Latest news with #NaomiOyoeOheneOti
Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Health
- Gulf Today
Oncology nurse from Ghana wins global nursing award
A Ghanaian wife-and-mother, 24 years as a healthcare professional in her home country, and whose curiosity into why 70 per cent of the cases of the preventable cancer – most of the time – are diagnosed at their precarious stage – let her get into community engagements for the much-needed solutions, has been chosen as the fourth recipient of a UAE-borne international award. From over 105,000 applications across 199 countries, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital-National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre-Nursing Department head Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, is the fourth woman and the second African to win the three-year-old 'Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award.' The ceremonies were held in Dubai on Monday with chief guest the UAE Minister of Tolerance and Co-Existence Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan. Guests included Diplomatic Community officials, 2024 winner Philippine Army consultant Maria Victoria Juan NC (Reserve), and Miss Universe 1994 Sushmita Sen. From the press conference, jury members Asia Healthcare Holdings executive chairman Vishal Bali, International Diabetes Foundation president elect Dr Niti Pall, Officer of the Order of the British Empire awardee Dr Peter Carter, University of Technology (Sydney, Australia) adjunct professor Dr. James Buchan, and Botswana former health minister Professor Sheila Tlou, called for global support to all nurses worldwide. The five who bestowed the 2022 award to Kenyan nurse-epidemiologist Anna Qabale Duba - whose advocacies include the fight against cultural practices namely early marriages and female genitalia - verdicted that Oti is the most qualified to receive the prestigious award that goes with a $250,000.00 (Dhs 918,231.25/2,612,807.18 Ghanaian Cedi) because her cancer community projects, encompassing care, compassion, and continuing learning education and training are replicable in any country. They implied that fence-sitting leads to the perilous downfall of local to international quality healthcare. From the 'State of the World's Nursing 2025" of the World Health Organisation (WHO): 'Consolidating information from the WHO's 194 Member States, the evidence indicates global progress in reducing the nursing workforce shortage from 6.2 million in 2020 to 5.8 million in 2023, with a projection to decline to 4.1 million by 2030. Approximately 78 per cent of the world's nurses are concentrated in countries just 49 per cent of the global population.' In his awarding ceremonies online message, WHO director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, underscored the 'urgency' to long-lasting 'massive investments in nursing education, job security, leadership development and working conditions through informed data, training by equity and inspired by the courage and compassion of nurses.' He stated: 'The global nursing workforce has grown, they are unequally distributed. Countries that make up less than half of the world's population are almost 80 per cent of the world's nurses like in Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean Region. These inequalities affect communities on a daily basis.' Bali expressed gratitude for Oti's commitment to solutions addressing cancer that he said, has remained to be a global menace: 'We are still four million nurses short worldwide. There are only a few countries which are actually training nurses for the entire world. A lot more work has to be done in terms of creating more nurses workforce.' Buchan said: 'No nurses. No healthcare. Insufficient nurses. Insufficient healthcare. We are short of nurses worldwide. We need to be doing collectively all that we can to support more people coming into the profession and keep those who are already in the profession as long as they want to.' Pall who has worked in universal healthcare worldwide, said: 'There is a 60 million healthcare shortage by 2030 including nurses. The development of nurses, particularly in the low to medium income countries is the strongest single force. This award encourages that.' Carter stressed that all countries face challenges in their respective healthcare systems with every 'discipline' with a 'shortage of staff,' thereby '40 million people do not have access to healthcare.' Referencing to the distinguished professional qualifications of the Top 10 candidates who have evolved into nurses with up-scaled credentials with individualised community-driven purposes, Carter added: 'This award has shown that there are different ways of managing healthcare irrespective of race, religion, country and nationality. Health is a global issue.' Tlou was happy that Oti would be able to carry on her advocacies.
