Head of Nursing at the National Radiotherapy, Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, has been named the winner of the prestigious 2025 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award.

The award, which comes with a prize of $250,000, recognises exceptional nurses from around the world who have demonstrated outstanding dedication, innovation, and impact in the field of healthcare.

Mrs. Oyoe Ohene’s victory is a proud moment for Ghana and a powerful tribute to the vital role of nurses in cancer care and beyond.

Speaking after receiving the award in Dubai on Monday, May 26, she expressed deep gratitude and reflected on her professional journey.

"Over two decades ago, I began my nursing journey with a simple mission to ease pain, bring hope and walk alongside those battling cancer. In Sub-Saharan Africa, I have witnessed firsthand inequities in cancer care, especially in under-resourced communities, but I have also seen the immense potential of nurses to lead transformative change," she said.

She was earlier shortlisted as one of the top 10 finalists from across the globe, selected from thousands of nominations.

Her work at Ghana’s foremost oncology centre has been widely commended for its compassionate care, clinical excellence, and advocacy for improved cancer treatment in the country.

She said, "My passion for oncology nursing was born out of a desire to bridge this gap and deliver compassionate, high-quality care to those who need it most."

Her recognition not only highlights her personal achievements but also shines a light on the critical contributions of oncology nurses in Ghana’s healthcare system. Her efforts have helped bridge gaps in palliative care, enhanced patient support systems, and promoted awareness of early cancer detection and treatment.

The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award is an initiative of Aster DM Healthcare, aimed at honouring nurses who have gone above and beyond in their duties to care, heal, and innovate. Mrs. Oyoe Ohene’s win places her among a distinguished cohort of global health professionals whose work is transforming lives daily.

According to her, "This award affirms it more, dreams and empowers me to do even more. It is more than recognition, it is a catalyst for lasting change. I am committed to using it to amplify the voice of African nurses and expand access to cancer care, and build a legacy of leadership and excellence in oncology nursing across our continent (Africa)."

As Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti brings the award home, she carries with her not just international acclaim, but the hopes of many who continue to believe in the power of care to change the world.

The Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, one of the most distinguished recognitions in the nursing profession, received over 100,000 registrations from nurses across 199 countries.