Nurse Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti from Ghana Receives Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award
Dubai – Nurse Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti from Ghana has been awarded the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025, receiving a prestigious USD 250,000 prize at a grand ceremony in Dubai, UAE.
The honored nurse, Oti, holds the position of Oncology Nurse Specialist and serves as the Head of Nursing at the National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.
Founded in 2021 by Aster DM Healthcare, the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award celebrates the outstanding contributions of nurses worldwide across various domains, including leadership, research, innovation, and community service.
This fourth edition of the award saw remarkable participation, attracting 100,000 applications from nurses across 199 countries, marking a 28% increase from the previous year’s submissions.
A highlight of the ceremony was a message from Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization, who commended the finalists and recognized Aster DM Healthcare for its commitment to honoring the crucial roles of nurses globally.
The award was presented by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mabarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, UAE, in the company of dignitaries including Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare (www.AsterDMHealthcare.com), Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare, T.J. Wilson, Executive Director and Group Head of Governance & Corporate Affairs at Aster DM Healthcare, and other esteemed guests.
His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mabarak Al Nahyan remarked: “The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award serves as a vital platform that honors one of the most noble and impactful professions in human history – nursing.
“Nurses are the frontline warriors in any healthcare system.
“They provide care, comfort, and hope during critical times and embody the highest ideals of humanity through their compassion and selfless dedication.
“In the United Arab Emirates, we hold nursing professionals in high regard, recognizing the tireless devotion of those in this essential field.
“The late founding father of our nation, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – may his soul rest in peace – envisioned a healthcare system based on human dignity, where every healthcare worker is appreciated and supported.
“This vision continues today under the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, who believes that investing in healthcare professionals equates to investing in the future of our nation and the well-being of all.
“On this occasion, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the winner of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025, as well as to all the outstanding finalists.
“Each individual represents a beacon of compassion, resilience, and service to humanity.
“Their recognition underscores the significant impact nurses have on individuals and communities around the world.
“We reaffirm the UAE’s steadfast commitment to enhancing the global stature of the nursing profession and honoring those who protect lives and provide care with dedication and respect.
“This award exemplifies the spirit of tolerance, solidarity, and human fraternity that is at the core of our national values.”
In response to her recognition, Nurse Naomi Ohene Oti expressed: “Receiving the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award is an incredibly humbling experience.
“This acknowledgment is not just mine; it belongs to every nurse in Ghana, Africa, and beyond who leads with resilience, compassion, and courage.
“For over two decades, I have witnessed the disparities in cancer care and devoted myself to addressing these gaps through training, outreach, and systemic change.
“This award will empower us to amplify our efforts – enhancing training, establishing faculty, and inspiring the next generation of oncology nurses throughout Africa.
“At the heart of my journey lies a simple truth: nursing is not merely a profession – it is a catalyst for social justice, equity, and hope.
“Today, I represent not only myself but every African nurse who fears not to innovate and serve, even in the face of adversity.”
Naomi Ohene Oti from Ghana is an Oncology Nurse Specialist and Head of Nursing at the National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, where she has revolutionized patient care, initiated specialized nurse training, and championed equitable cancer outcomes.
She has been instrumental in developing and launching oncology nursing training programs in collaboration with international institutions like the Cross Cancer Institute in Canada, providing exceptional cancer education to local nurses in Ghana and significantly improving patient outcomes.
In 2015, she participated in an expert team that designed the nation’s postgraduate oncology nursing curriculum, and under her mentorship, over 60 oncology nurse specialists and 10 breast care nurses have been trained, significantly broadening specialized care services across the country.
Nurse Oti’s influence transcends national borders.
She is an active member of the education and training committee for the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC) and serves as a co-investigator on the Global Bridges Oncology GM Grant.
Nurse Oti has also co-led initiatives with ISNCC and has contributed to shaping continental competencies and policies in cancer nursing while mentoring over 48 nurses from various African nations.
As a global faculty member with ASCO’s Multidisciplinary Cancer Management Courses, she integrates African nursing perspectives into international cancer discussions, advocating for culturally responsive care.
She has received numerous national honors, including the Ghana’s Ministry of Health Excellence Award and the prestigious Dr. Dorcia Kisseh International Award from the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association.
Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare commented: “Nurse Naomi Ohene Oti has transformed the role of a nurse – not only as a caregiver but as an innovator, leader, and change-maker.
“Her contributions uplift not only patients but also the entire healthcare system, establishing a gold standard for others to follow.
“Each of the Top 10 finalists has demonstrated extraordinary dedication, skill, and compassion in their work.
“These nurses are not just healthcare providers but true leaders, challenging boundaries and making a significant impact in their communities.
“Their exceptional contributions deserve recognition, and through this award, we celebrate their commitment and passion for enhancing lives across the globe.”
Alisha Moopen, Managing Director & Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare, added: “Naomi Ohene Oti’s journey is a powerful reminder of the everyday heroism taking place in hospitals, clinics, and communities worldwide.
“We are incredibly proud to showcase her work on a global platform, and through her, honor the millions of nurses who sustain healthcare systems and support humanity’s growth.”
The other nine finalists included:
- 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 the U.S.,
- Khadija Mohamed Juma from Kenya,
- Maheswari Jaganathan from Malaysia,
- Dr. Sukhpal Kaur from India, and
- Vibhaben Gunvantbhai Salaliya from India, who were also recognized for their impactful contributions to nursing.
These nurses were selected through a rigorous review process led by Ernst & Young LLP, involving a panel of screening jury members and the Grand Jury.