British nurse of Indian origin wins $250,000 global nursing award

A UK-based nurse of Indian origin has received international recognition for her efforts to increase organ donation rates within South Asian populations. Agimol Pradeep was awarded the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2026, which carries a $250,000 prize, in acknowledgment of her advocacy work centred on organ and stem-cell donation initiatives.

The award reflects growing acknowledgment of nurses' contributions to healthcare advancement beyond clinical settings. Pradeep's work has focused on addressing barriers to organ donation within South Asian communities, where cultural and religious considerations often influence donation decisions.

Half of the award amount will be directed towards Upahaar, an organisation working to expand organ donation programmes across the region. This allocation reflects the broader impact of Pradeep's advocacy, extending her influence from individual practice to systemic healthcare initiatives.

The recognition arrives amid ongoing efforts to strengthen nursing workforces in South Asia, particularly in Kerala, where nurse recruitment and retention remain persistent challenges. International awards honouring regional healthcare professionals contribute to efforts in attracting talent to the nursing profession across South and Southeast Asia.