Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award Announces Top 10 Finalists for 2026

On the occasion of International Nurses Day, Aster DM Healthcare has announced the Top 10 finalists for the fifth edition of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2026, selected from over 134,000 registrations across 214* countries and economies. One of the Top 10 finalists will be honoured with the grand title and a prize of USD 250,000. Aster has appointed Ernst & Young LLP as the 'Process Advisors' of the award. EY has defined a three-stage evaluation process to determine the finalists and the winner.

The top 10 finalists for 2026 includes: Dr. Agimol Pradeep (United Kingdom), Dr. Aidah Alkaissi (Sweden), Dinah Sevilla (The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), Dr. Hammoda Abu-Odah (Hong Kong SAR, China), Hindumbi Kaurom Kakkada (India), Johana Patricia Galvan Barrios (Colombia), Josephine Nelago Angula (Namibia), Oluchi Angel Okoi (Nigeria), Peter Fore (Papua New Guinea), Ronald Mario Cañas Rojas (Colombia). To know more about the top 10 finalists, please visit: https://www.asterguardians.com/

Dr Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare, said “The role of nurses extends far beyond bedside care. Their commitment, dedication, and compassion make them the backbone of healthcare systems across the world. They are often the first to identify gaps in the system, drive innovation, and mentor the generation of healthcare professionals. This is what makes their contribution both indispensable and transformative.

The overwhelming response this year in the fifth edition, with over 134,000 registrations from 214 countries and economies, reflects the scale and significance of their impact. It is truly an honour to recognise these Top 10 finalists, whose work is driving meaningful change at scale, often in some of the most challenging healthcare environments.

The final round will feature interviews with a distinguished Grand Jury comprising global healthcare leaders, with the winner set to be announced at a gala event in India.

*As per data.worldbank.org/country

About Aster DM Healthcare

Founded in 1987 by Dr. Azad Moopen, Aster DM Healthcare is a leading integrated healthcare provider, with a strong presence across 5 countries in the GCC and Jordan. 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”.