2026 NURSES WEEK AWARD RECIPIENTS

 Exemplary Leadership Award 

Ms. Ngima Sherpa, MSN, RN, FNP-BC, is the recipient of the “NANA Exemplary Leadership Award,” presented in recognition of her dedication, compassion, and longstanding service to NANA since its establishment.

Throughout her years of service, Ms. Sherpa has contributed extensively to community health initiatives, including numerous free health fairs, webinars, and seminars.

In 2012, Ms. Sherpa assumed the role of Treasurer, demonstrating her commitment and willingness to serve in times of need. She also served as coordinator for fundraising efforts in support of victims of the 2014 Mount Everest avalanche and coordinated the Nepal Earthquake Relief Project in 2015. Her election as President of NANA in 2018 further reflects the confidence and trust placed in her leadership by the community.

Ms. Sherpa has distinguished herself as an exemplary leader and mentor within the nursing community. Through her generous sharing of knowledge, experience, and professional passion, she has inspired and supported new generations of nurses.

In light of her significant contributions to NANA and the broader healthcare community, Ms. Sherpa is a highly deserving recipient of this award.

Community Service Award 

NANA is honored to give Ms. Bina Khadka Lama the Nepalese American Nurses Association Community Service Award 2026 in recognition of her exceptional dedication to community service, healthcare advancement, and cultural preservation.

Ms. Lama’s journey is one of perseverance, leadership, and service. A former national Wushu (Kung Fu) player who began her athletic career at the age of 10, she demonstrated discipline and determination early in life—qualities that continue to define her contributions today. After relocating to the United States in 1999, she redirected her passion into healthcare, beginning her career in 2007.

Through unwavering commitment, Ms. Lama advanced professionally from Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to Medication Technician, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), and ultimately earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). She is currently pursuing advanced practice as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), reflecting her continued dedication to improving mental health care access and outcomes.

Beyond her professional achievements, Ms. Lama has made a profound impact through her community leadership. In 2014, she founded Nepali Pathshala, a free Nepali language school in Virginia that has played a vital role in preserving cultural identity and language among younger generations of the Nepali diaspora.

Her service extends further through her leadership role as Vice President of the Nepalese American Community Center (NACC) since 2019, where she has actively supported numerous community initiatives. Notably, she contributed to COVID-19 mass vaccination efforts, helping to protect and educate vulnerable populations during a critical time.

Ms. Lama is also deeply committed to social causes, including supporting survivors of domestic violence and advocating for individuals facing mental health challenges. Her compassionate outreach and advocacy have made a meaningful difference in the lives of many.

Ms. Bina Khadka Lama exemplifies the spirit of service, leadership, and cultural stewardship. Her tireless contributions to healthcare and the community make her an outstanding recipient of this award.

 Excellence in Mentorship Award

Nepalese American Nurses Association (NANA) is proud to announce Ms. Mira P. Neupane, FNP-BC, MSN, RN, BpH as the distinguished recipient of the 2026 NANA Mentorship Award.

As a dedicated Life Member of NANA, Ms. Neupane has consistently demonstrated unwavering dedication and an extraordinary commitment to mentoring Nepalese nurses. Her efforts guide them through the complex journey of becoming licensed professionals in the United States, providing a critical first step toward advancing their healthcare careers.

Ms. Neupane was chosen for this honor based on her exceptional contributions to empowering aspirations and helping foreign-educated nurses navigate US licensing systems. She provides the essential technical and academic framework for career advancement while offering the critical encouragement needed to sustain motivation through rigorous credentialing processes. Her impactful leadership actively expands and strengthens the network of qualified Nepalese RNs in the United States.

Through her profound guidance, encouragement, and support, Ms. Neupane has inspired and empowered countless nurses to overcome institutional barriers and successfully obtain their RN licensure. Her lasting contributions truly embody the core spirit of this award.