Abstract
The conference on Global Health was a success as we arduously worked toward enhancing culturally competent care and creating global partnerships in health. Nurses from more than 40 cultures participated in the conference. The participants’ presentations highlighted various topics related to nursing education, nursing in practice, nursing in research, and nursing in administration. Moreover, nurses could network with other nurses locally and internationally.
Our keynote speaker, Dr. Katie Boston-Leary, from the American Nurses Association, delivered a powerful message that was rooted in the work of our founder, Dr. Madeleine Leininger. We thank Dr. Boston-Leary for joining us in promoting culturally competent care globally so we can reach out to all the nurses worldwide.
Allow me to say that our work has just begun in networking and creating global partnerships. My interaction with nurses from different corners of the world during the conference has made me aware of the need to network and connect with everyday nurses trying to make a difference in the lives of those they serve. In addition, the current events taking place in some areas of the world are making me more acutely aware of the role of the nurse in helping to improve global health and how much of an impact it can create by understanding and supporting each other regardless of what corner of the world we are practicing nursing.
Maintaining caring relationships with nurses from all over the world is a fragile endeavor. As an organization that promotes the understanding of people, we need to share our expert knowledge and skills, and I am confirming again that the Transcultural Nursing Society is in a unique position to promote social change and contribute to the emancipation of nurses from all corners of the world so we can educate and train other nurses. We can also create partnerships not only to do research but also to apply our research findings to improve health policies and nursing administration within different geographical contexts. We are committed to better serve the populations that need culturally specific nursing interventions.
As we engage in a new year, we are fervently preparing for our 2024 TCNS 50th Anniversary nursing conference. So, let us reach out to our colleagues locally and internationally to create an atmosphere of belongingness for better health outcomes.