John Bryan P., RN and Sofia Shain E., RN Named as October 2025 Employees of the Month

At Health Carousel International (HCI), we take pride in celebrating nurses who embody compassion, resilience, and dedication to their calling. Each month, we honor clinicians whose stories reflect the heart of international nursing: commitment that transcends borders, challenges, and change.

For October 2025, we are proud to recognize John Bryan and Sofia, two nurses whose professionalism and humanity shine brightly in everything they do.

John Bryan P., RN – South Carolina

Originally from the Philippines, John Bryan, or JB, as his colleagues affectionately call him, serves in the Trauma ICU in South Carolina. With more than five years of ICU experience in the Philippines before moving to the United States, JB’s story is one of perseverance, courage, and continuous growth.

When he first learned about HCI through a friend, JB saw it as the bridge to his American dream. That dream, once distant, has since become a living reality; one where he has not only achieved professional growth but also built a life of purpose and service.

“I am almost done with my contract with Health Carousel, and to be awarded Employee of the Month would be a great way to express my gratitude and to inspire other Filipino nurses to go beyond their comfort zone.”

Working in a Trauma ICU, JB is no stranger to high-pressure situations, yet his calm presence and technical precision have earned him deep respect from both colleagues and patients. He recalls moments that tested his skills and spirit; like handling a CRRT patient with multiple drips; but views each challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow.

His team describes him as dependable, kind, and deeply compassionate. JB’s ability to connect with patients on a human level, while maintaining exceptional clinical performance, sets him apart. His presence brings comfort; his leadership inspires trust, and his humility reminds others of what nursing is truly about: service, skill, and heart.

“JB’s compassion and professionalism elevate the morale of our entire unit. He is a model nurse whose presence makes everyone better.” – DON, Trauma-Surgical ICU

For JB, this recognition is not just an award but a full-circle moment that honors his journey and reaffirms his belief in perseverance. His message to other international nurses is simple yet powerful: step out of your comfort zone, because growth begins where fear ends.

Sofia Shain E., RN – Oregon

From the Philippines to Oregon, Sofia’s journey reflects the courage and optimism of a nurse determined to make a difference. With experience in adult and pediatric critical care, including ICU, surgical wards, and PICU, Sofia brings both technical skills and deep compassion to her work.

Her path to the United States began when she discovered HCI’s Aspire Program—an initiative that helps nurses prepare for and transition into American practice. Just a year into her US journey, Sofia has already made a lasting impression on her patients and team.

“It’s vital to build good working relationships with both patients and colleagues. That’s where you grow the most, because a healthy environment strengthens skills, confidence, and care.”

Sofia is known for her positivity, empathy, and teamwork. Colleagues say she’s always the first to lend a hand, no matter how busy the shift gets, and that her calm demeanor steadies the unit even in the most demanding moments. She has earned admiration not only for her skill, but for her genuine warmth and sincerity.

“Sofia goes above and beyond in everything she does. Her kindness, calm presence, and teamwork lift the entire team.” – Assistant Nurse Manager

Winning the Employee of the Month Award, Sofia says, means her dedication and care are being recognized is a reminder that her commitment to every patient and every task has meaning. More importantly, it motivates her to keep delivering quality care and to continue growing in her career.

For Sofia, every day in nursing is a chance to serve, to learn, and to make someone’s world a little better.

Celebrating John Bryan and Sofia

John Bryan and Sofia represent the best of what it means to be an HCI nurse: skilled, compassionate, and grounded in purpose. Their journeys remind us of that excellence in nursing is not just measured by technical mastery but by empathy, teamwork, and the quiet strength that defines great caregivers.

At HCI, we are proud to stand beside them and all our international healthcare professionals who bring light, hope, and healing to wherever they serve.