Nahyan Bin Mubarak Awards Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti From Ghana The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, presented the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025 to Nurse Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti from Ghana. She is an Oncology Nurse Specialist and Head of Nursing at the National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. The award ceremony took place in Dubai, where she received a prize of USD 250,000.

The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award was introduced by Aster DM Healthcare in 2021. It aims to honour nurses worldwide for their exceptional contributions in leadership, research, innovation, and community service. This year marked the fourth edition of the award, which saw participation from 100,000 nurses across 199 countries. This represented a 28% increase in applications compared to 2024.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation, sent a message during the event. He congratulated the finalists and praised Aster DM Healthcare for recognising the vital role nurses play globally. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak emphasised that nurses are crucial in healthcare systems as they provide care and hope during critical times.

In his speech, Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the UAE's pride in its nursing professionals. He acknowledged their dedication and tireless efforts. He also mentioned that Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan envisioned a healthcare system valuing every worker's dignity. This vision continues under His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's leadership.

Nurse Naomi Ohene Oti expressed her gratitude for receiving the award. "To be honoured with the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award is deeply humbling," she said. "This recognition is not mine alone – it belongs to every nurse across Ghana, Africa, and the world who leads with resilience, compassion, and courage."

Naomi has significantly impacted oncology nursing in Ghana by transforming patient care and pioneering specialist training programs. She collaborated with international centres like Canada's Cross Cancer Institute to enhance local education for nurses. Her efforts have improved cancer care outcomes nationwide.

Acknowledging Other Finalists

The other nine finalists were also recognised for their contributions to nursing: Catherine (Kate) Maree Holliday from Switzerland, Edith Namba from Papua New Guinea, Fitz Gerald Dalina Camacho from UAE, Dr. Jed Ray Gengoba Montayre from Hong Kong SAR, Dr. Jose Arnold Tariga from USA, Khadija Mohamed Juma from Kenya, Maheswari Jaganathan from Malaysia, Dr. Sukhpal Kaur from India, and Vibhaben Gunvantbhai Salaliya from India.

These finalists were selected through a rigorous review process conducted by Ernst & Young LLP along with a Screening-Jury and Grand Jury panel.

Commitment to Nursing Excellence

Dr. Azad Moopen praised Naomi's achievements: "Nurse Naomi Ohene Oti has redefined what it means to be a nurse – not just as a caregiver but as an innovator, leader, and changemaker." He noted that her work uplifts patients and enhances the entire healthcare ecosystem.

Alisha Moopen added that Naomi's story highlights everyday heroism in healthcare settings worldwide: "Naomi Ohene Oti’s story is a powerful reminder of the quiet heroism that unfolds every day in hospitals." She expressed pride in celebrating her work on a global stage.

The UAE remains committed to elevating nursing worldwide by honouring those who protect lives with devotion and dignity. This award reflects national values of tolerance and solidarity while recognising nurses' profound impact globally.

With inputs from WAM