Mary Seacole was a pioneering Jamaican-born nurse and business entrepreneur who defied racial discrimination to provide vital medical care during the Crimean War. When refused a formal nursing role, she independently established the British Hotel near the battlefield - a sanctuary where wounded soldiers received treatment, nourishment, and comfort. Her innovative blend of Caribbean and Western medicine offered life-saving care at a time when military hospitals were overwhelmed.

Though overlooked in her lifetime, Seacole’s resilience, compassion, and groundbreaking contributions are now widely recognised. She paved the way for women - especially women of colour - in nursing and humanitarian work, demonstrating that courage and dedication can break down barriers. Her legacy continues to inspire healthcare professionals working in the most challenging environments, ensuring that holistic, culturally inclusive care remains at the heart of medicine.