Catalyst Scholarship Winner: Cynthia

Announcing Cynthia Ginikachi Ubah-Uchenna as the $5,000 Catalyst Scholarship Winner!

Nursing Careers Week is proud to recognize the nurses who are boldly shaping the future of healthcare. This year, we celebrate Cynthia Ginikachi Ubah-Uchenna as the recipient of the $5,000 Catalyst Scholarship—a transformative award that fuels nurses taking their next big educational step.

This scholarship is designed to uplift nurses like Cynthia who are actively advancing their education and preparing to lead in clinical excellence, patient advocacy, and nursing innovation.

A Calling Defined by Compassion and Precision

From the operating room to the classroom, Cynthia’s nursing journey is marked by resilience, precision, and a deep commitment to patient care. She found her calling in perioperative nursing, where she’s witnessed firsthand how teamwork and quick clinical thinking can save lives. One unforgettable moment involved helping resuscitate a patient who went into cardiac arrest during surgery—a pivotal experience that deepened her resolve to pursue advanced practice.

Now studying for her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Suffolk in the UK, Cynthia is on a path toward becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, with long-term aspirations of earning a Doctor of Nursing Anesthesia Practice (DNAP).

Resilience Through Every Challenge

Cynthia’s story is also one of determination against the odds. Originally from Nigeria, she has experienced the challenges of working in under-resourced healthcare settings while balancing a demanding job, family responsibilities, and her studies. Through it all, she has maintained her vision: to align her practice with global standards and to be a leader who both serves patients and inspires peers.

Her experiences have reinforced the belief that while clinical knowledge is essential, it is often empathy and reassurance that make the greatest difference. Whether comforting a nervous patient before surgery or mentoring newer nurses, Cynthia leads with both heart and skill.

A Catalyst for Greater Impact

The Catalyst Scholarship is more than financial aid but a springboard for Cynthia’s future. It will help her pay down academic expenses, focus fully on her BSN program, and move confidently toward her goals of earning a master’s and doctoral degree in nursing anesthesia.

“I believe I bring a mix of experience, determination, and vision,” Cynthia shared. “This scholarship is not just an award, but it is an investment in a nurse who aspires to heal, lead, and teach with competence and compassion.”

Inspired by Nursing Careers Week

For Cynthia, Nursing Careers Week is more than an event but a movement. She’s particularly excited about the career coaching sessions and stories of resilience from nurses worldwide. These insights, she says, will help her grow into a confident, empowered, and globally connected nurse.

Congratulations, Cynthia! Your story is a shining example of what it means to be a catalyst for change in healthcare. We’re honored to support your journey and can’t wait to see where your vision and leadership take you next.