Dr. Naive’s deep passion for medical-surgical nursing took root early in his career. “My journey into medical-surgical nursing began with a deep admiration for its complexity and its pivotal role in patient care,” he explains. He admires how medical-surgical nurses sit at the forefront of healthcare delivery, caring for diverse patient populations and advocating for positive outcomes. This specialty, often called the backbone of nursing, demands adaptability, strong clinical judgment, and a holistic approach—qualities that Dr. Naive embodied while advancing in his career across multiple countries.

His ascent to leadership within MSNCB was a natural progression, grounded in a desire to see other nurses excel. “Leadership within MSNCB felt like a natural progression of my passion for promoting excellence in medical-surgical nursing. It’s not just about individual achievement; it’s about empowering others,” Dr. Naive notes. As a CMSRN Director, he is well-positioned to help steer the future of medical-surgical nursing, ensuring that more nurses have access to the certification and professional development that can elevate their practice.

A proud Filipino, Dr. Naive credits much of his leadership style and values to his cultural upbringing: “My Filipino heritage has deeply shaped my values and leadership style. Growing up in a culture that prioritizes community, compassion, and resilience has influenced my approach to patient care and leadership.” He highlights bayanihan (community spirit) and malasakit (empathy) as core tenets guiding his work. By fostering a collaborative atmosphere, he promotes teamwork and genuine care within any healthcare or educational setting he oversees. These values, coupled with a commitment to respect and humility, have been instrumental in his ability to adapt to diverse work environments and form genuine connections across cultures.

As a CMSRN Director, Dr. Naive has ambitious yet practical goals. “My primary goals include expanding access to certification opportunities, fostering professional growth, and amplifying the voices of medical-surgical nurses worldwide,” he says. His focus lies in breaking down barriers—be they financial constraints, limited awareness, or limited access to resources—that prevent nurses from pursuing certification. Furthermore, he envisions enhanced mentorship programs, cutting-edge educational opportunities, and the promotion of medical-surgical nursing’s critical role in high-quality care. “I also hope to represent diversity in leadership, ensuring that all nurses see themselves reflected in the profession’s leaders,” he adds. This leadership philosophy underscores Dr. Naive’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of nurse leaders.

For Filipino nurses aspiring to attain certification or step into leadership roles, Dr. Naive’s advice resonates with optimism and camaraderie: “I encourage you to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. Certification is not just about gaining a title—it’s a way to affirm your expertise, demonstrate your commitment to patient care, and open doors to new possibilities.” He reminds them to stay true to their cultural strengths: empathy, hard work, and innovation. Dr. Naive also emphasizes the importance of leading with authenticity and forging strong collaborations, stating that the support of a community can be a powerful catalyst for success.

With his extensive achievements, global perspective, and unwavering passion for patient-centered care, Dr. Blaise Naive continues to be a driving force in medical-surgical nursing. By integrating compassion, resilience, and innovation, he not only leads by example but also inspires countless nurses around the world to embrace professional development, uphold the highest standards of care, and contribute to a more equitable and effective healthcare system.

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Dr. Maria Mares, the symposium’s leading convener, expresses her enthusiasm for this year’s gathering, stating, “Join us for the 5th Filipino International Nursing Symposium on May 3rd, 2025! We are thrilled to announce the 5th Filipino International Nursing Symposium, themed ‘Filipino Nurses’ Global Impact: Innovations and Best Practices.’ This event will be held at Western Sydney University’s Campbelltown Campus, starting at 8:30 AM. Celebrate the remarkable contributions of Filipino nurses worldwide by participating in this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate with nursing leaders, clinicians, academics, and students. Engage in insightful discussions, explore new innovations, and share your expertise to advance our mission of excellence in nursing.”

