At the heart of one of the world’s most prestigious nursing institutions is a Filipino nurse whose work is transforming not just academic pathways, but lives. Kevin Fernandez-Mills, an award-winning nurse academic at the Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care at King’s College London, embodies excellence not as a destination, but as a daily practice—rooted in cultural pride, inclusivity, and lifelong learning.
Recently ranked 1st in the world for nursing by the 2025 QS World University Rankings by Subject, King’s College London’s faculty is globally recognized for excellence in education and research. “With a Faculty that traces its origins to Florence Nightingale’s Training School for Nurses, it’s inspiring to see that, after 165 years, we continue to lead globally in nursing education and research,” Kevin shares.
What sets this faculty apart, according to Kevin, is its people. “What truly sets FNFNMPC apart is its rich, diverse community, encompassing thousands of staff and students from various backgrounds,” he says with pride. “We honour Nightingale’s legacy by ensuring our programmes are led by world-leading subject experts. Our commitment to inclusive, innovative pedagogies and international collaborative partnerships further contributes to the high quality of education our graduates receive.”
With over a decade of clinical and academic experience, both in the UK and internationally, Kevin’s journey into nursing was shaped by a passion for respiratory care and transcultural nursing—fields where he became a practice educator and later, a leader. He has been recognized with accolades such as the Royal College of Nursing’s Making-a-Difference Award (2021), the 2018 Most Outstanding Professional Award, and a 2024 Outstanding Alumni Award.
Yet, it is Kevin’s current role as Faculty Lead for Widening Participation that truly reflects his advocacy for equity in education. “At King’s, I’m fortunate to lead initiatives that promote equity, diversity, and inclusion,” he says. “These experiences have not only shaped my current role but also reinforced my commitment to advancing nursing education and research, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to the future of the profession.”
As a proud Filipino nurse, Kevin’s message to others in the diaspora is deeply moving—and a call to action. “To all my fellow Filipino nurses and aspiring students, remember that excellence is a journey, not a destination. We carry with us a rich tradition of caregiving, compassion, and resilience—values deeply rooted in our Filipino culture that should serve as a constant source of strength and inspiration.”
Kevin reminds us that the essence of nursing extends beyond clinical care. It’s about challenging ourselves, evolving with purpose, and lifting others along the way. “Embrace curiosity, ask questions, and challenge yourself to grow both professionally and personally,” he urges. “Never stop learning. The future of nursing depends on individuals who not only meet expectations but also strive to exceed them.”
From leading student-focused initiatives that open doors for underrepresented groups, to shaping national guidance on international student experience, Kevin is a clear example of how nursing leadership can shape the future of healthcare from both the classroom and the bedside.
His work is grounded in authenticity—an educator who has walked the path of many he now mentors. It’s this grounded wisdom that resonates deeply, especially among Filipino nurses seeking to rise through the ranks of education, research, and leadership.
Kevin’s story is not just about awards or recognition—it’s about visibility. “Filipino nurses remain the largest group of overseas professionals on the NMC register in England, comprising 29% of all overseas professionals,” he previously said, “yet we are underrepresented in academic and leadership roles.” His leadership reminds us that representation matters. And more importantly, that it is possible.
To aspiring nurses, especially those with Filipino roots, Kevin’s journey is a beacon of hope. It affirms that your heritage is not a barrier—it’s a strength. That your story, your perspective, and your voice are essential in shaping the future of global nursing.
And to the world, Kevin Fernandez-Mills is a reminder that excellence, when rooted in equity and empathy, becomes something far greater: a legacy of care that transcends borders.