Al Etihad
5 days ago
- Health
- Al Etihad
Nahyan bin Mubarak honours Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti from Ghana with Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025
26 May 2025 19:06 DUBAI (WAM) Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, awarded Nurse Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti from Ghana, an Oncology Nurse Specialist & Head of Nursing, National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025, receiving the prestigious $250,000 prize at a grand ceremony held in the presence of the Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, Dr. Azad Moopen, alongside Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO – Aster DM Healthcare, T.J. Wilson, Executive Director and Group Head – Governance & Corporate Affairs, Aster DM Healthcare, and other distinguished in 2021 by Aster DM Healthcare, Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award aims to recognise and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of nurses across the world in various fields such as leadership, research, innovation and community fourth edition of the award received an astounding participation with 100,000 application from nurses from 199 countries across the world – marking 28% growth in applications received in 2024.A special highlight of the ceremony was a message from Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation, who congratulated the finalists and commended Aster DM Healthcare's commitment to championing the crucial contributions of nurses Nahyan bin Mubarak said, 'The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award stands as a distinguished platform that honours one of the noblest and most impactful professions in human history—nursing. Nurses are truly the first line of defense in any healthcare system. They provide care, comfort, and hope in the most critical moments and embody the highest ideals of humanity through their compassion and selfless service."In the United Arab Emirates, we view the nursing profession with deep pride and gratitude, recognising the tireless efforts and dedication of those who serve in this essential field. The late founding father of our nation, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan envisioned a healthcare system built on the foundation of human dignity, where every healthcare worker is valued and supported. Today, this vision continues under the wise and inspiring leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, who firmly believes that investing in healthcare professionals is an investment in the nation's future and the well-being of all people.''"On this occasion, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the winner of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025, as well as to all the outstanding finalists. Each of them represents a beacon of compassion, resilience, and service to humanity. Their recognition is a testament to the profound impact nurses have on individuals and communities across the globe,'' he said."We reaffirm the UAE's unwavering commitment to elevating the status of the nursing profession worldwide and honouring those who protect lives and care for others with devotion and dignity. This award reflects the spirit of tolerance, solidarity, and human fraternity that lies at the core of our national values,'' he Naomi Ohene Oti commented on the win, 'To be honoured with the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award is deeply humbling. This recognition is not mine alone – it belongs to every nurse across Ghana, Africa, and the world who leads with resilience, compassion, and courage. For over two decades, I have witnessed the inequities in cancer care firsthand and dedicated myself to closing these gaps through training, outreach, and system-level change. This award will help amplify our impact – scaling training, building faculty, and inspiring the next generation of oncology nurses across Africa. At the heart of my journey is a simple truth: nursing is not just a profession – it is a force for social justice, equity, and hope. Today, I stand not just for myself, but for every African nurse who dares to innovate and serve, even against the odds.'Working at the National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre, Naomi Ohene Oti transformed patient care, pioneered specialist nurse training, and championed equity in cancer outcomes. She has been instrumental in developing and launching oncology nursing training programmes in partnership with international centres like the Cross Cancer Institute in Canada, bringing world-class cancer education to local nurses in Ghana and significantly improving patient outcomes. In 2015, she was part of an expert team that developed the country's postgraduate oncology nursing curriculum, and under her leadership, over 60 oncology nurse specialists and 10 breast care nurses have been trained, greatly expanding specialised care services influence extends across the continent. She is a member of education and training committee for the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), and co-investigator on Global Bridges Oncology GM has also co-led initiatives with ISNCC and shaped continental competencies and policies in cancer nursing, while mentoring more than 48 nurses from African nations. Through her role as a global faculty member with ASCO's Multidisciplinary Cancer Management Courses, she brings African nursing perspectives to international cancer forums, advocating for culturally relevant care. She has received numerous national honours, including Ghana's Ministry of Health Excellence Award and the prestigious Dr. Dorcia Kisseh International Award from the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare, Dr. Azad Moopen, said, 'Nurse Naomi Ohene Oti has redefined what it means to be a nurse – not just as a caregiver but as an innovator, leader, and changemaker. Her contributions uplift not only patients but the entire healthcare ecosystem, setting a gold standard for others to follow.'Each of the Top 10 finalists have demonstrated extraordinary dedication, skill, and compassion in their work. These nurses are not just healthcare providers, but true leaders, pushing boundaries and making a profound impact in their communities. Their exceptional contributions deserve to be recognised, and through this award, we celebrate their passion and commitment to improving lives across the globe.'Managing Director & Group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare, Ms. Alisha Moopen, said, 'Naomi Ohene Oti's story is a powerful reminder of the quiet heroism that unfolds every day in hospitals, clinics, and communities across the world. We are incredibly proud to shine a global spotlight on her work, and through her, honour the millions of nurses who keep healthcare systems running and humanity thriving.'The rest of the nine finalists, Catherine (Kate) Maree Holliday from Switzerland, Edith Namba from Papua New Guinea, Fitz Gerald Dalina Camacho from UAE, Dr. Jed Ray Gengoba Montayre from Hong Kong SAR, Dr. Jose Arnold Tariga from USA, Khadija Mohamed Juma from Kenya, Maheswari Jaganathan from Malaysia, Dr. Sukhpal Kaur from India, and Vibhaben Gunvantbhai Salaliya from India were also recognised for their contribution to nursing. These nurses were selected through a stringent review process run by Ernst & Young LLP, a panel of Screening-Jury and the Grand Jury.
