Maria Juan from Philippines wins Aster Guardians Nursing Award USD 250,000 at the award ceremony in Bengaluru, selected from a pool of 78,000 nurses from 202 countries.
Bengaluru: Filipino nurse Maria Victoria Juan, a Consultant at Philippine Army Health Services and Colonel in the Armed Forces Reserve, has won the prestigious Global Nursing Award 2024. She received $250,000 during a ceremony in Bengaluru, India. This award, established by Aster DM Healthcare in 2021, recognises nurses’ outstanding contributions worldwide.
This year, the Global Nursing Award saw 78,000 entries from 202 countries, marking a 50% rise from 2023. The event featured dignitaries, Bollywood actress Sonali Bendre, and a message from WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who praised nurses’ essential role in healthcare.
Maria’s impactful career includes launching the Philippine Armed Forces’ first aeromedical evacuation system, improving survival rates in conflict zones. Despite her fear of flying, she completed intense training in aeromedical evacuation, jungle survival, and emergency medical runs. She also led environmental health initiatives and spearheaded COVID-19 swabbing efforts, training teams and conducting nearly 500,000 tests.
Expressing gratitude, Maria dedicated her win to Filipino resilience and the sacrifices of nurses worldwide. “This recognition reflects the dedication of nurses working under the toughest conditions to save lives,” she stated.
Dr. Azad Moopen of Aster DM Healthcare lauded Maria as a global inspiration, highlighting the Global Nursing Award‘s role in honouring nurses’ essential contributions. Managing Director Alisha Moopen called nurses “quiet forces of healing,” emphasising their remarkable impact.
Nine finalists, including nurses from Kenya, India, and the USA, were also recognised for their contributions, chosen through a rigorous process overseen by Ernst & Young LLP.
The Global Nursing Award continues to honour healthcare heroes like Maria, showcasing their courage, skill, and compassion.
