From Africa to the World: Celebrating Nursing Leadership at RCN Congress 2025
Fellow Nurses Africa | Lagos, Nigeria | May 14th 2025
The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Congress 2025, currently unfolding in Liverpool from May 11-15, is a week-long celebration of nursing excellence, diversity, and global impact.
This vibrant event has already recognised 30 exceptional nurses and healthcare advocates through prestigious awards, including RCN Fellowships, Honorary Fellowships, and Awards of Merit. Among the luminaries being honoured are two extraordinary African nursing leaders—Wendy Olayiwola BEM, President of the Nigerian Nurses Charitable Association UK, and Dr. Felicia Kwaku OBE, Director of Education for the same organisation—whose transformative contributions to global health, equity, and nursing leadership are captivating audiences worldwide.
RCN Congress 2025: A Week of Nursing Innovation
RCN President Bejoy Sebastian opened the Congress with an inspiring call to action: “These awards are an opportunity to celebrate the brilliance of our members and the tireless work you do for our profession.” As the event continues through May 15, 2025, it is showcasing the pivotal role of diversity and inclusion in shaping the future of healthcare.
From advancements in patient care to groundbreaking policy reforms, RCN Congress 2025 is highlighting the vast scope of nursing’s impact. The recognition of African nursing leaders like Wendy Olayiwola and Dr. Felicia Kwaku underscores the importance of culturally competent care and equitable leadership in tackling global health challenges.
RCN Fellowship: Honouring Wendy Olayiwola, Dr. Felicia Kwaku, and More
The RCN Fellowship, one of the highest honours in UK nursing, was awarded to seven distinguished individuals whose work is redefining the profession. This year’s recipients include:
Both Wendy and Dr. Kwaku were also celebrated by Fellow Nurses Africa during the 2025 International Women’s Day as part of the “Trailblazing African Nurses Shaping Healthcare” campaign, which spotlighted 24 African nurses transforming healthcare worldwide. Their commitment to African and UK health systems highlights their roles as global advocates for mentorship, cultural awareness, and systemic change.
- Wendy Olayiwola BEM, President of the Nigerian Nurses Charitable Association UK and National Maternity Lead for the NHS Race and Health Observatory. Her pioneering efforts to address the Black maternal mortality gap through research and advocacy have reshaped maternity care standards across the UK, earning her the 2025 RCN Fellowship.
- Dr. Felicia Kwaku OBE, Director of Education for the Nigerian Nurses Charitable Association UK. A champion of race equality, her strategic work addressing systemic disparities in the NHS and advocating for workforce diversity earned her the Chief Nursing Officer’s Gold Award in 2024 and now the 2025 RCN Fellowship.
- Professor Judith Ellis OBE, recognised for delivering nursing education in conflict zones and fostering leadership in low-resource settings.
- Professor Diana Greenfield, celebrated for her contributions to nursing research and practice.
- Kumbi Kariwo, honoured for innovative wound care protocols tailored for patients with darker skin tones, advancing equitable care.
- Professor Juliet MacArthur, acknowledged for her leadership in nursing education and policy.
- Professor John Unsworth OBE, recognised for his impactful work in nursing innovation and leadership.
Read more about their inspiring journeys and the International Women’s Day 2025 recognition here: Trailblazing African Nurses Shaping Healthcare.
Honorary Fellowships: Global Voices in Nursing
In addition to the RCN Fellowships, Honorary Fellowships were bestowed upon five influential nursing figures, including Linda Silas, President of the 250,000-strong Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions. Silas, who delivered a keynote speech on nurse-to-patient ratios at RCN Congress 2024, returned to inspire attendees with her advocacy for global nursing solidarity. These Honorary Fellowships recognise individuals whose contributions extend beyond borders, amplifying nursing’s global impact.
The Congress also celebrated six recipients of the RCN Award of Merit and acknowledged student ambassadors, forum leaders, and frontline representatives, reflecting the collective effort driving nursing forward.
The Global Impact of African Nursing Leaders
The recognition of Wendy Olayiwola and Dr. Felicia Kwaku at the ongoing RCN Congress 2025, as of May 13, 2025, is a testament to the growing influence of African nursing leaders on the global stage. Their leadership within the Nigerian Nurses Charitable Association UK and their work addressing critical issues—such as maternal health disparities, race equality, and culturally sensitive care—resonate far beyond the UK.
By championing equity and inclusion, these trailblazers are paving the way for future generations of nurses to lead with compassion, innovation, and resilience. Their stories, amplified by platforms like Fellow Nurses Africa, inspire a renewed commitment to global collaboration and health equity.
Join the Celebration: RCN Congress Continues
As RCN Congress 2025 continues through May 15, it remains a dynamic platform for celebrating nursing’s role in driving systemic change. The recognition of African nursing leaders like Wendy Olayiwola and Dr. Felicia Kwaku highlights the importance of cultural competence and diversity in building stronger, more equitable healthcare systems.
Stay connected with Fellow Nurses Africa for exclusive interviews and updates on the remarkable contributions of African nurses worldwide. Follow the ongoing Congress to witness more stories of leadership and reform!
Stay tuned for more inspiring features on nursing excellence and global health equity by joining our newsletter.