Khaleej Times
5 days ago
- Health
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Nurse who fights for equal cancer care wins $250,000 Aster nursing award
Nurse Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, a mother of three and a staunch advocate for equitable cancer care, was awarded the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025 at a ceremony held in Dubai on Monday. Naomi took the global spotlight with her powerful message: "The number one priority for us right now is the standardisation of training — and it's urgent." While calling for the urgent need to standardise nursing education, the healthcare worker from Ghana also urged nurses to step into 'leadership roles'. Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the award ceremony she said 'Every nurse is a leader. Whether you are administering an injection or advocating for better resources, you are taking responsibility for the patient's health. Leadership is not about position, it's about accountability, integrity, and action. It's about advocacy, for your patients, for your peers, and for the system.' Starting her career in 2001, nurse Naomi explained how she had seen disparities in cancer care and committed herself to addressing these through education, outreach, and systemic reform. The award money of $250,000, that honours the exceptional contributions of nurse Naomi will now enhance her efforts, expanding training programmes, developing faculty, and inspiring future oncology nurses across the continent. She also explained why partnerships are vital to this journey: "Many stakeholders bring rich experiences to the table, and while we have already established some collaborations, new ones are emerging, each with the potential to help us make a deeper impact. "For example, through our pilot training with the International Society of Nurses in Cancer Care, one of the participants has already gone on to contribute to national policy by helping develop breast cancer awareness materials. Real change, one step at a time." Taking the journey forward Going forward she explained how she is ready to take her work forward where she can engage directly with ministers and key decision-makers. 'We must advocate for its integration into policy and national training institutions. This isn't just a vision; it's a movement. One that adapts, trains, and transform,' said the nurse who is pursuing her PhD in 'supportive care intervention for breast cancer survivors'. She also attributed her success to her husband, who has been supportive throughout her learning journey. "It was not always easy for me but my husband was hugely supportive," she added. "Nurses are the heartbeat of healthcare, as Dr Azad Moopen once said. When nurses get it right, the system gets it right. When they don't, we all feel the consequences. 'One thing this journey, and even this award application has taught me is the importance of documentation and visibility. Accountability matters. Whatever you're doing, take note of it. Championing nurses' contributions Meanwhile, a special highlight of the ceremony was a message from Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation, who congratulated the finalists and commended Aster DM Healthcare's commitment to championing the crucial contributions of nurses worldwide. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE's Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, said, 'The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award stands as a distinguished platform that honours one of the noblest and most impactful professions in human history — nursing. Nurses are truly the first line of defence in any healthcare system. They provide care, comfort, and hope in the most critical moments and embody the highest ideals of humanity through their compassion and selfless service. 'In the UAE, we view the nursing profession with deep pride and gratitude, recognising the tireless efforts and dedication of those who serve in this essential field. ' Alisha Moopen, managing director & Group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare said, Naomi's story is a powerful reminder of the quiet heroism that unfolds every day in hospitals, clinics, and communities across the world. These nurses were selected through a stringent review process run by Ernst & Young LLP, a panel of Screening-Jury and the Grand Jury. Moopen said, 'We are incredibly proud to shine a global spotlight on her work, and through her, honour the millions of nurses who keep healthcare systems running and humanity thriving.'
