On 10 December 2025 in Sydney, Australia, the Filipino Nursing Diaspora Network (FiND) proudly presented the inaugural FiND DAISY Advancing Health Equity Award to a nurse leader whose service has strengthened communities, uplifted colleagues, and advanced the mission of health equity with unwavering dedication—Dr. Maria Mares, PhD, RN, BN (Hons). Maria is currently the FiND Network Country Representative for Australia.
This historic award, created in partnership with The DAISY Foundation, recognizes a FiND Network member who exemplifies excellence in community health initiatives, advocacy, volunteer service, and partnership-building. Dr. Mares’ contributions reflect not only her professional expertise but also a profound commitment to the values that define Filipino nursing on the global stage. As she humbly expressed, “ this recognition means a great deal, as it reflects the impact of collective effort, shared purpose, and the strength of the Filipino nursing community worldwide. It also reaffirms why I continue this journey: to serve, advocate, and uplift others, with gratitude for the people and communities who have supported me along the way.”
Her work across multiple domains aligns powerfully with the vision of this award.
Through her leadership of FiND’s participation in the Grand Philippine Fiesta Kultura in Fairfield (October 2024), Dr. Mares strengthened the Network’s presence at one of the largest cultural celebrations in Australia. Under her coordination, FiND provided health information, engaged families, and showcased the vital role Filipino nurses play in community health promotion.
Her advocacy has been equally impactful. Representing FiND within the NSWNMA-led Anti-Racism Collaborative, Dr. Mares helped bring the experiences of CALD nurses to the forefront. Her involvement supported efforts to promote dignity, equity, and safer workplaces—ensuring Filipino nurses in NSW are heard and represented in critical policy conversations. Additionally, she served as a trainer for the national My Health Record project, equipping Filipino community members with vital knowledge to enhance access, continuity, and safety in healthcare.
Dr. Mares’ volunteerism reflects years of meaningful service. She convened the 4th Filipino International Nursing Symposium in Sydney (May 2024), a gathering that elevated dialogues on innovation and global collaboration. She also led the first National Roundtable of Filipino Nurses in Australia, a foundational step in strengthening unity and shared purpose across the diaspora. These initiatives advanced FiND’s mission of connecting Filipino nurses around the country.
Her ability to foster partnerships further amplifies her influence. As convener of the CALD Nurses and Health Workers Alliance Australia, she has built bridges among diverse workforce groups, encouraging collaborative advocacy and shared learning. Her leadership continues to cultivate a strong, inclusive network that benefits multicultural healthcare professionals across the country.
The DAISY Award package she received—which includes a certificate, DAISY portfolio, lapel pin, and the symbolic Healer’s Touch sculpture—serves as a meaningful tribute to her compassion, leadership, and lasting impact.
As the FiND Network Executive Director noted with admiration, “Maria represents the kind of leadership that transforms advocacy into meaningful action and community into collective strength.”
Dr. Maria Mares stands as a shining example of what it means to advance health equity with integrity, purpose, and heart. Her contributions have enriched Filipino communities, strengthened professional solidarity, and inspired nurses across Australia and the world.
FiND celebrates her achievements with deep respect and gratitude, confident that her leadership will continue to open pathways, empower communities, and uplift future generations of Filipino nurses.
