Francis Fernando has once again achieved a remarkable milestone, being named one of the 50 most influential Black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) figures in health by the Health Service Journal (HSJ). This marks his third consecutive appearance on this prestigious list, a testament to his steadfast dedication to advocating for Filipino nurses in the UK and pushing for equality and inclusion in healthcare.
Reflecting on this honor, Francis shared, “It is an absolute honour and privilege to be recognised as one of the top 50 Most Influential BAME Healthcare Leaders by HSJ for the third time. It is really humbling as until now, I’m the only Filipino leader on this very prestigious list of very well-known and influential people in the UK health industry. I believe that my and my officers’ passion for equality, diversity and justice are all equally important factors in ensuring that advocacy for Filipino nurses in the UK is a continued success.”
Filipino nurses have become a vital part of the NHS workforce, with nearly 50,000 serving across the UK. Yet, many of these talented professionals have often struggled to find their voice or advance to leadership positions. Francis has been at the forefront of changing that narrative. As the founder of the Filipino Nurses Association UK, he has been a staunch advocate for the Filipino nursing community, highlighting their invaluable contributions and addressing the barriers they face. Under his leadership, the association has shed light on the tragic toll of COVID-19, where 57 Filipino nurses and healthcare staff lost their lives in the UK. Through his mentorship initiatives, he has empowered countless Filipino nurses to advance professionally, taking up higher-banded and executive roles.
In a message to Filipino nurses worldwide, Francis emphasized the importance of professional growth and seizing leadership opportunities. “I would like to thank all Filipino nurses in the UK and globally for all your hard work, dedication, compassion and courage in ensuring that you represent our country very well and consistently contribute to the delivery of world-class healthcare services,” he shared. “I would encourage you all to continue developing professionally and personally by working with a coach or a mentor, by networking, and by taking some risks in applying for leadership and higher positions in your employment. If others can become world-class chief nursing officers, we all can too.”
Jerome Babate, Executive Director of the Filipino Nursing Diaspora (FiND) Network, expressed his admiration for Francis’s achievements. “Francis Fernando’s tireless dedication to advocating for Filipino nurses in the UK is inspiring. His leadership and commitment have brought tremendous recognition to our community and have opened doors for so many to achieve higher career goals. His work truly embodies the spirit of resilience and unity that we champion at FiND,” he remarked.
With over two decades of experience in the NHS and accolades such as the Florence Nightingale Leadership Scholarship and being a finalist in the 2022 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Awards, Francis Fernando’s influence goes beyond titles and recognitions. He stands as a beacon of empowerment and hope for Filipino nurses and minority healthcare professionals globally. His message is clear: through resilience, mentorship, and the pursuit of equality, any nurse, regardless of background, can achieve extraordinary heights in their career.
Francis’s ongoing efforts to break barriers for Filipino nurses in the UK continue to shape a brighter, more inclusive future. His journey reminds us all that with dedication and passion, change is not only possible—it’s inevitable.
