Returning to Cardiff University: Lessons from Our Co-Founder’s Graduation Speech

Returning to Cardiff University: Lessons from Our Co-Founder's Graduation Speech

Returning to Cardiff University, as the alumni guest speaker for the School of Healthcare Sciences graduation ceremony, was a genuine privilege for our Co-Founder, Rhys Carter.

Fourteen years ago, Rhys was sitting in the audience as a graduating student. This year, he returned to stand on the stage and address the next generation of healthcare professionals as they prepared to begin their own careers.

Rather than reflecting on professional achievements, the speech focused on the lessons that have had the greatest impact throughout his journey; principles that continue to shape the culture and values of The Carter & George Practice today.

Happiness Comes Before Success

One of the central messages was that success doesn't create happiness; it's often the other way around.

For Rhys, happiness comes from continually improving, taking ownership of your goals, surrounding yourself with people who genuinely care about you and being part of something bigger than yourself.

These are values that extend far beyond healthcare. Whether you're starting your first role or leading a growing team, fulfilment comes from meaningful progress rather than chasing external achievements.

Creating Opportunities for the Next Generation

The transition from university into clinical practice has become increasingly challenging for newly qualified healthcare professionals. With fewer opportunities available to graduates, many talented clinicians struggle to gain the experience they need early in their careers. At The Carter & George Practice, we're passionate about helping change that.

We've always believed that, with the right mentorship, support and development, graduates can become exceptional clinicians much earlier than many people expect.

We're also incredibly grateful to our patients, whose trust allows our team to continue learning, developing and delivering excellent care every day. Together, we're helping shape the future of our profession.

The Skills That Require 0% Talent

One part of the speech centred around what Rhys calls the "0% talent skills." These are qualities that anyone can choose to demonstrate every day:

• Kindness

• Compassion

• Empathy

• Supporting friends, colleagues and family

• Being reliable

• Listening

None of these require natural ability, yet they're often the qualities people remember most. In healthcare especially, technical excellence matters—but how you make people feel often leaves the greatest impression.

Embracing Imposter Syndrome

Every healthcare professional experiences moments of self-doubt. Whether it's treating your first patient, giving your first presentation or stepping into a new leadership role, imposter syndrome is something almost everyone encounters.

Rather than seeing it as a weakness, Rhys encouraged graduates to view it differently.

Feeling uncomfortable often means you're growing. It means you're challenging yourself, learning new skills and stepping into opportunities that matter. Growth rarely happens inside your comfort zone.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026

We'd like to congratulate every graduate who crossed the stage at Cardiff University. Healthcare needs professionals who remain curious, compassionate and committed to lifelong learning.

We're incredibly grateful to Cardiff University for the invitation, and to those who made the day so memorable.

Returning to where Rhys' own journey began was a true career highlight.

Watch the Full Graduation Speech

The full Cardiff University graduation ceremony is available on YouTube, with Rhys Carter's speech beginning at approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.