Filipino nurses have long been recognized for their dedication, expertise, and compassion within various healthcare environments. The symposium will highlight these achievements through keynote presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities. Attendees will explore topics such as technological advancements in healthcare, best practices for patient engagement, leadership strategies, and advocacy for the profession. By bringing together a wide range of professionals, the symposium seeks to drive new perspectives, celebrate innovative ideas, and strengthen a global network of nursing leaders, educators, and clinicians.

In addition to its focus on professional development, the symposium also serves as a platform for organizations wishing to sponsor the event. Dr. Mares states, “Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations seeking to support the professional development of Filipino nurses and gain visibility within a global network. By sponsoring this event, you demonstrate a commitment to the nursing profession and help shape the future of healthcare.” Sponsors benefit from enhanced brand exposure, direct access to healthcare stakeholders, and the opportunity to foster international collaboration. Sponsorship contributions further the symposium’s mission by funding educational resources, conference materials, and future-oriented sessions to bolster nursing capacity.

The FiND Network, composed of dedicated Filipino nurse leaders worldwide, welcomes the support of healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders aligned with its goals. The 5th Filipino International Nursing Symposium aspires to spark collective action and cultivate leadership to meet present and future healthcare demands by uniting around a shared commitment to nursing excellence. Doing so reinforces the importance of recognizing Filipino nurses’ pivotal role in shaping patient care and implementing evidence-based solutions.

Interested participants can register via the symposium’s Eventbrite page https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/5th-filipino-international-nursing-symposium-tickets-991541767117. More details, including program updates and additional resources, are accessible upon registration. Potential sponsors, collaborators, and those seeking more information are encouraged to contact the FiND Network or Dr. Maria Mares directly.

Organizers invite nursing professionals, students, and allies from across the globe to participate. By gathering under one roof, attendees will have the chance to share knowledge, best practices, and emerging concepts in nursing, all aimed at advancing patient outcomes and promoting a more robust healthcare system. The day promises meaningful exchanges, insightful learning experiences, and renewed appreciation for the crucial role that Filipino nurses play worldwide.

With the 5th Filipino International Nursing Symposium fast approaching, the FiND Network encourages all supporters of the nursing profession to mark their calendars for May 3, 2025. This event provides a rare opportunity to celebrate Filipino nurses’ achievements, explore bold new frontiers in healthcare, and empower nursing communities to excel on an international level. Please visit the event’s registration page or contact the convenor for further details on how to participate, sponsor, or otherwise contribute to this noteworthy gathering.

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One of the most emblematic breakthroughs this year was the election of Manu Pelayo as the Deputy Chairperson of the Board of the Nursing Council of New Zealand. Manu’s ascension to this prestigious role—the first Filipino to hold such a post—reminds us that leadership opportunities are not confined by nationality or geography. His presence at the governance level signals that Filipino nurses are ready, willing, and able to help guide the direction of nursing regulations and policies. It’s a powerful statement of inclusion and representation: if Filipino nurses can rise to influence how nursing standards are set and maintained, what barriers remain that we cannot surmount?

This theme of leadership resonates strongly in the United Kingdom as well. Following last year’s trailblazing achievement of Oliver Soriano becoming the first Filipino Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) in the NHS, 2024 saw the appointment of Edmund Tabay as the second Filipino CNO. The significance of having not just one, but now two Filipino leaders in these top clinical executive roles cannot be overstated. It demonstrates that our contributions are not anomalies or one-off successes. Instead, we are carving out a permanent space at the table where decisions about patient care models, staffing policies, and strategic healthcare planning are made. Through their work, Edmund and Oliver personify the FiND Network’s vision: nurturing a cadre of Filipino nurse leaders who can mentor, inspire, and open doors for others.

On the other side of the world, the United States also witnessed groundbreaking progress. Dr. Jose D. Castillo III’s election as president-elect of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) is a milestone that goes beyond personal accomplishment. He is the first Filipino to hold this key position, an honor that places him at the very heart of nursing regulation in the U.S. Accompanying this achievement, five other Filipino nurses have taken on roles in various state nursing boards, further cementing the Filipino community’s influence in shaping nursing practice and standards. These developments are perfectly aligned with FiND’s ongoing efforts to encourage our members to aim high and engage at policy and regulatory levels, ensuring that the Filipino perspective is actively included in the evolving discourse of healthcare governance.

