The recently concluded National Nurses Association of Kenya (NNAK) AGM/Conference was a grand affair, where the inaugural Nurses and Midwife of the Year Awards (NMOYA) recognized exceptional nurses across the country. Leonard Otieno, endearingly referred to as “The Nurse” or “ Otieno the Nurse “ by his colleagues; a critical care nurse at the KNH Prime Care Centre (KPCC), won the prestigious “National Winner” title in the first-ever Nurses/Midwife of the Year Awards (NMOYA), under the National Referrals Category. This award celebrates his dedication to clinical excellence and his innovative contributions to nursing. The NMOYA award, established this year in collaboration with Nice & Lovely Baby Naturals, celebrates nurses and midwives who have gone above and beyond in clinical practice, education and innovation. Leonard’s win is a testament to his commitment to patient care and his role in advancing nursing standards within KPCC and beyond. Leonard’s path to nursing was driven by a deep desire to help others, and his journey has been marked by resilience and determination. From assisting at a local dispensary in Siaya during his school years to becoming an expert in Critical Care Nursing, Leonard has consistently shown dedication to his profession. His innovative contributions, particularly the development of the KPCC/CCU handover tool, have significantly enhanced the continuity of care for patients. This innovation is a demonstration of his dedication and commitment to improving healthcare delivery. “It’s an honor to represent KPCC and to be recognized for my contributions,” Leonard shared. “This award fuels my passion to keep improving and to inspire other nurses to strive for excellence.” Leonard’s remarkable achievement in securing this accolade is particularly remarkable as he surpassed other noteworthy contenders, including Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospitals, which came in a distant second and third, respectively. His journey to this recognition involved a highly competitive selection process that included essay submissions, nominations and rigorous interviews. “Leonard is a very resourceful individual, his hard work and commitment towards nursing and nursing care is highly applaudable, he’s an incredible team member that we, 9C CCU, are so lucky to have as our own, congratulations once again on your award Leonard,” shared Ms. Ebby Chonge, Leonard’s supervisor and KPCC CCU manager. Social media erupted with praise as followers celebrated Leonard’s achievement. Stella Githaiga commented, “Leonard is a very passionate nurse and advocate of patients. Totally well-deserved award. Congratulations Leonard!” Lucy Ndereba Nyaga added, “Congratulations Leonard, your zeal and commitment to nursing is truly amazing. You are an inspiration and role model to many. God bless you with many more wins ahead.” Reflecting on his journey, Leonard humbly stated, “I am elated and humbled to have been chosen among the vast number of qualified and talented nurses in Kenya. KPCC has been a remarkable place to work, where teamwork and dedication translate to excellent clinical outcomes. I am proud to be part of this team.”
Beyond his clinical duties, Leonard is also the founder of Let’s Talk Nursing, a network of over 900 nurses, and the author of Nursing Beyond the Bedside, published in July 2024. Through his work, Leonard encourages young nurses to pursue continuous learning and to contribute to the nursing profession’s evolving body of knowledge. “Hongera Leonard, your contribution to the Nursing Profession is outstanding. This award recognizes you as Kenya’s best Nurse/Midwife in 2024,” said Hon. Collins Ajwang, NNAK National Chairman. Kenyatta National Hospital Newsline Despite humble beginnings, Leonard has earned numerous accolades over the years, including being named “Star Person of the Year” in 2020 for his work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, with the NMOYA award under his belt, Leonard continues to serve as a role model, advocating for patient-centered care and inspiring the next generation of nurses. Congratulations to you Leonard, you are a shining example of dedication and excellence within the healthcare sector and a true pride of KPCC!