Nominations for Fifth Edition of Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2026 Now Open

KOCHI:

Aster DM Healthcare has announced the launch of the fifth edition of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, one of the world’s most prominent recognitions for nursing excellence. With a life-changing prize of USD 250,000, the award honours the unsung heroes of healthcare: nurses – whose compassion, innovation, and leadership continue to shape the future of global health systems.

Open to registered nurses across the world, the award invites applications from registered nurses who have made exceptional contributions in Patient Care, Nursing Leadership, Nursing Education, Social or Community Service, or Research, Innovation & Entrepreneurship in Healthcare. Applicants may select one Primary and up to two Secondary areas of contribution to highlight their varied efforts and submit their applications.

Since its inception, the award has drawn participation from thousands of nurses across 200+ countries. The last edition saw registrations from 100,000+ nurses across 199 countries, observing a 28% growth in registrations from the previous edition. Applications for the 2026 edition can be submitted via www.asterguardians.com in multiple languages by 10th November, 2025.

The multi-stage evaluation process will be independently managed by Ernst & Young LLP (EY) and overseen by a distinguished Grand Jury of renowned and respected international healthcare leaders. Following a rigorous assessment, the Top 10 finalists will be announced, leading up to a prestigious global awards ceremony in May 2026, aligned with International Nurses Day.

Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare, commented “Over the past 50+ years of my journey in healthcare, one truth has remained constant: the strength of any healthcare system lies in the hands of its nurses. Their commitment, resilience, and compassion deserve far greater recognition. The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award was born from a deep sense of gratitude, to honour those who stand as the backbone of care and to inspire the next generation to join this noble profession. Today, as the award enters its fifth edition, it has grown into a global movement, acknowledged by thousands of nurses, supported by global health leaders, and celebrated on the world stage. It remains one of the most meaningful initiatives of my life, because to empower nurses is to strengthen the very soul of healthcare.”

Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare added “Every year, we witness inspiring stories of nurses transforming communities, leading innovation, and bringing dignity to the most vulnerable, which restores our faith in humanity. As we mark the fifth edition, our commitment is stronger than ever to amplify their voices, elevate their impact, and inspire a new generation to see nursing not just as a profession, but as a calling that changes lives.”