Caring for people
For Komal Rizwan, caring for people has always been part of who she is. Before joining Caremark Kirklees, Komal spent more than ten years working as a teacher in Pakistan. She supported children across different age groups.
That background has proved surprisingly useful in her role as a Care Assistant. In this role, patience, encouragement and understanding are just as important as practical support.
Komal says many of the skills she developed as a teacher now help her when supporting older people in their own homes. This is especially true for customers living with dementia.
“It is kind of similar because you are encouraging people and finding the right way to support them,” she says.
“Sometimes you have to motivate someone gently and help them feel comfortable. The techniques I used with children can be helpful in care as well.”
Building positive relationships with the people she supports
Komal believes this understanding of different stages of life helps her build positive relationships with the people she supports. In addition, she enjoys getting to know each customer as an individual. She also likes finding small ways to bring reassurance, comfort and a smile.
Moving from Pakistan to West Yorkshire was a big change. However, Komal says she settled quickly into life in Huddersfield and into her work with Caremark Kirklees.
Having lived in different countries, including Saudi Arabia and Dubai, she says migration helped her adapt to new places, new routines and new cultures. Furthermore, coming from a close family culture also meant going into people’s homes never felt strange to her.
“I never felt like a stranger,” says Komal. “Where I come from, family values are very important and we are used to looking after each other. I think that helped me a lot.”
A record number of nominations
Those qualities have clearly made an impact. Komal received a record 12 nominations from customers and their families at the 2026 Care Assistant of the Year awards. At the event, she was named Care Assistant of the Year.
She says the comments from customers meant a great deal, adding: “I am truly honoured and grateful to have received the Carer of the Year Award. Working in care has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I enjoy supporting people to live comfortably and independently while treating them with dignity, respect, compassion, and kindness.
“Winning this award means a great deal to me, and it motivates me to continue providing the highest standard of care. I would like to sincerely thank my managers, coordinator, colleagues, and everyone who has supported, encouraged, and believed in me throughout my journey. Their guidance and teamwork have played an important part in helping me achieve this recognition.
“I am proud to be part of the Caremark team, where I have the opportunity to make a positive difference in people’s lives every day. It is a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated and supportive team.
Komal lives in Huddersfield with her husband and their two children. Away from work, family life is busy and happy. They enjoy baking together, spending time at home and encouraging her son’s love of art and painting.
Although Komal originally thought she might return to teaching after a few years in care, she now feels she has found the profession she wants to continue.
“I love the job I am doing,” she says. “If you make somebody happy and they give you a smile, that is a reward. I don’t think I can go back to teaching now. I want to continue in this profession.”
About Caremark Kirklees
If you would like to discover more about a rewarding career in home care with Caremark Kirklees, please visit our home care jobs in Kirklees or call us today on 01484 211281.