The Filipino finalists of Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award. From left: Laarni Conlu Florencio, Nelson Bautista and Maria Victoria Juan.

Three Filipino nurses from the UAE, Philippines, and the US are among the top 10 finalists for the prestigious Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award. The annual award, which honors exceptional contributions to the nursing profession, selected the trio from over 78,000 nominations across 202 countries. The winner will receive a grand prize of $250,000 (Dh918,255) at a gala event in Bengaluru, India, later this year. Nelson Bautista, a nurse based in the UAE at Tawam Hospital in Al Ain, is one of the finalists. Bautista has been a key figure in promoting the health and well-being of nurses, particularly through his leadership in the SEHA Nursing Staff Health and Wellbeing Committee since 2018. His initiatives, such as the "Your Health First" program, have benefitted over 6,000 nurses. He also spearheaded digital transformation efforts, creating cost-effective and accessible nursing education programs. In the US, Filipina nurse Laarni Conlu Florencio is also among the finalists. She currently serves as Program Director for Nursing Continuing Professional Development at New York Presbyterian Hospital. Florencio is widely recognized for her work in promoting mental health among nurses and her global advocacy for nursing education. She has been instrumental in initiatives such as the "Thinking of You" Kindness Campaign and free leadership training sessions for nurses worldwide. Another finalist, Maria Victoria Juan from the Philippines, holds a leadership position within the Armed Forces of the Philippines. She was crucial in developing the first aeromedical evacuation system in the country and has played a vital role in the nation's Covid-19 response. Juan's commitment to environmental nursing is also noteworthy, with projects aimed at reducing pollution and addressing water management issues within military facilities. Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, praised the finalists for their exceptional contributions. "These nurses have gone above and beyond their duties, making a significant impact on healthcare and patient well-being. They are role models in their field," he said. The award's final round will involve interviews with a grand jury comprising global healthcare experts. Last year’s winner, Margaret Shepherd from the UK, received $250,000 for her groundbreaking work in wound care.

2024 Top 10 Finalists:

Archimedes Motari (Kugitimo Health Centre, Kenya) Johnsy Inni (Immanuel Lutheran Rural Hospital, Papua New Guinea) Laarni Conlu Florencio (New York Presbyterian, USA) Lilian Nuwabaine (Aga Khan University, Uganda) Nelson Bautista (Tawam Hospital, UAE) Nilima Pradeepkumar Rane (Goa State Branch, India) Maria Victoria Juan (Philippine Army Health Services, Philippines) Martin Schiavenato (Gonzaga University, USA) Hoi Shu Yin (Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore) Sylvia May Hampton (Wound Care Consultants, UK) ICA/Expat Media
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