Nigerian former beauty queen and Nollywood star Regina Askia-Williams thrives as Family Nurse Practitioner in the United States
Fellow Nurses Africa 22nd, March, 2026
Regina Askia-Williams once ruled the screens in Nigeria. She was a famous beauty queen and actress. Today she has a new and rewarding career as a nurse in America.
Born on 16 December 1967, Regina first gained fame as a beauty queen. In 1988 she won Miss UNILAG. The next year she became Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN).
In the 1990s and early 2000s Regina was one of Nollywood’s top stars. She acted in many hit films. She earned high pay during the industry’s big boom.
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Her big move to the United States
Regina moved to America in the early 2000s with her family. She arrived in New York just before the 9/11 attacks in 2001.
She wanted more stability and purpose. So in her 40s she returned to school. She trained at Wagner College and earned her nursing degree.
She kept going. Regina became a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). This role lets her treat patients, run clinics and make a real difference every day.
Her life as a nurse today
At 58 years old, Regina now owns Regina Medical Services. Her primary care clinic and med spa serves people in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.
She also works at Englewood Hospital. There she has cared for patients in COVID units, transplant wards and intensive care.
New York State recently honoured her for dedicated service. Her story shows age is never a barrier to success.
Why her story inspires so many
Regina’s journey is part of a bigger trend called “Japa”. Many talented Nigerians move abroad for better jobs and security. Nursing gives them good pay, respect and the chance to help others.
Beyond her clinic, Regina advocates for change. She supports children’s health and better nursing education in Africa. She shares her lessons on Instagram (@reginaaskia).
She often says: it is never too late for a new beginning. Her path from red carpet to hospital floor proves that point.
Regina Askia-Williams continues to show the world that determination and hard work can create a fresh, fulfilling life. Her story motivates nurses and career changers everywhere.
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Kehinde Oluwatosin is one of the many editors here at Fellow Nurses Africa and fellownurses.com.
He is a registered nurse with a Master of Science degree in healthcare leadership from the University of Hull, United Kingdom. Kehinde is passionate about advancing the nursing profession across Africa. As Co-Founder of Fellow Nurses Africa, he plays a key role in shaping editorial direction, ensuring our content educates, informs, and empowers nurses continent-wide.
With expertise in leadership, patient flow, and healthcare operations, Kehinde brings valuable insights to nursing news, career development, and policy discussions. He is committed to amplifying the voice of African nurses and driving positive change in the profession.
