In celebration of Women’s Month, we are delighted to feature exceptional Filipino women who are shaping British society across diverse fields. While each one of them tells a unique narrative, they are bound by a shared resilience and an unwavering commitment to their passions. Though their career paths differ, they are united by a common thread: an openness to learning and a deep connection to their roots. These women are proud stewards of Filipino heritage, embodying our shared values as they carve out space for excellence in British society.
“There will be challenges and barriers, particularly because of our gender and background, but do not let them define you. Keep moving forward. Use your voice. Stand tall in who you are.” – Jennifer Caguioa
Please describe your current role/work.
I am a Senior Clinical Manager in NHS England’s Nursing Directorate, Midlands region. Alongside this role, I proudly serve as an elected Council and London Board Member for the Royal College of Nursing — the largest union and professional body for nurses — representing more than half a million nurses across the UK.
Every role I hold is driven by one purpose: to ensure nurses are supported, valued and empowered to lead change.
What is the maxim you live by?
The phrase, “Learn how to bend and you’ll never break,” has guided me since my earliest days in nursing. For Filipinos, it speaks to our resilience, adaptability and quiet strength. Life will test us — but when we learn to bend with grace, we discover an inner strength that carries us forward, wherever the journey takes us.
Tell us the biggest challenge that you faced and how you overcame it.
Finding my voice and learning to use it boldly have been my greatest challenge. I have often been seen as a quiet leader: calm, respectful and reserved. But I saw first-hand the harm caused by invisibility and silence, particularly for global majority nurses whose contributions too often go unrecognised.
That realisation changed me. I chose to step forward, speak up and lead with courage — not just for myself, but so that others could be seen, heard and valued. In finding my voice, I discovered my purpose.
What is the one achievement that you are most proud of and why?
I am deeply honoured to have been awarded Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to Nursing, following my inclusion in The King’s Honours List in 2025. I was also recognised very recently as one of the Ten Outstanding Global Filipino Nurse Awardees in January 2026 by the Philippine Nurses Association of America Foundation.
This moment affirmed not only my journey, but the collective strength of Filipino nurses worldwide. Yet, beyond titles and awards, my greatest pride will always be becoming a mother to my three children, who are my constant source of purpose, strength and inspiration.
What would be your advice to young Filipino girls of today?
Believe in yourself, especially when the world makes you doubt. There will be challenges and barriers, particularly because of our gender and background, but do not let them define you. Keep moving forward. Use your voice. Stand tall in who you are. You deserve to be seen. You deserve to be heard. And you deserve to be recognised.
