LGBT+ History Month role models: Liz Cubberley

Can you tell us what started/inspired your path into the veterinary profession?

My career in veterinary care started nearly 7 years ago. I’ve been a primatologist and zoologist for 22 years working with large apes and small primates in various zoological collections, even caring for the PG tip Chimps in their retirement years, before I started working at Manor Vets Exotics.

The veterinary department is always something I’ve had an interest in, so being a Senior Veterinary Assistant within an Exotics Referral Practice is the perfect opportunity for me to see exotic animals in practice and to still carry out my work within a zoological capacity.

What has been the most challenging part of your career?

Twenty-five years later I have had a diverse career, working up in practice to head nurse for 13 years in a multi-discipline first opinion and referral practice, to a career in the pharmaceutical industry, and now as a Business Support Manager for the VetPartners corporate group.

What has been the best part of your career so far?

We see a variety of weird and wonderful animals but the best part of my job is working alongside the most knowledgeable, caring and supportive people who share the same amount of passion for patient and client care. I’m privileged to call them friends.

What are your proudest achievements of your career?

I’m proud to be a Wellbeing Champion for Manor Vets. It’s such an important role to be trusted with from my colleagues to be able to have that go to person they feel confident with. Everyone should feel safe, empowered and fully supported.

What advice would you offer to someone experiencing difficulty with their sexuality or gender identity?

My advice to anyone struggling is what you’re feeling is not wrong so don’t label yourself. If I knew then what I do now, it’s not to listen to society. Don’t let society dictate who you should be or at what stage in life you should be at.