innovations that could really strengthen how we prepare student nurses for today ' s healthcare challenges.
One moment that gave me chills was when a speaker reminded us that nurses aren ' t waiting for permission to lead anymore. We ' re simply stepping forward because the evidence is clear: nurse leadership creates better health systems and drives health equity. Looking around that room, I could feel the collective determination.
Building Bridges for Future Collaboration
Beyond the formal sessions, the late-night conversations with nurses from across the globe might have been the most valuable part. I ' ve come home with not just ideas but actual connections- people I can reach out to when facing challenges, seeking fresh perspectives, or wanting to collaborate on initiatives that cross borders.
Bringing Global Insights Home
My suitcase is heavier with books and business cards, but my mind is even fuller with insights to share with our NSNA members, faculty advisors, and my colleagues across organizations like ANA, ANNA, ENA, KONL, and my workplace at CHI Saint Joseph Health.
I ' m not coming back with all the answers- far from it. But I am returning with better questions and a broader perspective on what ' s possible when nurses lead. The Congress reminded me that despite our different languages and healthcare systems, we share a common
language of compassion and care that transcends those differences.
Helsinki wasn ' t just another conference for my resume. It was a profound reminder of why I chose nursing and the incredible impact we can have when we connect globally. As they say in Finnish: " Kiitos, Helsinki "- thank you for changing how I see our profession and my role within it.
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