Business Insider
13-05-2025
- Health
- Business Insider
Ghana's Naomi Oti named finalist for $250K global nursing award
Ghanaian oncology nurse and educator, Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, has been named one of ten finalists for the prestigious Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025. The accolade, which carries a grand prize of $250,000, celebrates nurses whose work significantly advances healthcare and community service. The announcement was made by Aster DM Healthcare on 7 May 2025. Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, a Ghanaian oncology nurse, is a finalist for the 2025 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award. The winner of the $250,000 award will be announced in Dubai on 26 May 2025, following public voting and jury evaluation. She led the establishment of Ghana's first formal oncology nurse training program, producing over 60 certified specialists. Oti, who heads nursing at the National Radiotherapy, Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, emerged from a pool of over 100,000 nominations spanning 199 countries a 28% rise in submissions from the previous year. The finalists were selected through an intensive, multi-tiered evaluation by international healthcare experts and the Grand Jury, with independent oversight provided by Ernst & Young LLP. Pioneering Nurse-led cancer innovations in Ghana and beyond Renowned for her pioneering work in oncology education and policy reform, Oti was instrumental in launching Ghana's first formal oncology nurse training programme. The initiative has already produced more than 60 certified oncology specialists and 10 breast care nurses. Her influence extends beyond Ghana's borders. Oti plays a key role in the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC) and is co-investigator on the Global Bridges Oncology Grant. She has mentored nearly 50 nurses across Africa, boosting cancer care capabilities and promoting nurse-led healthcare innovations. 'Naomi exemplifies the power of nurses to drive systemic healthcare transformation,' said Dr Azad Moopen, Founder and Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare. 'This year's finalists show us what nursing leadership looks like when it combines clinical excellence with compassion and strategic vision.' Raising the profile of African nurses globally Oti is one of two African finalists, joined by Kenya's Khadija Mohamed Juma, the creator of the RedSplash app, which enhances emergency blood donation services. Their inclusion highlights the rising global influence of African nurses, especially in oncology and public health innovation. Finalists also hail from India, the United States, Switzerland, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the UAE, and Hong Kong SAR. Together, they represent a global shift in recognising nurses not only as caregivers but as leaders, researchers, and educators driving change. Now in its fourth year, the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award seeks to spotlight outstanding contributions across five key pillars: clinical practice, education, leadership, community engagement, and research. With Oti's recognition, Ghana's nursing excellence—and Africa's broader contribution to global health—is gaining well-deserved international attention.
Zawya
13-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
African Nurses from Ghana and Kenya Selected as Finalists for Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025 worth USD 250,000
Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti from Ghana and Khadija Mohamed Juma from Kenya selected among top 10 finalists from over 100,000 global entries across 199 countries Winner to be announced at a grand ceremony in Dubai on May 26, 2025, and awarded USD 250,000 Finalists were selected following a rigorous evaluation process, led by an esteemed panel comprising expert and grand jurors, and independently moderated by the appointed Process Advisors, Ernst&Young LLP. Public voting is now open until May 19, 2025. Support your favorite finalist by casting your vote at: Two inspiring nurses from Africa - Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti of Ghana and Khadija Mohamed Juma of Kenya - have been named among the top 10 finalists for the prestigious Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025, which honors exceptional nurses from around the world for their remarkable service and leadership in healthcare. Chosen from over 100,000 nominations across 199 countries, these two outstanding women exemplify innovation, compassion, and impact in nursing. The winner, to be announced at a grand ceremony in Dubai on May 26, 2025, will receive a cash prize of USD 250,000. With a career spanning more than 23 years, Naomi has transformed cancer care and education across Ghana and Africa. Based at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana's foremost cancer treatment center, where she serves as an Oncology Nurse Specialist and Head of Nursing at the National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre, she