In Australia, too, Filipino nurses have continued to break new ground. Karissa Subedi’s election to the Wagga Wagga City Council—a government post that extends beyond clinical confines—exemplifies the notion that Filipino nurses possess not only clinical acumen but also broader leadership capabilities in civic and political spheres. This expansion into non-traditional leadership roles underscores the FiND Network’s belief that nursing leadership can transcend the walls of hospitals and clinics. It can influence public health policy, community well-being, and social determinants of health at the municipal, regional, and national levels. When a Filipino nurse steps into a political arena, it showcases to the world that our profession’s ethos of care, equity, and compassion is universal, equally relevant in legislative chambers as in patient wards.

The recognition of Filipino nurses has also come in the form of prestigious international awards. Maria Victoria Juan’s receipt of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024 stands as a global acknowledgment of the extraordinary contributions Filipino nurses make. Such accolades signal that our community’s impact on healthcare delivery is both profound and widely respected. To see one of our own honored on the global stage inspires the next generation of Filipino nurses, encouraging them to pursue excellence and leadership, and reminding them that their heritage is a source of pride and strength.

Further adding to this chorus of accomplishment, the Philippine Nurses Association of New York (PNA NY) and Dr. Leo Jurado received the 2024 Presidential Award for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO). This prestigious recognition underscores the fact that Filipino nurses not only integrate seamlessly into their host countries’ healthcare systems but often go above and beyond, becoming exemplars of professionalism, cultural competence, and service. The FiND Network takes immense pride in witnessing such honors because they validate our work in creating pathways for Filipino nurses to thrive globally.

As we reflect on the achievements of this year, it’s clear that they are not isolated successes. They are part of a larger narrative—one that FiND strives to shape. The FiND Network exists to empower Filipino nurses by fostering excellence, leadership, and collaboration. The accomplishments of Manu, Edmund, Dr. Castillo, Karissa, and Maria Victoria, along with the recognition of PNA NY and Dr. Jurado, show us that our efforts to build supportive networks, champion mentorship programs, and advocate for professional development are paying dividends. These milestones offer tangible evidence that Filipino nurses can and do excel when given the opportunity and support.

However, we must also acknowledge the challenges that persist. The global nursing community continues to confront workforce shortages, inconsistent access to resources, and inequities in professional advancement. Representation matters, but representation alone is not enough. FiND’s work does not end with celebrating our newest leaders; it extends to advocating for systemic changes that ensure more Filipino nurses can follow in their footsteps. These successes must inspire not only pride but also action. We must continue investing in leadership training, encouraging research and scholarship, forging alliances with nursing organizations worldwide, and pushing for policies that dismantle barriers to career progression.

As 2025 approaches, we stand at a pivotal moment. The achievements of 2024 have set a remarkable precedent, demonstrating what is possible. Now, we must build on this momentum, fostering a future where even more Filipino nurses step into leadership roles and help shape the future of global healthcare. The FiND Network is committed to nurturing this cycle of success, ensuring that the brilliance of Filipino nurses continues to shine brightly, guiding our community and inspiring a better, more inclusive world of nursing for all.

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Patrick’s academic foundation was set early. After graduating from the De La Salle University (DLSU) Human Biology program, he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Dr. Carlos Lanting College. Keen on advancing his knowledge, he then undertook a Master of Arts in Nursing (MAN) at both the University of Santo Tomas (UST) and the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center Inc. (UERMMMCI). These experiences provided him with a unique clinical lens, allowing him to understand patient needs and the operational intricacies of healthcare settings.

