Expressnews
Chennai:
On the occasion of International Nurses Day, Aster DM Healthcare announced the Top 10 finalists for the fifth edition of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2026. The finalists were selected from more than 134,000 registrations received from 214 countries and economies, highlighting the growing global participation in the initiative.
The award, instituted to recognise the contribution of nurses to healthcare systems across the world, has seen a notable increase in registrations compared to the previous edition, which had attracted over 100,000 entries from 199 countries. Ernst & Young LLP has been appointed as the independent process advisor for the award.
According to Aster DM Healthcare, the finalists were shortlisted through a rigorous multi-stage evaluation process that included eligibility screening, assessment by an independent panel of experts and a final review by an eminent Grand Jury comprising global healthcare leaders.
One among the finalists will receive the grand title along with a cash prize of USD 250,000, while the remaining finalists will also be recognised for their exceptional contributions to healthcare and nursing practice.
The Top 10 finalists are Dr. Agimol Pradeep from the United Kingdom, Dr. Aidah Alkaissi from Sweden, Dinah Sevilla from Saudi Arabia, Dr. Hammoda Abu-Odah from Hong Kong SAR, China, Hindumbi Kourom Kakkada from India, Johana Patricia Galvan Barrios from Colombia, Josephine Nelago Angula from Namibia, Oluchi Angel Okoi from Nigeria, Peter Fore from Papua New Guinea and Ronald Mario Cañas Rojas from Colombia.
Dr. Azad Moopen said nurses play a vital role beyond bedside care by driving innovation, identifying healthcare gaps and mentoring future healthcare professionals.
Alisha Moopen said this year’s finalists represent a generation of nursing leaders focused on sustainability, scalability and long-term impact in healthcare systems.
The winner will be announced at a gala event in India in July 2026.
