Nazleen’s decade-long tenure at AKU Hospital in Karachi became the cornerstone of her professional development. She served as a clinical instructor, nurse specialist, and head nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). During this time, she became a master trainer in lactation management and played a vital role in helping the institution achieve International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and Joint Commission International (JCI) certifications, hallmark standards of healthcare excellence. Her work extended beyond clinical care to include quality assurance, process improvement, and mentorship of young nurses, cementing her reputation as a leader in neonatal nursing.
In 1999, Nazleen transitioned to Oman, taking on an NICU supervisory role that expanded her horizons further. In 2004, she relocated to Canada and joined the prestigious SickKids Hospital in Toronto. Over the years, she honed her expertise in neonatal care, staff training, and quality assurance, becoming a respected figure in her field. Her career path reflects a lifelong dedication to improving neonatal health outcomes and empowering healthcare workers.
Nazleen’s commitment to sharing her knowledge was evident on her February 2018 TKN assignment at AKU in Karachi, Pakistan. Focusing on clinical assessments in the NICU, she conducted sessions in the NICU, Pediatric Unit, and the School of Nursing to share updated knowledge and promote best practices in hospital care settings. In October 2024, again as a TKN volunteer, Nazleen brought her wealth of experience to the French Medical Institute for Mothers and Children (FMIC) in Kabul. FMIC is a leading healthcare institution in Afghanistan, known for providing high-quality care to adults and children. Established through a public-private partnership, the hospital is managed by AKU on behalf of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
Nazleen’s mission was to assess the NICU's needs, identify gaps in specialized procedures, and align practices with international guidelines. She approached this task with the same passion and rigor that has defined her career. Through a comprehensive needs assessment, she pinpointed areas requiring improvement, from clinical protocols to staff training. Beyond technical skills, she worked closely with the NICU team and FMIC leadership, addressing challenges collaboratively and proposing sustainable solutions.
Nazleen's impact extended far beyond clinical enhancements. Her ability to mentor and inspire the nursing staff created a ripple effect, empowering them to embrace new approaches and strive for higher standards of care. Her work was not just about filling gaps; it was about building a foundation for long-term growth and resilience within the NICU team. This approach exemplified the essence of global collaboration in healthcare—sharing knowledge, fostering innovation, and creating lasting change.
Nazleen's contributions at FMIC were highly valued. She received a certificate of appreciation and a thoughtful gift from her team, reflecting their gratitude, admiration, and the local culture of hospitality and respect that appreciated her time at the hospital. Nazleen's unwavering dedication to neonatal care and mentoring nurses has left an indelible mark on FMIC and its staff. Her work serves as a reminder of the critical role nurses play in shaping healthcare systems and improving patient outcomes. Her journey to become an international nursing leader stands as a testament to resilience, the power of education, and the transformative impact of service.
As Nazleen looks to the future, she remains steadfast in her commitment to advancing her skills and giving back to the global community she holds dear. Her story is not just one of personal achievement but also of the profound difference one individual can make through passion, expertise, and a spirit of service.