Upon graduation, Patrick embraced an unconventional route. He began his career in Singapore as a Research Coordinator at the National University of Singapore. There, he worked on Phase I to III oncology clinical trials, a complex area requiring precision, empathy, and multidisciplinary teamwork. Patrick’s efforts proved pivotal when he led a pioneer Phase I Clinical Trial Unit—an innovative endeavor that positioned Asia at the forefront of cutting-edge oncology research. The intensity and challenges of this role set the stage for his future achievements.

Seeking broader horizons, Patrick moved to Canada, taking on the role of Clinical Research Manager at one of Ontario’s largest hospital networks. In this capacity, he oversaw oncology trials, ensuring that protocols were followed, patients were supported, and results met the highest standards of integrity. His leadership, shaped by his nursing background, allowed him to collaborate seamlessly with clinical staff, understanding their perspectives and challenges firsthand.

Today, Patrick serves as an Associate Director at one of the world’s largest multinational pharmaceutical companies—an impressive feat by any measure. Reflecting on this journey, he says: “My journey from being a nurse to becoming a Global Study Associate Director was more like connecting the dots…My nursing background helped me understand concepts better in clinical trials and allowed me to understand ways of working with other nurses involved in clinical trials.” This understanding enables him to bring a patient-centered focus to high-level strategic discussions, bridging the gap between scientific rigor and compassionate care.

Patrick’s nursing roots also inform his leadership style. “When there were issues, I was able to understand the nursing perspective and this allowed me to provide better input to the team,” he notes. His approach demonstrates that clinical expertise and empathetic leadership can work in tandem to create meaningful improvements in patient care and operational efficiency.

For Filipino nurses aspiring to succeed in non-traditional roles, Patrick offers a clear message of encouragement: “I would advise Filipino nurses to take on any career opportunities that open up, and work hard to be the best at it. Hard work (and working smart) will bring success no matter where that door leads you.” These words underscore his belief that nurses, equipped with clinical insights and adaptability, can excel in global research and pharmaceutical leadership.

Patrick’s story exemplifies how a nurse’s perspective can profoundly shape the future of healthcare. By embracing new opportunities, leveraging clinical backgrounds, and consistently striving for excellence, nurses can transcend traditional boundaries and emerge as global leaders driving innovation in patient care.

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Currently serving as the Program Director for Nursing Informatics at NewYork-Presbyterian, Dr. Dia has leveraged her background to influence healthcare on multiple fronts. She has published extensively, developed graduate-level courses, and served as an adjunct faculty member at CUNY—amplifying her impact on future generations of nurses. As President of the Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA) from 2020–2022, she advanced advocacy, equity, and collaboration, strengthening partnerships with organizations like the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, Asian Health Coalition, and Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments. Her leadership was instrumental in forging collaborations that addressed the unique needs of diverse communities.

Reflecting on her path into nursing informatics and health IT, Dr. Dia explains: “My journey into nursing informatics and health IT was inspired by a passion for creating systems that reflect the true needs of patients, clinicians, and the care team.” This vision is underscored by her recognition of technology as a tool to simplify care and prevent it from burdening already demanding workflows. Instead, she champions a human-centered design approach, ensuring that solutions are intuitive, meaningful, and accessible.

Dr. Dia’s Filipino heritage has played a pivotal role in shaping her leadership style: “My Filipino heritage profoundly shapes my leadership style and professional outlook.” Values like bayanihan (community collaboration) and kapwa (empathy) guide her approach to problem-solving, reminding her that every decision must ultimately serve people. This cultural foundation has empowered her to navigate complexity, foster inclusivity, and ensure that technology solutions remain grounded in the realities of patients and healthcare teams.

Looking to the future of nurses in health IT, Dr. Dia acknowledges both challenges and opportunities: “Nurses in health IT face challenges such as navigating the fast-paced evolution of technology…Yet, these same challenges create opportunities for nurses to become powerful agents of change.” Their frontline experience provides invaluable insights that can lead to more equitable, user-friendly systems—ones that support both clinical staff and underserved populations.

