Against the backdrop of the iconic Oodi Central Library, a group of dynamic Filipino nurse leaders from around the world gathered for the 2nd International Roundtable Meeting of Filipino Nursing Leaders, an event that affirmed the rising influence and unity of the global Filipino nursing community.
Organized by the Filipino Nursing Diaspora (FiND) Network, the 1.5-hour luncheon meeting served as a powerful continuation of a journey that began in 2018 at the Australian Catholic University in North Sydney. That first gathering sparked the creation of FiND Network, and this latest roundtable renewed that vision—now with even greater urgency and ambition.
“Though I join you virtually, I am filled with immense joy, pride, and gratitude as I witness this historic moment—the 2nd International Roundtable of Filipino Nurse Leaders unfolding in the beautiful city of Helsinki,” said FiND President Professor Violeta Lopez, PhD, RN, FACN. “This gathering is more than just a meeting. It is a living testament to the vision we shared in 2018… to see it embraced and carried forward by a new generation of FiND leaders is deeply humbling.”
The event brought together an impressive lineup of participants, including Ryann Deloso, interim FiND Country Representative for Finland; Dr. Glenn Ford Valdez, Country Representative for Saudi Arabia; Arcalyd Rose Cayaban, Country Representative for Oman; Macky Bordeos, CEO of McCare Group of Companies in Canada; Ariel Lanada, President of the Filipino Nurses Association United Kingdom; and Dr. Grace Belo Deliarte, National President of the Philippine Nurses Association.
Facilitated by Irene Mayo, FiND Director for Engagement, the meeting focused on the theme: “Enhancing the Visibility and Influence of Filipino Nurses in Global Health Policy.” Discussions revolved around how Filipino nurses can gain greater representation in international policymaking bodies, academic platforms, and global health organizations.
Key outcomes proposed during the roundtable include the drafting of a Call for Action, the formation of a Global Policy and Advocacy Council, and the launch of leadership fellowships and policy registries to support Filipino nurses aspiring to shape global health decisions.
Also joining virtually were Dr. Jerome Babate, FiND Executive Director, and Professor Leo Felix Jurado, PhD, RN, FAAN, Dean of DeSales University in the USA. Both offered insights on diaspora leadership and the need for a unified voice in shaping equitable health systems.
The roundtable closed with a group photo and renewed commitment to work collaboratively across borders. As Professor Lopez emphasized, “Let this be a moment of passing the torch… so Filipino nurses are not just contributors to global health—but recognized leaders, policy shapers, and advocates for justice.”
FiND’s next steps include sharing the roundtable outcomes globally and inviting more nurses to join this growing movement for representation, equity, and visibility.
