Dr. Kaara Ray B. Calma is a force in the world of nursing education, clinical practice, and healthcare research. With expertise spanning primary health care (PHC), workforce development, and patient health experiences, she has established herself as a leader in shaping nursing’s future. Currently an early career researcher and full-time Lecturer at Griffith University’s School of Nursing and Midwifery, Dr. Calma not only educates and mentors aspiring nurses but also contributes to critical research that informs healthcare policies and reforms.
Her impact on nursing has been recognized on an international scale. In 2018, she was named one of the 21 World Health Organization (WHO) Primary Health Care Young Leaders at the Global Conference on PHC, a prestigious recognition given to individuals driving change in healthcare systems. She was also awarded ‘Recently Graduated Nurse of the Year’ by the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association, a testament to her early contributions to the field.
Beyond these accolades, Dr. Calma remains deeply committed to advancing nursing knowledge. As an Associate Investigator for the MRFF National Multidisciplinary Primary Care Research, Policy, and Advocacy Consortium, she plays a vital role in a nationwide effort to bring together research and policy for the reform of primary care in Australia. Within Griffith University, she mentors undergraduate, Honours, and PhD students, helping shape the next generation of nurse scholars who will continue to drive healthcare forward.
From passion to profession: A journey inspired by science and service
Dr. Calma’s journey into nursing was inspired by both a love for science and a deep commitment to service. A defining moment in her life was witnessing the role of nurses in caring for her late grandfather, who lived with chronic kidney disease. The compassion, skill, and dedication of these nurses left an impression on her, reinforcing the crucial role they play in both healthcare systems and the lives of patients.
This experience motivated her to pursue nursing as a career, recognizing it as a profession that blends scientific knowledge with human connection. Over time, she expanded her work beyond bedside care and into academia, where she could make a broader impact. Through her teaching, research, and leadership, she continues to bridge the gap between clinical practice and policy reform, ensuring that nursing remains at the forefront of healthcare innovation.
The strength of Filipino nurses in global healthcare
At the heart of Dr. Calma’s work is her strong connection to her Filipino heritage. She believes that being a nurse is not just a career choice for many Filipinos—it is a calling deeply embedded in their culture. “We are raised to care for others, to listen, and to advocate. Education is highly valued in my family and the broader Filipino community. That combination of science and humanity is what drew me to this field—and it still inspires my work today,” she shares.
Filipino nurses have long been recognized for their resilience, skill, and commitment, making them an indispensable part of healthcare systems worldwide. Dr. Calma sees a bright future for Filipino nurses, not only in clinical roles but also in leadership, research, and policymaking. “We have always been at the forefront of patient care, but now it’s time to take on roles that shape healthcare itself,” she emphasizes.
Her goal is to see more Filipino nurses stepping into positions of influence, ensuring that their voices are heard in shaping global healthcare policies. She believes that by advancing into leadership, research, and education, Filipino nurses can further elevate the profession and drive meaningful changes in the industry.
Inspiring the next generation of Filipino nurse scholars
Dr. Calma’s academic achievements are as impressive as her professional impact. To date, she has published 20 peer-reviewed papers, accumulating nearly 1,000 citations. She and colleagues have also published two textbook chapters published by Cambridge University Press in the last three years. Dr Calma led the book chapter ‘Developing a career in primary health care’ in the textbook An Introduction to Community and Primary Health Care, published in 2025. And in 2022, she and colleagues from the WHO published a book chapter in the Making Health Systems work in Low and Middle Income countries. She also serves as an Academic Editor for PLOS Global Public Health and an Associate Editor for BMC Nursing, further cementing her role as a thought leader in nursing research.
Her research primarily focuses on strengthening primary health care, improving nursing education, and understanding the experiences of healthcare workers and patients alike. These areas are crucial in addressing the evolving demands of healthcare systems, particularly as the world faces growing challenges in public health and workforce sustainability.
To aspiring Filipino nurse scholars, Dr. Calma offers a strong and encouraging message:
“Nursing is a tough career, yet equally rewarding. It is the privilege of providing bedside care, and it is being in the unique position to advocate, educate, and shape about the future of healthcare. Our voices matter in research and policy discussions, and we must use them to lead and drive improvements in patient care and workforce development. Nurses are leaders, and it is vital that we support one another, and never hesitate to step into leadership roles.”
She also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and collaboration in achieving success. “It takes a village to drive change. No one achieves their goals alone, so build strong networks, seek guidance, and uplift those around you. The nursing community thrives when we work together.”
A legacy of leadership and innovation
Dr. Kaara Ray B. Calma’s story is one of dedication, passion, and perseverance. Her contributions to nursing research, education, and policy are shaping the future of healthcare, ensuring that nurses remain central to driving positive change in the industry.
From her early days as a nurse inspired by her grandfather’s caregivers to becoming a globally recognized leader in primary healthcare research, Dr. Calma has proven that nursing is more than a profession—it is a lifelong commitment to service, education, and advocacy.
As she continues to inspire and mentor future generations of nurses, her legacy grows stronger. Through her work, she is not only redefining what it means to be a nurse but also proving that Filipino nurses are not just caregivers—they are leaders, innovators, and changemakers on the global stage.
