The Foundations of Amaree
Amaree Women’s Network was founded with a bold and transformative vision: to create a future where Global Majority women in nursing and midwifery are not only visible, but leading at the highest levels of healthcare decision-making.
The idea was born during a breakout session at the Getting to Equity Programme, where Nunu Moyo, Zoe Ntokozo Mhlanga, Yvette Roach-Smith, and Nobert Machisa (a member of the Jabali network) reflected on workplace challenges. The conversation shifted from concern to possibility. Inspired by the success of Jabali, Nunu asked:
“What’s stopping us? Let’s have our own.”
That moment sparked action. Nunu shared the idea with the wider forum, and an additional nine remarkable women stepped forward to become Amaree’s founding members.
The name Amaree, of African and Asian origin means courage, compassion, and strength. It reflects the spirit of the network and the women it represents.
Who We Are
Amaree was established to support Global Majority women working at Agenda for Change Band 8C and above across the NHS and partner organisations. We recognised the need for a dedicated space to champion leadership, visibility, and progression.
Our Core Ambitions
Leadership Progression
Supporting Global Majority women to advance into senior and executive roles.
System Impact
Driving improvements in care quality, patient experience, and outcomes by influencing policy and research through strategic collaboration.
Career Empowerment
Equipping ambitious professionals with the skills, confidence, and networks needed to thrive and lead.
Our Commitment
Amaree is proudly sponsored by the Chief Nursing Officer for England and is one of four organisations within the CNO Ethnic Minority Advisory Committee (EMAC).
More than a network, Amaree is a movement - building a legacy for future generations to inherit with pride, purpose, and power.
Our History
The Amaree Women’s Network began its journey on 27 March 2023, when a small group came together to shape a mission: advancing women’s leadership in healthcare. This vision quickly gained momentum, and by 4 December 2023, supported by the then Chief Nursing Officer for England; Dame Ruth May & Acosia Nyanin, AWN was officially launched. The event brought together 40 participants from across the NHS, partner organisations, diaspora networks, and system leads, a powerful coalition united by a shared commitment to equity and transformation.
Just one year later, on 6 December 2024, AWN hosted its first annual conference. Nearly 100 people from all walks of life gathered to learn, connect, and contribute to the growing movement. Alongside these milestones, AWN has provided progression support for members, hosted webinars to share knowledge and skills, and created virtual cafés to nurture health and wellbeing.
These initiatives reflect our belief that leadership is not only about professional advancement but also about sustaining the whole person. Each step in our journey builds momentum toward a lasting legacy of advocacy, mentorship, and cultural transformation in healthcare.
Tagline:
“Empowering Global Majority Women to Lead Healthcare’s Future.”
Mission Statement:
Our mission is to champion leadership, visibility, and progression for Global Majority women in nursing and midwifery. We strive to create a dedicated space where ambition meets opportunity-supporting women to rise into senior and executive roles, influence system-wide change, and build a legacy of equity and excellence.