Her advice to aspiring Filipino and internationally educated nurse leaders resonates with optimism and resolve: “You are uniquely equipped to make a global impact. Embrace the principles of human-centered design…Leadership is not about titles; it’s about the courage to drive transformation.” Through resilience, compassion, and a commitment to equity, Dr. Dia encourages nurses to step forward, innovate, and shape the future of healthcare.

Recently honored with the HIMSS Most Influential Women in Health IT Award, Dr. Mary Joy “MJ” Garcia-Dia exemplifies the profound influence nurses can have in bridging clinical expertise with emerging technologies. Her legacy inspires nurses worldwide to embrace human-centered innovation, champion health equity, and lead with empathy—ultimately forging a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare landscape.

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The inception of McCare Global Healthcare Services Inc. (MGHSI) was inspired by Macky’s firsthand experiences as a nurse. “I saw the challenges healthcare professionals faced, particularly the lack of fairness and equity,” he explains. Macky recognized the need for a company that truly understood and advocated for nurses and care aides. “If others without a healthcare background could run a nursing agency, then as a nurse myself, I could do it better—with empathy and understanding.”

Starting without any formal business background, Macky credits his mentor, the late David Janz, for guiding him through the early stages of McCare’s development. Over 10 years, MGHSI has evolved into a trusted name in healthcare staffing, training, and mentorship. The journey, while challenging, has been profoundly fulfilling. “Leadership isn’t about always being right—it’s about learning, listening, and adapting,” Macky shares.

MGHSI’s success stems from its unwavering commitment to solving real challenges for healthcare professionals and facilities alike. Macky built the company on principles of fairness and respect, ensuring healthcare workers are fairly compensated and supported. “This foundation of trust has been the cornerstone of our growth,” Macky emphasizes.

The company addresses critical healthcare staffing shortages across North America by placing travel nurses and care aides in hospitals and long-term care facilities. Beyond staffing, McCare invests in upskilling programs for nurses, particularly in rural and underserved areas, enhancing their professional growth and addressing the unique needs of these communities.

“Collaboration, humility, and shared vision have been essential to our success,” Macky notes. McCare’s recognition for business excellence, including its recent Entrepreneur of the Year and Business Excellence awards at the Golden Balangay Awards, reflects the company’s impact on healthcare.

Looking ahead, Macky envisions McCare Global as more than a staffing agency—it is a source of empowerment for Filipino nurses and care aides worldwide. “Our role is to connect their immense talent to global opportunities while upholding their dignity and advocating for fair treatment,” he says.

McCare is committed to mentoring and supporting healthcare workers as they navigate the challenges of working abroad. The company also champions ethical business practices and promotes policies that improve working conditions for healthcare professionals globally.

“Those who care for others deserve to be cared for as well,” Macky asserts. Through mentorship, training, and advocacy, McCare is poised to set a global standard for excellence, compassion, and innovation in healthcare.

This year, MGHSI celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of dedication to uplifting healthcare professionals and enhancing global healthcare systems. Macky’s leadership reflects his commitment to creating lasting change, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.

As McCare Group continues to grow, Macky’s vision of a more equitable and empowered healthcare workforce remains at the heart of the company’s mission. His journey serves as a testament to the power of empathy, resilience, and innovation in transforming lives and industries. 

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Currently serving as a Consultant at Philippine Army Health Services and a Colonel in the Reserve Force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Maria has made pioneering strides in military healthcare. Known for her visionary leadership and innovative solutions, she has continually championed the welfare of her team and the soldiers she serves.

As the Chief Nurse of the Philippine Army, Maria was instrumental in conceptualizing and establishing the first aeromedical evacuation system in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). This groundbreaking initiative has significantly improved survival rates by enabling rapid evacuation and early treatment of casualties, particularly in conflict zones.

From planning and budgeting to assembling a multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, and aviation personnel, Maria’s leadership ensured the program’s success and sustainability. Her innovative approach and meticulous execution have not only saved countless lives but have also set a new standard for military healthcare.

