For many professionals, career success is measured by titles, accolades, and promotions. But for Jaypee Landingin, it’s measured by how many lives he can influence, how many nurses he can mentor, and how many patients he can serve with dignity and compassion. At 39, Jaypee is a hospital coordinator in Melbourne, Australia—his role a culmination of nearly two decades of hard work, resilience, and a steadfast vision of transformative nursing leadership.
“I rise, not because I never fall, but because I choose to stand stronger each time,” Jaypee shared with TGFM, describing his life mantra. This mindset has carried him through 12 years of working abroad, first in the UAE and now in Australia, as he continues to lead and inspire in one of the most demanding sectors of global healthcare.
Bridging worlds through leadership and compassion
Jaypee’s nursing career began in the Philippines, where he graduated cum laude and quickly immersed himself in clinical practice and nursing education. “Graduating with honors laid a strong foundation,” he said, “but I knew I had to keep learning, which is why I pursued my Master’s and took PhD-level units in Nursing.”
His overseas journey began in Abu Dhabi, where he was sponsored to work at a prestigious, high-tech hospital affiliated with Johns Hopkins. The move marked a significant shift in his career and perspective. “Working abroad represents more than just a career move—it’s a mission,” he shared. “Coming from a small town with limited resources, I wanted to prove that with dedication and compassion, you can rise beyond circumstances.”
Now based in Australia, Jaypee serves as an After Hours Hospital Coordinator—a leadership role that places him at the center of hospital operations during nights, weekends, and holidays. “I oversee the clinical flow, handle emergencies, resolve conflicts, manage staffing, and make critical decisions when executive leadership is not on-site,” he explained. “What I appreciate most is supporting nurses to deliver the highest standard of patient care while fostering a collaborative and respectful environment.”
For Jaypee, leadership isn’t just about responsibility—it’s about inclusion and empowerment. “As an international nurse, I believe leadership should bridge cultural differences and champion diversity at every level of care,” he said. He strives to create a culturally sensitive workforce that mirrors the communities they serve, thus building trust and improving outcomes across all backgrounds.
Overcoming doubt and building credibility
Despite his experience and qualifications, Jaypee’s journey wasn’t free from setbacks. In Australia, he faced skepticism from local healthcare staff, particularly older colleagues who questioned his authority as a leader. “Some assumed that because they were more familiar with the system, they were more credible,” he recalled. “It was disheartening at times, but I chose to respond with professionalism and clarity.”
Jaypee focused on sound clinical judgment and evidence-based decisions to lead with authority. “Respect isn’t something you demand—it’s something you earn,” he said. “Through clear communication and consistent performance, I gained their trust.”
His leadership has since been recognized with awards such as a Health and Safety Award and a Leadership Scholarship. He also serves on a global organizing committee, underscoring the reach of his influence and his commitment to excellence.
Having grown from these experiences, Jaypee now embraces challenges as growth opportunities. “Failure grounds us,” he shared. “Great leaders are shaped by humility, and the ability to lead with empathy comes from those moments of being tested.”
A vision for the future rooted in service
Looking ahead, Jaypee hopes to bring home the knowledge and skills he has gained abroad to improve healthcare in the Philippines. “My aspiration is to contribute meaningfully to our healthcare system, especially in nursing,” he said. “I want to bridge international standards with local realities—empowering Filipino nurses and enhancing patient safety and care delivery.”
His long-term goal is to mentor future nurse leaders, instilling in them the same values of resilience, ethical leadership, and cultural sensitivity. “I want to build a legacy of care that evolves with society’s needs,” he added. “One that sees nursing not just as a science, but as a healing art that connects with all walks of life.”
For Filipino nurses and workers abroad who may be struggling, Jaypee offers heartfelt advice. “Don’t let your circumstances limit your vision,” he said. “You may come from a humble background, but that doesn’t mean your impact has to be small. Through passion and perseverance, you can rise—and help others rise with you.”
