BCNU Celebrates National Nursing Week 2025

May 08, 2025

May 12 – 18 events celebrate the power of nurses to transform health and shape the future of care

BCNU proudly celebrates National Nursing Week with a variety of events and initiatives recognizing the remarkable contributions of nurses across British Columbia. From a province-wide advertising campaign to international opportunities and awards that recognize excellence, the union is honored to showcase the dedication and resilience of its members.

This year’s theme, The Power of Nurses to Transform Health, highlights the essential role nurses play in redefining health care and providing compassionate, patient-centered care.

2025 BCNU Leadership Award Recipients

BCNU’s annual leadership awards recognizes exceptional individuals who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to nursing excellence and social justice and who exemplify the core values of our union.

As part of our National Nursing Week celebrations, we are proud to announce this year’s BCNU Leadership Award winners.

  • Vancouver Metro region’s Abbey Glowicki, recipient of the NU Leader Award, which honours a student or early-career nurse (under five years of experience) whose passion and advocacy reflect strong union values.
  • Central Vancouver region’s Jessica Machado, recipient of the Excellence in Leadership and Advocacy Award, who is recognized for her profound impact on nursing leadership and her unwavering dedication to equity and justice in health care.

Province-Wide Radio Tribute

Beginning May 12, radio listeners in BC will hear a special message from BCNU President Adriane Gear, reminding them of the care that nurses provide in hospitals, long-term care facilities and the community, and thanking BCNU members for their unforgettable work. Listen now.

BCNU Delegates Attend International Nursing Congress

Four BCNU members – including one Indigenous nurse – have been selected to attend this year’s International Council of Nurses (ICN) Congress, taking place June 9–13 in Helsinki, Finland,

This year’s ICN theme, Nursing Power to Change the World, underscores the global influence of nurses as leaders in health care transformation. Congratulations to the selected delegates:

  • Jessica Dahl (North West)
  • José-Louis Huberdeau (Okanagan Similkameen)
  • Keara Manrique (Shaughnessy Heights)
  • Jacqueline Guest (Okanagan Similkameen)

National Student Nurses Day

Students are encouraged to join BCNU on Wednesday, May 14 at 12 p.m. noon PDT for an informative one-hour webinar on the union’s commitments to diversity, equity, inclusion, truth and reconciliation and Indigenous-specific anti-racism.

Attendees will learn how these commitments are manifested in collective agreement language and other union initiatives that help strengthen a sense of belonging and foster solidarity among members.

Register for webinar

Celebrate With Us: Regional Events Across BC

BCNU regions are hosting events to honour nurses, including workshops and community gatherings. For details, visit the BCNU Events Calendar or contact your regional council member.

Thank you to all nurses for your unwavering commitment to excellence, advocacy, and the future of health care.

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