The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award celebrates the often-overlooked contributions of nurses worldwide who go above and beyond to make a difference in healthcare. Maria’s victory highlights the excellence of Filipino nurses, who consistently demonstrate their expertise, compassion, and resilience on the global stage.

Two other Filipino nurses were also recognized as finalists: Nelson Bautista, representing Filipino nurses in the United Arab Emirates, and Laarni Florencio, representing the United States. Their inclusion reflects the global impact of Filipino healthcare professionals, whose dedication transcends borders.

In her acceptance speech, Maria expressed gratitude and pride in her profession:
“I am deeply honored to receive the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024. Nursing is a truly rewarding profession where we have the opportunity to make a real difference in patients’ lives. This recognition is not just a personal achievement; it underscores the hard work and resilience of nurses everywhere in the world. I am grateful for the support of my colleagues, mentors, patients, and family who have inspired and guided me.”

The Executive Director of the Filipino Nursing Diaspora (FiND) Network, Dr. Jerome Babate, praised Maria Victoria’s achievement:

“Maria Victoria Juan’s victory is a testament to the excellence and dedication of Filipino nurses worldwide. Her leadership and innovation exemplify the critical role nurses play in shaping healthcare systems and saving lives. This recognition not only highlights her individual contributions but also serves as an inspiration for nurses across the globe to continue making a difference.”

Maria’s career embodies the essence of nursing as a calling to serve humanity. Her leadership in implementing the AFP’s aeromedical evacuation system reflects her ability to turn challenges into opportunities, ensuring that soldiers receive timely and life-saving care even in the most remote and dangerous settings.

Her work goes beyond operational excellence; it is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of improvement. Maria has inspired her colleagues to rise to their full potential, creating a culture of trust and teamwork that strengthens healthcare delivery within the Philippine Army.

The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024 is a celebration of Maria’s extraordinary contributions, but it is also a call to action for the global healthcare community. Nurses are often the unsung heroes of healthcare, and Maria’s recognition shines a light on the critical role they play in saving lives, improving systems, and shaping the future of healthcare.

Maria’s story also serves as an inspiration for aspiring nurses, especially from the Philippines, to embrace their profession with passion and purpose. Her achievements highlight the boundless opportunities available to those who lead with vision and compassion.

Maria’s win is a moment of pride not only for the Philippines but also for the global nursing community. Her dedication and achievements reflect the Filipino spirit of resilience, care, and excellence. Alongside Nelson Bautista and Laarni Florencio, Maria has elevated the status of Filipino nurses on the international stage, proving that their contributions are invaluable and worthy of the highest recognition.

Maria Victoria Juan’s victory at the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024 is more than a personal milestone; it is a celebration of the transformative power of nursing. As a leader, innovator, and advocate, Maria has set a benchmark for excellence that will inspire generations to come.

Her work reminds us that nursing is not just a profession—it is a mission to serve, heal, and improve lives. Maria’s legacy will continue to resonate, not only in the Philippines but across the world, as a shining example of what it means to lead with heart and vision.

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The Filipino Nursing Diaspora (FiND) Network is a global organization committed to empowering Filipino nurses worldwide through education, advocacy, and collaboration. FiND promotes professional excellence, addresses healthcare challenges, and fosters meaningful partnerships across disciplines and borders. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI), based at the University of Adelaide, is a world leader in evidence-based healthcare research. Its global fellowship program equips healthcare professionals with skills to synthesize and implement research into practice, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

The JBI Fellows, composed of Filipino nurses, physicians, and allied health professionals, recently completed their Australia Awards Fellowship on Evidence Synthesis in Universal Health Care. This intensive two-week program provided them with advanced training in systematic reviews, exposure to Australia’s dynamic healthcare research environment, and opportunities to expand their professional networks.