has pioneered specialist training programs in oncology nursing, collaborated with global institutions like the Cross Cancer Institute (Canada), and mentored over 60 oncology nurse specialists and 10 breast care nurses across the country. Naomi's pioneering leadership helped develop Ghana's first postgraduate oncology nursing curriculum in 2015, and her mentorship of over 48 nurses across Africa reflects her broader vision to redefine oncology care standards for the continent. Naomi's impact goes beyond borders. She is an influential member of the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), co-investigator on the Global Bridges Oncology GM Grant, and a global faculty member with ASCO's Multidisciplinary Cancer Management Courses. Her contributions to research, training, and policy development have redefined oncology nursing competencies continent-wide. Her accolades include the Ministry of Health Excellence Award and the Dr. Dorcia Kisseh International Award—a testament to her dedication to equity, education, and leadership in cancer care. In Kenya, Khadija Mohamed Juma is making waves through her work as a nurse at Tudor Subcounty Hospital in Mombasa and as the founder of RedSplash, a tech-enabled blood donation platform. At just 29 years old, she is revolutionizing blood donation in Kenya using a Smart Donor Search algorithm to connect donors to patients in real time. She has led over 500 donation drives, collected more than 25,000 units of blood, and helped save an estimated 75,000 lives. Her work began as a personal mission following the tragic death of a friend's mother due to delayed transfusions. In response, Khadija founded RedSplash—mobilizing schools, mosques, and communities while breaking myths and promoting voluntary donation. Her model, dubbed 'Deliver blood faster than pizza,' challenges the black-market system and aims to build Kenya's first RedSplash Blood Bank and mobile units in the near future. Recognized by BBC, DW, and Citizen TV, and celebrated as a Commonwealth Youth Awards Africa finalist, Khadija is not only a healthcare innovator but a rising voice for equity, youth leadership, and gender inclusion in health. Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare, said, 'The selection of Naomi and Khadija among the top 10 finalists for the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award is a celebration of Africa's nursing excellence. Their stories demonstrate extraordinary courage, innovation, and commitment to community health—whether it's transforming cancer care or revolutionizing blood donation systems. These nurses are redefining leadership in healthcare, and through this award, we hope to shine a global spotlight on their exceptional work that continues to save and transform lives.' The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, now in its fourth edition, is among the world's most coveted recognitions for nurses. The 2025 finalists were shortlisted by an independent process advised by Ernst&Young LLP (EY) and evaluated by an international Grand Jury and Expert Panel. The gala award ceremony will be held in Dubai, UAE on May 26, 2025. As part of the final selection process, the public is invited to participate in voting for their favorite finalist. The voting period is now open and will continue until May 19, 2025. To cast your vote and show support for these remarkable nurses, please visit The top 10 finalists for 2025 includes: Catherine Maree Holliday (Centre for Community-Driven Response, Switzerland), Edith Namba (Mount Hagen Provincial Hospital, Papua New Guinea), Fitz Gerald Dalina Camacho (Mediclinic City Hospital, UAE), Dr. Jed Ray Gengoba Montayre (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR), Dr. Jose Arnold Tariga (Insight Global Health, USA), Khadija Mohamed Juma (Tudor Subcounty Hospital, Kenya), Maheswari Jaganathan (Cancer Research Malaysia), Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti (Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana), Dr. Sukhpal Kaur (PGIMER, India), Vibhaben Gunvantbhai Salaliya (Hospital for Mental Health, India). To know more about the top 10 finalists, please visit: Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Aster DM Healthcare. Annexure / Editor's Note – The top 10 finalists for 2025 include: Top of Form Catherine Holliday, Centre for Community-Driven Response, Switzerland: Catherine Holliday founded the Centre for Community-Driven Response (CCDR) to embed patient experience as a core pillar of health policy, alongside clinical and economic evidence. Through the creation of the PEEK (Personal Experience, Expectations, and Knowledge) protocol, she has built one of the world's largest repositories of patient experience data – over 2,000 interviews shaping strategies across countries and ensuring patients become active hosts in their own care. Catherine also pioneered the Pathways Specialist Nurse Service, a nurse-led Telehealth model delivering triage, assessment, and education to underserved, crisis-affected, and remote communities. Her model redefined Telehealth in nursing, expanding