- Three Bolton nurses shortlisted for awards at Student Nursing Times Awards
- Nurse Oluchi Okoroafor is a finalist in five different categories
- Winners will be revealed on Friday 24 April 2026 at a ceremony in London
Three nurses at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust are finalists at the prestigious Student Nursing Times Awards 2026.
Kizzy David has been shortlisted in the Practice Supervisor of the Year award and Ashleigh Jones is a finalist in the Learner of the Year: Post-registration category.
Nurse, Oluchi Okoroafor who provides care on Ward D3, has been shortlisted for five awards: Mary Seacole Award for Outstanding Contribution to Diversity and Inclusion, Most Inspirational Student Nurse of the Year, Outstanding Contribution to Student Affairs, Student Innovation in Practice, and Student Nurse of the Year: Adult.
On her nominations, Oluchi said:
“It feels like a powerful recognition not just of my hard work, but of the patients, mentors, colleagues, my family, and fellow students who have shaped my nursing journey. To be acknowledged across categories that reflect leadership, inclusion, innovation, and student advocacy means so much to me because those are areas, I am honestly passionate about.”
Oluchi moved from Nigeria to the UK in 2016 and felt compelled to start a career in nursing after experiencing the care and compassion of nurses when her daughter was born prematurely in 2018.
“Nursing has challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, think critically outside the box and lead with compassion. I’ve especially valued the opportunities to advocate for patients, support fellow students, and contribute to initiatives that improve inclusion and practice.
“Seeing the real impact of compassionate care has been the most rewarding part of my journey.”
In less than a decade, Oluchi’s made a considerable impact on the nursing profession both in the UK abroad, completing a short-term international placement in Finland and taking a remarkable opportunity from the University of Salford to mentor and lead teaching and simulation sessions for Dutch nursing students during their international nursing week.
After completing her training at Royal Bolton Hospital, Oluchi now works as a registered nurse on D3.
“My time at Royal Bolton Hospital has been inspiring and transformative. I have felt highly supported by all team members, encouraged, and empowered to grow.
“The culture of teamwork and patient-centred care here has reinforced why I chose nursing in the first place. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside professionals who are deeply committed to excellence and who invest in developing students. The experience has strengthened my clinical skills, leadership abilities, and passion for making healthcare more inclusive and innovative.”
Oluchi now mentors students to inspire them on their own journeys into healthcare and champions other international nurses.
“Excellence is not about perfection, rather it’s about consistency, resilience, hard work, compassion, and courage. I want students to know that their voices matter, that innovation can start with a simple idea, and that advocating for inclusion and diversity strengthens our profession.
“If my journey encourages even one student to believe in themselves, take initiative, and lead with integrity, then I will consider that a true achievement.”
‘Fostering a positive learning environment’
Kizzy David, who is a finalist in the Practice Supervisor of the Year award, said she is honoured to be nominated:
“As a nurse at Bolton Royal Hospital, this recognition is a humbling validation of my dedication to providing exceptional care and support to my team. It fills me with immense pride to be acknowledged for my role in fostering a positive learning environment and nurturing the next generation of nurses.
“This nomination inspires me to continue working hard, striving for excellence, and contributing to the growth and success of our incredible nursing team. It’s a privilege to serve the patients and the community, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference every day.”
The Student Nursing Times Awards winners and finalists will be celebrated on Friday 24 April 2026 at a ceremony in London, bringing together the nursing community to shine a light on the brightest talent making their way into the profession.