“This collaboration underscores the transformative power of shared expertise and multidisciplinary teamwork,” said Prof. Violeta Lopez, President of the FiND Network. “By engaging with the JBI Fellows, we are forging a path toward improving healthcare systems through research and evidence-based practices tailored to the unique needs of diverse populations.”

During the meeting, discussions revolved around potential joint initiatives, including co-authored research projects, workshops on evidence-based healthcare, and the development of culturally appropriate healthcare frameworks. Both groups emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to address global health disparities and enhance UHC efforts.

The fellows also shared insights from their Australia Awards Fellowship experience, reflecting on the skills and knowledge gained and their commitment to integrating evidence-based practices in their respective fields.

This meeting highlighted the shared commitment of FiND and JBI Fellows to fostering innovation and improving healthcare globally. Through ongoing collaboration, both organizations aim to create meaningful, lasting impacts in research, education, and healthcare delivery.

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When Bert began his journey in aged care in 2012, he was entering unfamiliar territory. “As an overseas-trained nurse, dementia care was something new to me,” he recalls. “Filipino nurses often gravitate toward acute care in public hospitals, so entering aged care was a unique path.” Despite the challenges, he found his true calling. “What kept me in aged care is the scope of influence—the opportunity to touch lives in a long-term capacity. Building relationships with residents and their families and witnessing the beauty and quality of life in old age have been truly rewarding.”

Bert’s leadership at Beachhaven Care Home has redefined care delivery, emphasizing both operational excellence and compassion. “To be an effective leader, you must communicate your vision clearly and make every team member feel valued,” he shares. By fostering collaboration and camaraderie, Bert empowered his team to achieve groundbreaking improvements in dementia care. “It’s never a one-man job,” he emphasizes. “Our success came from team effort, listening to each other, and providing opportunities for growth.”

Beyond work, Bert prioritized creating a supportive environment for his team, encouraging team-building activities where colleagues became friends. His leadership style has inspired not only his team but also aspiring caregivers and healthcare leaders. “Never stop dreaming, and when you dream, aim big. The world is your oyster,” he advises. Reflecting on his early days as a caregiver, he says, “Those humble beginnings fueled my passion to improve the sector, finding ways to make it better for residents and staff alike.”

Bert also challenges healthcare leaders to embrace their influence and strive for meaningful change. “Let’s be relentless in our pursuit of providing better care. Together, we can create a healthcare system that’s not just better than it was but even better for future generations.”

Through passion, innovation, and resilience, Bert Ubay-Ubay has elevated aged care standards and inspired a new generation of caregivers to lead with heart, proving that meaningful change begins with a commitment to make a difference, one life at a time.

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“My focus on dietary acculturation and biculturalism stems from being an immigrant myself,” shares Dr. Serafica. “As a 1.5 generation immigrant, I experienced the duality of navigating two cultures and recognized how acculturation significantly shapes dietary habits and health outcomes.” His research identifies chronic disease risks among Filipino-Americans, advocating for culturally tailored interventions and access to culturally appropriate foods in underserved communities.

Dr. Serafica’s clinical role enables him to merge mental and physical health perspectives with cultural identity. “This perspective helps me approach research holistically, considering psychological and sociocultural dimensions,” he explains. His experiences enrich his teaching, where he mentors students in critical thinking and patient-centered care, focusing on cultural resilience.

A Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and the Transcultural Nursing Society, Dr. Serafica serves as Associate Editor of the Journal of Transcultural Nursing. He frequently publishes on systemic inequities in healthcare, aiming to influence policies through evidence-based research.

To aspiring nurse researchers, Dr. Serafica advises, “Find your passion, embrace cultural competence, and build collaborative networks. Research should drive policy and systemic change.” He highlights the importance of mentorship, encouraging students to use their unique perspectives to promote equitable healthcare practices.

Dr. Serafica’s work in culturally informed healthcare not only inspires future practitioners but also drives meaningful changes in the nursing field, underscoring the value of bridging cultures in clinical practice and research.

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