access for people with disabilities, mental health conditions, and chronic diseases in low-resource settings. Catherine was named one of the WHO's 100 Outstanding Women Nurses and Midwife Leaders (2020), received the Australian Health Minister's Award for Nursing Trailblazers (2022), and was honored with the President's Award for Legacy Contribution by the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (2024). Edith Namba, Mount Hagen Provincial Hospital, Papua New Guinea: Edith Namba is a courageous nursing leader whose 27-year journey has been instrumental in advancing patient care, spearheading public health initiatives, and specializing in gender-based violence response programs. Triggered by the urgent needs she witnessed during cholera outbreaks and gender-based violence crisis, Edith has led systemic change – pioneering emergency care for survivors, playing a crucial role in piloting Family Support Centres in rural areas, and training health workers to provide holistic care. Edith has also received recognition from CIMC for her work of volunteerism in the fight against of Gender based Violence in Papua New Guinea. Her initiatives have reduced preventable harm, advanced gender equity, and redefined what it means to lead in healthcare – not from behind a desk, but at the heart of crisis and community. Fitz Gerald Dalina Camacho, Mediclinic City Hospital, UAE: Fitz Gerald Dalina Camacho is a nurse educator whose journey was ignited by a deep conviction that safe, high-quality care begins with empowered, well-trained nurses. Fitz has played a key role in enhancing safety protocols and education systems across hospitals in the Middle East. His initiatives include the establishment of the Life Support Training Center in collaboration with the American Heart Association, the design and launch of the Continuous Medical Education (CME) Program, and the development of Adult and Pediatric Nursing Upskilling Programs. These efforts combine hands-on innovation with global standards. Fitz's passion for equity also extends beyond the hospital, as he actively teaches and volunteers with underserved communities. Dr. Jed Ray Gengoba Montayre, Centre for Evidence-Based Practice for Healthcare Policy, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR: Dr. Jed Ray Gengoba Montayre is a globally recognised Gerontologist, Researcher and Policy Influencer whose work drives systems-level change in ageing, caregiver support, and the global nursing workforce. He has led multiple World Health Organization-commissioned projects, including a global review of community-based age-friendly interventions that informed the WHO Age-Friendly Framework, and a critical analysis of strategies to improve science literacy during public health emergencies. His pioneering contributions to nursing education - such creation of an interdisciplinary program Master of Ageing, Wellbeing, and Sustainability – has redefined how future health leaders are trained. Dr. Montayre's research and digital innovations, including telecare for socially isolated older adults, continue to shape inclusive, evidence-based care across borders. His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious "Distinguished Educator in Gerontological Nursing" award from the U.S.-based National Hartford Center of Gerontological Nursing Excellence in 2021. He was also honoured with the "Vice-Chancellor Excellence in Research" award for Early Career Research at Western Sydney University in 2022 and named "New Zealand Young Nurse of the Year" in 2016. Dr. Jose Arnold Tariga, Insight Global Health, USA: Dr Jose Arnold Tariga is a transformative nursing educator and global health advocate whose mission was sparked by his own early struggles navigating bias as a highly qualified, non-western trained nurse entering the U.S. healthcare system. Turning adversity into action, he developed the groundbreaking International Transition to Practice Program (ITPP), a model now shaping how internationally educated nurses bridge clinical, cultural, and communication gaps. From designing rapid upskilling modules during COVID-19 to challenging systemic inequities in nursing education, his work has elevated standards, improved retention, and expanded access. Prior to his move to the USA, he spent over 9 years in the UAE driving education and training for staff at multiple organizations, delivering lectures and workshops recognized by the Department of Health. Khadija Mohamed Juma, Tudor Subcounty Hospital, Kenya: Khadija Mohamed Juma is a Kenyan nurse and social innovator revolutionizing blood donation access through her tech-enabled platform, RedSplash. In just five years, she has led over 500 blood donation campaigns, collected more than 25,000 units of blood, and saved an estimated 75,000 lives –transforming Kenya's approach to emergency care. Recognized by the Commonwealth Youth Awards and featured on global media, Khadija's Smart Donor Search app connects donors to patients in real time, all while breaking cultural taboos and mobilizing over 500 volunteers. Her bold, community-driven approach