Nurse Maria Victoria Juan wins Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024

UAE—Nurse Maria Victoria Juan from the Philippines, a consultant at the Philippine Army Health Services and a colonel in the Reserve Force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, has been named the winner of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024.

She emerged victorious against nine other finalists, including Kenya’s Archimedes Motari, a nurse at Kiguma Health Centre known for his remarkable efforts in improving community healthcare for vulnerable groups like pregnant women and children.

Maria received the prestigious recognition, along with a cash prize of USD 250,000, during an award ceremony held in Bengaluru, India.

The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, established in 2021, honours nurses’ vital contributions to healthcare worldwide.

Since its launch in 2021, the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award has celebrated nurses’ essential contributions to healthcare.

This year, the award received an overwhelming response, with over 78,000 applications submitted from 202 countries—a 50% increase compared to 2023.

In a special message, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization, praised the finalists and commended Aster DM Healthcare for spotlighting nurses’ significance in the global healthcare system.

In her acceptance speech, Nurse Maria expressed deep gratitude and reflected on her journey as a military nurse.

She highlighted her unwavering dedication to serving in challenging environments, including combat zones, disaster-hit areas, and underserved communities.

“This recognition is not just about my work but also honors the bravery of the soldiers I’ve served alongside and the resilience of the Filipino people, who inspire me every day,” she said.

Maria also emphasized that this award celebrates the countless nurses she represents—selfless individuals in both military and civilian sectors who risk their lives to care for others.

Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder and Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, praised Nurse Maria’s dedication, stating that she exemplifies excellence in nursing and inspires the global healthcare community.

He reiterated that nurses are the backbone of healthcare, offering care with compassion and playing a critical role in the system.

Echoing these sentiments, Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare, described Nurse Maria as a symbol of courage, skill, and compassion.

She emphasized the platform’s importance in bringing to light the remarkable stories of nurses who make a difference every day.

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