ASTER DM Healthcare has released the fourth edition of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, a distinguished initiative that honours the remarkable contributions of nurses to healthcare across the globe. The award, which comes with a prize of INR 2 crore, recognises nurses who excel in patient care, leadership, education, social services, research, and healthcare innovation.

Registered nurses from all over the world are encouraged to apply at www.asterguardians.com, showcasing their achievements in one main area and up to two additional areas. The application process welcomes professionals who have made notable contributions across various areas, including patient care, nursing leadership, nursing education, social or community service, and research innovation & entrepreneurship in healthcare.

An independent jury oversees the selection process for the award, with support from Ernst & Young LLP (EY). We will carefully examine the applications to identify exceptional candidates whose contributions demonstrate resilience, innovation, and excellence in nursing. A grand jury comprising international healthcare specialists will choose 10 finalists. The announcement of the winner will take place in May 2025, aligning with International Nurses Day to emphasise the vital contributions of nurses in promoting global health. 

Dr. Azad Moopen, founder and chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, highlighted the importance of the award, saying, "The Aster Guardian's Global Nursing Award has become one of the most sought-after honours for nurses around the globe." Every edition reveals incredible tales of strength, creativity, and compassion, motivating us to keep celebrating their outstanding contributions. 

He added, “Through this platform, we not only empower nurses for their invaluable contributions to healthcare but also inspire the next generation to achieve new levels of excellence in patient care, leadership, and innovation.” We take pride in supporting the voices of nurses, honouring their commitments, and creating opportunities for future leaders in the field. 

The award has a history of acknowledging significant advancements in healthcare. The first edition in Dubai (2022) was claimed by Nurse Anna Qabale Duba from Kenya, and the second edition in 2023 was recognised by Nurse Margaret Helen Shepherd from the UK. 

In 2024, Nurse Maria Victoria Juan from the Philippines won the award in India. Maria, a consultant at Philippine Army Health Services, was instrumental in establishing the aeromedical evacuation system for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), significantly improving survival rates in conflict areas by facilitating swift evacuations and prompt medical care. She also spearheaded environmental health initiatives, utilising vetiver grass technology to address soil erosion and water pollution and showcasing the diverse roles nurses fulfil in fostering healthier communities. 

The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award serves as a platform that honours the unwavering dedication of nurses and fosters innovation and leadership within the field. The expanding reach of the initiative, which received more than 78,000 applications from 202 countries in its most recent edition, highlights the worldwide respect and admiration for the nursing profession. 

With the opening of applications for the 2025 award, attention is focused on the essential contributions of nurses who consistently advance the standards of healthcare excellence.