is redefining the future of healthcare accessibility in Africa. Maheswari Jaganathan, Cancer Research Malaysia: Maheswari Jaganathan is a nationally recognized oncology nurse leader who pioneered Malaysia's Patient Navigation Program, which has transformed breast cancer care by reaching over 4,700 newly diagnosed women and closing critical gaps in access and equity. This program —now implemented across multiple hospitals in Malaysia—integrates clinical support with financial, legal, and emotional advocacy, dramatically improving patient outcomes. Recognized by the World Health Organization, her work is redefining nursing as a force for system change. She plans to set up a Navigation Academy for Southeast Asia – a regional hub of learning and collaboration focused on system change, AI, mHealth, and research, further positioning nurses at the forefront of healthcare transformation. Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana: Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti is a nationally and internationally recognized oncology nurse leader and recipient of multiple honours for her contributions to cancer care, research, and education in Africa. She played a crucial role in the setting up a formal oncology nurse training program in Ghana. Through her leadership, the centre had trained over 60 oncology nurse specialists and 10 breast care nurses. She is a member of education and training committee for the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), and co-investigator on Global Bridges Oncology GM Grant, she has shaped continental competencies and policies in cancer nursing, while mentoring more than 48 nurses from African nations. Her initiatives in driving nurse-led education and research – are revolutionizing cancer care and positioning nursing as a central force in Africa's cancer control response. Dr Sukhpal Kaur, PGIMER, India: Dr. Sukhpal Kaur is a pioneering force in Indian nursing whose 34-year career has redefined how evidence-based care reaches the most vulnerable. Motivated by the urgent need for nurse-led innovation in underserved settings, she played a key role in securing national interdisciplinary research grants – developing mobile apps, home-care protocols, and indigenous therapies that have improved outcomes for cancer patients, bedridden elders, and rural families. From contributing to nurse-led specialty clinics to transforming education through simulation and competency-based learning, her work bridges academic excellence with grassroots impact – making compassionate, research-driven care accessible where it's needed most. Vibha Salaliya, Hospital for Mental Health, India: Vibha Salaliya is a nationally recognized mental health nurse and recipient of the Florence Nightingale Award. She has been instrumental in implementation of the Peer Support Volunteer (PSV) model, which has now scaled across four government mental hospitals in Gujarat. Through this revolutionary initiative, over 3000 individuals with mental illness have achieved economic independence, and 426 patients have transitioned from care receivers to care givers—breaking the stigma and cycle of institutionalization. Her clinical innovations have drastically reduced hospital stay durations from 90 to 43 days by integrating psychotherapeutic approaches, life skills training, family reintegration strategies, and vocational rehabilitation initiatives. She has also trained over 6000 frontline professionals across Gujarat. For more information about us, please contact: Lavanya Mandal Head of PR and Internal Communications Aster DM Healthcare Tel: +971 528126577 Email: Udhayan Sasidharan Nair Manager - PR&Communications Aster DM Healthcare Tel: + 971 508850520 Email: About Aster DM Healthcare FZC in GCC: Founded in 1987 by Dr. Azad Moopen, Aster DM Healthcare is a leading integrated healthcare provider, with a strong presence across 5 countries in the GCC and Jordan. Aster is committed to the vision of providing accessible and high-quality healthcare, from primary to quaternary services, with its promise of 'We will treat you well'. The organisation's robust integrated healthcare model includes 15 hospitals, 122 clinics, and 313 pharmacies in GCC serving all segments of the society through three differentiated brands: Aster, Medcare and Access. Aster consistently adapts to meet the evolving needs of patients, ensuring access to quality healthcare through both physical and digital channels which is exemplified with the launch of the region's first healthcare super app, myAster. About Aster DM Healthcare Limited, India: Aster DM Healthcare Limited is one of the largest healthcare service providers operating in India with a strong presence across primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary healthcare through 19 hospitals with 5,128 beds, 13 clinics, 203 pharmacies (Operated by Alfaone Retail Pharmacies Private Limited under brand license from Aster), and 254 labs and patient experience centers across 5 states in India, delivering a simple yet strong promise to different stakeholders: 'We'll Treat You Well.'
