Bolton NHS Foundation Trust nurses up for national awards

Kizzy David, Ashleigh Jones, and Oluchi Okoroafor, all nurses with Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, have been named finalists at the 2026 Student Nursing Times Awards.

Oluchi Okoroafor, a registered nurse on Ward D3, has been shortlisted in five categories: Student Nurse of the Year: Adult, Most Inspirational Student Nurse of the Year, Student Innovation in Practice, the Mary Seacole Award for Outstanding Contribution to Diversity and Inclusion, and Outstanding Contribution to Student Affairs.

Ms Okoroafor said: “It feels like a powerful recognition not just of my hard work, but of the patients, mentors, colleagues, my family, and fellow students who have shaped my nursing journey.”

Ms Okoroafor is nominated for five awards (Image: NHS)

Originally from Nigeria, Ms Okoroafor moved to the UK in 2016.

She was inspired to pursue nursing after witnessing the care and compassion shown to her family when her daughter was born prematurely in 2018.

She said: “Nursing has challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, think critically outside the box and lead with compassion.

“I’ve especially valued the opportunities to advocate for patients, support fellow students, and contribute to initiatives that improve inclusion and practice.”

Ms Okoroafor completed an international placement in Finland and mentored Dutch nursing students during their international nursing week.

She now works as a registered nurse on D3.

She said: “My time at Royal Bolton Hospital has been inspiring and transformative.

“I have felt highly supported by all team members, encouraged and empowered to grow.

“The culture of teamwork and patient-centred care here has reinforced why I chose nursing in the first place.”

She said: “Excellence is not about perfection, rather it’s about consistency, resilience, hard work, compassion, and courage.

“I want students to know that their voices matter, that innovation can start with a simple idea, and that advocating for inclusion and diversity strengthens our profession.”

Also recognised is Kizzy David, who is a finalist for the Practice Supervisor of the Year award.

“This nomination inspires me to continue working hard.” (Image: NHS)

Ms David said: “As a nurse at Bolton Royal Hospital, this recognition is a humbling validation of my dedication to providing exceptional care and support to my team.

“It fills me with immense pride to be acknowledged for my role in fostering a positive learning environment and nurturing the next generation of nurses.

“This nomination inspires me to continue working hard, striving for excellence, and contributing to the growth and success of our incredible nursing team.

“It’s a privilege to serve the patients and the community, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference every day.”

Ashleigh Jones has also been named a finalist in the Learner of the Year: Post-registration category.

Winners will be revealed on Friday 24 April 2026 at a ceremony in London.

Ms Okoroafor said: “If my journey encourages even one student to believe in themselves, take initiative, and lead with integrity, then I will consider that a true achievement.”

The Student Nursing Times Awards winners and finalists will be celebrated on Friday 24 April 2026 at a ceremony in London, bringing together the nursing community to shine a light on the brightest talent making their way into the profession.