On May 30, 2024, Health Carousel's office buzzed with excitement as we welcomed our esteemed PassportUSA Global Ambassadors for a much-anticipated in-person event. These five remarkable individuals, each with their unique journey and story, gathered to share their experiences and insights, enriching the Health Carousel community.
Meet the Ambassadors
Our Global Ambassadors hail from diverse backgrounds and regions, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table:
- Cathrene B. from Breckenridge, MN, is a skilled OR and Medical-Surgical nurse. She was a Nurse Preceptor and seeks to market her diverse skills and advance her career.
- Hope O. from Baltimore, MD, specializes in Medical-Surgical and Pediatrics and has served as a Nurse Manager.
- Liam John W. from Edison, NJ, is experienced in COVID care, ICU, and Neuro ICU. He works in the Neurocritical Care Unit and also serves as a Preceptor and Charge Nurse.
- Melissa G. from Vero Beach, FL, is a seasoned nurse with experience across ER, ICU, and Medical-Surgical units. She holds an MSN, excels under pressure, and served as a Nurse Preceptor.
- Rairai D. from San Angelo, TX, has experience in Med/Surg and Critical Care, and she also serves as a Charge Nurse.
A Day Packed with Learning and Sharing
The schedule ensured that the ambassadors experienced the full breadth of what Health Carousel has to offer. The day kicked off with an office tour, allowing the ambassadors to get a feel of the environment and meet the team. This was followed by a hearty breakfast where initial introductions were made, and stories began to unfold.
Ryan Allex, one of the Global Ambassador (GA) Managers, noted that the diverse backgrounds of the ambassadors enriched the overall experience, providing a better understanding of each individual's journey and tackling cultural differences. "These conversations helped us improve our communication with them, understanding how our messages are perceived through their cultural lens," he said.
Danny Bruce, another GA Manager, added, "Having ambassadors from various parts of the world, especially outside the Philippines, gave us a broader perspective on how we can better cater to our diverse pool of candidates."
Insights and Interviews
The morning continued with a focused marketing session, where the ambassadors learned about the latest strategies and tools to enhance their professional presence. A short break provided a perfect opportunity for one-on-one interviews, capturing personal narratives that would later inspire many.
"The session was very engaging. The ambassadors were eager to learn and implement new strategies to boost their professional profiles," noted Allex.
Bruce also recalled that the interviews were particularly memorable, capturing heartfelt stories that truly highlight the dedication and passion of the ambassadors.
Connecting Over Lunch and Preparing for the Facebook Event
Lunch was a communal affair, with everyone gathering to enjoy a meal and share more personal stories. Post-lunch, the focus shifted to preparing for the upcoming Facebook Live session, ensuring everything was set for a smooth broadcast.
Bruce shared, "The lunch was a great time for informal conversations. We discussed their backgrounds, motivations, and future career paths. One ambassador shared how the opportunities here have not only benefited her but also opened up new prospects for her family."
The Highlight: Facebook Live Session
The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the Facebook Live session. Each ambassador introduced themselves and shared their journey, discussing their motivations for coming to the USA, the practicalities of their move, surprises they encountered, and advice for others on a similar path. They also shared their first sightseeing experiences and memorable meals in the USA, providing a rich collection of personal anecdotes and practical tips.
Wrapping Up with Manager Round Table
The afternoon included an engaging Manager Round Table, fostering a deeper connection between the ambassadors and the Health Carousel leadership team.
"The Manager Round Table allowed for meaningful exchanges. The ambassadors appreciated meeting with the leadership team and felt more connected to our organization," added Bruce.
A Memorable Conclusion
The day concluded with a special IES Dinner, a fitting end to a day filled with learning, sharing, and connecting. The event was a tremendous success, not just for the ambassadors but for everyone involved. It reinforced Health Carousel's commitment to making healthcare work better.
Ending the day with an informal dinner was the best decision, according to Bruce. "It allowed everyone to relax and share their thoughts openly. The ambassadors left with a sense of accomplishment and excitement for the future."
"We had everything planned out well, and the event went smoothly," concluded Allex. For next year, they hope to involve the office more and create activities that facilitate better interaction.
As we look back on this enriching experience, we are inspired by the stories and insights shared by our Global Ambassadors. We eagerly anticipate future events that continue to build on this foundation of community and support.