Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, Head of Nursing at the National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana, has been shortlisted as one of the top 10 finalists for the prestigious Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025.

This recognition follows her remarkable 23-year career in oncology nursing, where she has transformed cancer care delivery and education across Africa.

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. After a rigorous evaluation process led by expert jury and Grand Jury panels, independently moderated by Ernst & Young LLP, Naomi emerged as one of the top finalists for the US$250,000 Grand Award.

Expressing her gratitude and humility, Naomi shared her excitement, saying, "I am thrilled, humbled, and thankful to God for this recognition. To be selected among the top 10 finalists from thousands of nurses worldwide is truly an honour. I ask for your continued prayers as I prepare for the Grand Finale on 26th May 2025 in Dubai."

Naomi’s selection highlights her profound impact on oncology nursing in Africa. Over the years, she has pioneered oncology nurse training programmes in collaboration with international institutions like the Cross Cancer Institute in Canada and played a key role in developing the postgraduate oncology nursing curriculum in Ghana.

Her leadership has helped train over 60 oncology nurse specialists and 10 breast care nurses, creating a ripple effect of specialised care throughout the nation and beyond.

Her influence spans across Africa, with Naomi serving on the Education and Training Committee for the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC) and co-investigating the Global Bridges Oncology GM Grant. Through these roles, she has mentored over 48 nurses from African nations and brought African nursing perspectives to international cancer forums, advocating for culturally relevant care.

Naomi’s groundbreaking research on breast cancer risk assessment among African women, as well as her contributions to clinical trial protocols, have significantly shaped the cancer care landscape. Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including the Ghana Ministry of Health Excellence Award and the Dr. Dorcia Kisseh International Award.

As the countdown to the Grand Finale in Dubai on 26th May 2025 begins, Naomi’s nomination serves as a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence in oncology nursing and her unwavering commitment to uplifting the nursing profession across Africa.