Michael Mark Dalauidao BSN, RN, BSc (Hons), MSc (Distinction), a dedicated Infection Prevention and Control Site Lead Nurse at East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust, was recently honored with the prestigious ‘Diversity and Inclusion Champion of the Year’ award at the Nursing Times Workforce Summit and Awards 2023, held at The Hilton Metropole Hotel in London. This award is a recognition of his tireless efforts in advocating for diversity and inclusion within the UK healthcare workforce.
Reflecting on his journey, Dalauidao shared with The Global Filipino Magazine, “Making a difference in someone’s life has been a cornerstone of my career, beginning in the Philippines and now extending globally. I never anticipated the immense opportunities to pursue my passion for helping others, especially in a country that embraces diverse cultures, beliefs, and nationalities.”
In his role with the Filipino Nurses Association UK (FNAUK), Dalauidao goes above and beyond his professional duties.
“My work with FNAUK, particularly in welcoming and supporting new Filipino nurses, is a labor of love. It’s about building a community for those far from home,” he stated. This initiative includes organizing events, providing resources, and offering personal and professional guidance.
Dalauidao’s advocacy extends to his workplace, where he serves as a support pillar for Filipino staff.
“Whether it’s addressing harassment, illness, or professional challenges, my aim is to be a reliable resource for my colleagues in need,” he explained.
His fundraising efforts, notably for a colleague in critical condition, highlight his commitment to his community.
As a member of the CNO-BAME-SAG, Dalauidao collaborates with nurse leaders to support and empower ethnic minority nurses. His dedication to nurturing future healthcare professionals is evident in his mentoring efforts, having guided numerous healthcare assistants in becoming registered nurses.
Discussing the latest initiative he’s part of, the ‘Untold Stories’ project funded by the Mayor of London’s office, Dalauidao said, “This project is about giving voice to our experiences as Filipino nurses in the UK. It’s about sharing our journey and celebrating our contributions to this diverse society.”
Dalauidao’s newest venture, the WeC.A.R.E charity, underscores his commitment to broader global community support, with projects already underway in Ghana and plans for expansion to the Philippines.
“My vision for WeC.A.R.E is to foster community development, support religious initiatives, and promote education. It’s about giving back in the most meaningful ways possible,” he said.
His philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief of giving back, as he eloquently puts it, “My happiness doesn’t come from what I receive, but from what I am able to give to others. It’s about making a positive impact, one life at a time.”