July 2025 Employee of the Month Nominees: Honoring Nurses

At Health Carousel International, we celebrate the courage, resilience, and dedication of our global healthcare professionals. Each nominee this month brings a unique story of perseverance and impact, showing us how international clinicians enrich healthcare across the US.

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Jean Aika H., RN

Current State: New Jersey
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: OR, L&D

With more than five years of experience in the operating and delivery room, Jean Aika brings precision and calm to some of the most critical moments in patient care. She currently works in the UK’s main theaters, where her adaptability and technical expertise allow her to thrive in high-stakes environments.

Jean Aika was introduced to HCI through a friend, and she was drawn to the opportunities for career growth and long-term success. Since beginning her US journey, she has learned to balance independence with teamwork and to adapt quickly in culturally diverse settings.

“Hard work can be both validated and acknowledged when it positively impacts others.”

For her, this nomination symbolizes growth, effort, and the ability to make a meaningful difference in her workplace. Her favorite way to unwind is by enjoying smokehouse meats, a new discovery she has come to love in the US.

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Rose W., RN

Current State: Iowa
Country of Origin: Kenya
Specialty: ER

Rose brings over five years of Emergency Department experience to her practice and is passionate about providing urgent, lifesaving care. Having served as a Nursing Officer in Nairobi, she carries with her the ability to stay focused under pressure while always advocating for her patients.

She chose HCI for its transparency, strong support system, and commitment to the professional growth of international nurses. Transitioning to the US healthcare system taught her the importance of adaptability and collaboration, lessons she carries into every patient interaction.

“Adaptability is key in a fast-paced system, but advocacy and teamwork give patients the best outcomes.”

Rose says being nominated is already an honor, but winning would reflect the combined effort of her team and the opportunities HCI has given her. She finds comfort and community in American food traditions, especially sharing Buffalo wings with friends.

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Reina Marie Q., RN

Current State: West Virginia
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: ICU, MS

Reina Marie has more than five years of nursing experience, dividing her time between the ICU and Medical-Surgical units. As a Charge Nurse, she has worked with ventilators, chest tubes, and complex surgical ICU cases, always demonstrating leadership and focus in high-pressure situations.

Her journey with HCI began when she posted her resume online and was contacted about an upcoming event. Since then, HCI has been a guiding presence in her pursuit of the American dream. She has learned to stay humble, embrace new learning opportunities, and advocate not only for her patients but also for herself.

“Every opportunity to learn is a chance to grow, and advocacy must extend to both patients and oneself.”

For Reina Marie, even being nominated is a victory, as it validates her hard work and effort. Winning would be the highlight of her first contract with HCI, showing how far she has come with support every step of the way.

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Eloisa Mae R., RN

Current State: New Jersey
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: ICU

With three years of experience in a Neuro ICU in the Philippines, Eloisa Mae has built her career caring for critically ill patients who require precision, patience, and empathy. Now in the US, she continues to bring that same commitment to her work in New Jersey.

Eloisa Mae says her American dream began when HCI approached her after she passed her nursing boards in the Philippines. Since then, she has learned that adaptability is vital not only for navigating a new healthcare system but also for life itself.

“Flexibility is essential, not just in the hospital, but in every part of life.”

She describes her nomination as recognition for the often unseen and unheard care provided in the ICU, where many patients cannot speak or express gratitude. Her motivation comes from knowing that her dedication makes a difference. After long shifts, she and her husband often treat themselves to breakfast at IHOP, where pancakes and hot chocolate offer comfort and joy.

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Maria Jemima F., RN

Current State: Maine
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: MS, PEDS

With 14 years of experience in Medical-Surgical and Pediatric nursing, Maria Jemima has also served in critical care roles, bringing depth and versatility to her career. She has guided younger nurses as a preceptor and has managed a wide variety of complex cases, from wound care to pediatric emergencies.

She was first drawn to HCI after reading countless testimonies from nurses who had already made their American dream a reality. Seeing colleagues deployed by HCI gave her confidence that this was the right path. Her transition to the US has taught her the importance of cultural competence and communication as essential tools for effective care.

“Cultural competence and adaptability are not optional, they are the foundation of compassionate care.”

For Maria Jemima, being nominated is a recognition of the perseverance and heart she has poured into her career. Winning would be a meaningful acknowledgment of the sacrifices and dedication that brought her here. When she has time to relax, she enjoys American breakfast staples, especially blueberry bagels with bacon or a hearty avocado omelette.

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Honoring Our Nominees

This month’s nominees—Jean Aika, Rose, Reina Marie, Eloisa Mae, and Maria Jemima—show us what it means to bring resilience, adaptability, and compassion into healthcare. At HCI, we celebrate their journeys, their growth, and the meaningful differences they create in the lives of patients across the US.