Maria Victoria Juan of the Philippines receives the 2024 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award. ARCHIVE

The fourth edition of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award is now accepting nominations, offering nurses around the world an opportunity to win the prestigious $250,000 prize. Organized by Aster DM Healthcare, the award aims to celebrate the tireless contributions of nurses who drive innovation, leadership, and compassionate care in healthcare. Nurses can submit their applications on the official website, www.asterguardians.com, highlighting their work in one primary and up to two secondary categories. These include Patient Care, Nursing Leadership, Nursing Education, Social or Community Service, and Research Innovation & Entrepreneurship in Healthcare. Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, lauded the award’s growing global significance, saying, "The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award has become a beacon of recognition for the nursing community. Each year, it reveals inspiring stories of resilience and innovation, underscoring the crucial role of nurses in transforming healthcare." The award process is thorough, involving evaluation by an independent jury and oversight from Ernst & Young. A Grand Jury of global healthcare experts will select the top 10 finalists, with the ultimate winner to be announced in May 2025, coinciding with International Nurses Day. The journey of previous winners highlights the diverse impact of nursing. Nurse Anna Qabale Duba of Kenya won the inaugural award in 2022. Margaret Helen Shepherd from the UK took home the title in 2023, while Maria Victoria Juan of the Philippines claimed the 2024 prize for her groundbreaking work in aeromedical evacuation and environmental health. Juan, a consultant at the Philippine Army Health Services, shared her gratitude, saying, "This recognition is not just for me but for every nurse working tirelessly in challenging circumstances. It fuels my commitment to innovate and serve." The award, which drew over 78,000 applications from 202 countries in 2024, has become a global platform to amplify the voices of nurses. This year’s edition seeks to inspire even more professionals to showcase their contributions. Dr. Moopen added, "Through this platform, we aim to elevate the profession, empower nurses, and pave the way for future leaders in healthcare. Their dedication drives us to continue honoring and supporting their invaluable work." ICA/Expat Media
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