Student Nurse of the Year: Children

Djoumana Kara Abdellah Buckinghamshire New University

Djoumana exemplifies excellence as a Children’s Nursing student, combining technical skill, compassion, and leadership. Inspired by her Algerian herbalist grandmother, she embraces holistic, patient-centered care with empathy and science. Her dedication to helping others is evident in her volunteer pharmacy work and charity fundraising before university. Excelling academically and clinically, Djoumana earns praise for her critical thinking and advocacy. Her cultural sensitivity shines through in bridging language gaps and adapting care to children’s developmental needs. By empowering families through education, she fosters trust and comfort. Her resilience, professionalism, and vision make her a deserving candidate for this nomination.

Lara Cowan Queen's University Belfast

Lara exemplifies the qualities required in a student nurse. She is kind, compassionate and caring, she practices safely and effectively and always upholds professional values. She works with enthusiasm, drive and determination and has a natural leadership style, which encourages others to do the same. She is a fabulous ambassador for Children's Nursing.

Gabriella Nshirahene University of East Anglia

Gabriella, a third-year student in the Children and Young People’s Nursing Programme at UEA, is an exemplary candidate for the ‘Student Nurse of the Year’ award. Her capstone project, addressing racial inequalities in children’s healthcare, reflects her passion for social justice and commitment to improving outcomes for underserved populations. Gabriella’s leadership as a student representative, dedication to fostering community, and advocacy for equity highlight her exceptional character. A role model for peers, she combines academic excellence, compassion, and resilience, embodying the values of nursing. Gabriella’s potential to transform pediatric nursing is boundless, making her truly deserving of this honor.

Jessica Pidcock Sheffield Hallam University

I am Jess, a final-year student children's nurse at Sheffield Hallam University. I am autistic and a parent to two autistic boys, one of which has profound learning disabilities. Over the last three years, I have worked on several projects, including going into schools to help educate young people who face additional challenges about higher education and how they belong. I have worked with other neurodivergent healthcare professionals to create training resources on supporting neurodivergent learners in practice. I have also created my own webinar and booklet for student healthcare professionals on caring for autistic children and young people.

Olivia Scott University of Leicester

Lily is a dedicated nursing student on the MSci Nursing with Leadership (Child and Mental Health) program at the University of Leicester. She excels in building trusting relationships with children, young people, and their families, using age-appropriate communication and compassionate care. Lily combines clinical expertise with empathy, ensuring her young patients feel supported and understood. She demonstrates a strong understanding of evidence-based practice and patient safety, advocating for the best outcomes. Lily's ability to tailor her approach to each patient’s needs and her commitment to providing holistic, child-centred care make her a standout candidate for this award.

Sarah Whyatt University of Chester

The student I nominate for this award excels both academically and in practice. Her exceptional placement feedback includes a "Golden Reference" from a Tier 4 Child and Adolescent unit, praising her proactive, empathetic approach and exemplary professionalism. Another instance saw a parent commend her advanced communication and kindness during a clinical procedure, likening her to an experienced nurse. The student is deeply committed, balancing university, placements and her dedication as a young carer. With her compassion, skills, and dedication, there is no doubt that she has promising career ahead.