Dubai, UAE – Aster DM Healthcare has announced the fourth edition of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, inviting nurses worldwide to apply for the prestigious USD 250,000 prize. The award recognizes exceptional contributions to healthcare, celebrating the dedication and impact of nurses across diverse areas of practice.

Registered nurses can submit their applications via www.asterguardians.com, showcasing their work in Patient Care, Nursing Leadership, Nursing Education, Social or Community Service, or Research Innovation & Entrepreneurship in Healthcare. Applicants may choose one Primary and up to two Secondary areas of contribution to highlight their multifaceted efforts.

The evaluation process will be meticulously overseen by an independent jury and supported by Ernst & Young LLP (EY). Following a thorough review, the Grand Jury, composed of global healthcare experts, will select the top 10 finalists. The winner will be announced in May 2025, aligning with International Nurses Day.

Commenting on the same, Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare said "The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award has emerged as one of the most coveted recognitions for nurses worldwide and each edition uncovers extraordinary stories of resilience, innovation and care, inspiring us to continue honouring their remarkable contributions.”

“Through this platform, we not only empower nurses for their invaluable contributions to healthcare but also inspire the next generation to reach new heights of excellence in patient care, leadership, and innovation. We are proud to continue championing the voices of nurses, celebrating their dedication, and paving the way for future leaders in the profession.” he added.

The first edition of the award held in Dubai in May 2022 saw Nurse Anna Qabale Duba from Kenya win the award. Nurse Margaret Helen Shepherd from UK was named the winner of the second edition in 2023. Nurse Maria Victoria Juan emerged as the winner of the third edition of the award, held in India in 2024, which received 78,000+ applications from across 202+ countries. A Consultant at Philippine Army Health Services, Philippines, Nurse Maria spearheaded aeromedical evacuation system in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) which improved survival rates by enabling rapid evacuation and early treatment of casualties, especially in conflict areas. She has also pioneered environmental health initiatives, integrating vetiver grass technology to combat soil erosion and water pollution.

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 all six countries in the GCC. 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 16 hospitals, 121 clinics, and 306 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.

For more information about us, please contact:
Lavanya Mandal        
Head of PR and Internal Communications
Aster DM Healthcare
Email: lavanya.mandal@asterdmhealthcare.com

Udhayan Sasidharan Nair
Manager - PR & Communications
Aster DM Healthcare
Email: udhayan.nair@asterdmhealthcare.com