Many professionals spend years trying to balance work and personal goals, but for one Filipino nurse, learning itself became a lifelong calling. Abdurahman Sending Abing, a registered nurse now based in Helsinki, Finland, has built a career defined not only by compassion but also by an unrelenting pursuit of education.
At 37, Abdurahman has earned six degrees, four professional licenses, and two international nursing recognitions—accomplishments made possible by discipline, faith, and a deep love for learning. “My passion to keep learning motivates me to pursue further education,” he shares with TGFM. “Each degree represents a step toward becoming a better version of myself and making a more meaningful contribution to society.”
Currently a nurse in Finland, Abdurahman’s professional journey began at Medina College in Zamboanga Sibugay, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing. His drive for knowledge led him to obtain a Master of Science in Nursing, major in Nursing Informatics, from St. Jude College in Manila, and a Master of Arts in Education, major in Educational Management, from St. Louis College in La Union. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from CAP College in Makati, where he became a Registered Psychometrician, and a Certificate of Professional Teaching from AMA University in Quezon City. His latest academic milestone was earning a Bachelor of Healthcare in Nursing from Metropolia University of Applied Sciences in Finland.
Shaping a global perspective
Abdurahman’s career took him far beyond Philippine borders. He worked for several years as a Nursing Informatics Specialist at Kuwait Hospital, a role that demanded both clinical and technical expertise. During that period, he also volunteered as a Lecturer for the Philippine Nursing Association in Kuwait (PNAK) for four consecutive years, helping fellow nurses enhance their skills.
“Working abroad has completely impacted my perspective,” he reflects. “In Kuwait, I learned resilience and adaptation; in Finland, I learned the value of equality and trust in healthcare and education. These experiences encouraged me to become not just a better nurse and educator, but also a more empathic and globally aware professional.”
His leadership roles further strengthened his connection to the Filipino community overseas. He served as President of the Teacher Specialist Organization in Kuwait (TSOK) and Vice President of the Philippine Professional Organization in Kuwait (PPO)—positions that allowed him to mentor and advocate for Filipino professionals pursuing licensure and continuing education abroad.
Balancing such responsibilities with academic work wasn’t easy. “I was almost ready to give up due to the tremendous workload and restless nights,” he admits. “But I reminded myself of why I began—to learn, to serve, and to inspire others. That experience proved to be a watershed moment for me, teaching me that adversities are frequently the catalyst for growth.”
Learning as a lifelong purpose
Throughout his career, Abdurahman has viewed teaching as an extension of care. Whether he’s guiding a student nurse or supporting a colleague abroad, his philosophy remains simple—education multiplies the impact of compassion. “What I most enjoy about teaching and mentoring is the ability to inspire others to believe in themselves,” he says. “Helping professionals uncover their abilities and passion reminds me of why I chose this path—to make a long-term difference through education and compassion.”
His achievements include passing multiple board examinations and obtaining licenses as a Registered Nurse (RN, 2014), Licensed Professional Teacher (LPT, 2019), Registered Psychometrician (RPm, 2025), and Registered Midwife (RM, 2024). He is also a Ministry Registered Nurse (MRN-Kuwait, 2014) and an EURN (Registered Nurse in Finland, 2024).
Despite the heavy workload and constant studying, Abdurahman credits his family for keeping him grounded. “My family has always served as my greatest source of inspiration,” he shares. “Their continuous encouragement and belief in me kept me going, even when things were tough. They instilled in me the value of knowledge, perseverance, and humility. Every degree I’ve obtained reflects their love, sacrifice, and support.”
Abdurahman’s dedication to lifelong learning has not only shaped his professional success but also inspired those around him. His voluntary work, leadership, and pursuit of excellence embody his belief that education can change lives. He explains, “My motivation stems from a strong desire to improve and serve others. I consider learning as a blessing that allows me to inspire, teach, and care for people in more meaningful ways. There is always room for improvement, no matter how far I have come.”
To his fellow overseas Filipino workers and young professionals, his message is heartfelt and clear: “Never stop dreaming. Education is an invaluable instrument that no one can take away from you. Balancing employment and academics may be difficult, but with commitment, faith, and perseverance, you can succeed. Every single step gets you closer to your dream.”
A journey of purpose and gratitude
Looking back, Abdurahman’s academic path—from a valedictorian at Jolo Agricultural School to earning multiple degrees across the Philippines and Europe—speaks of resilience and gratitude. As a young student, he was already a first honor awardee at Simbahan Central Elementary School, showing signs of his early dedication. His name has since appeared in books that highlight outstanding Filipinos abroad, including A River of Teas in the Valley of Triumph and Superheroes in Scrub Suits by Ulysses Espartero, as well as The Diary ni Gracia, which featured his extraordinary success story.
Now living in Helsinki, Finland, Abdurahman continues to work as a nurse while embracing his lifelong mission to teach, learn, and inspire. “Education opened countless doors for me,” he says, “but more importantly, it shaped me into someone who can help open doors for others.”
