A Voice for Nursing on the Global Stage
Nurses play a vital role in shaping the future of global healthcare.
Through its work with the United Nations, Sigma Nursing gives members opportunities to learn about global advocacy, support international health initiatives, and help ensure nursing perspectives are represented in conversations that shape healthcare worldwide.
Since 2022, Sigma Nursing has held Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). This designation allows Sigma to contribute nursing expertise to United Nations (UN) discussions and collaborate with nongovernmental organizations and global leaders focused on health and human development.
Sigma Nursing’s work with the United Nations complements its partnerships with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Council of Nurses (ICN), helping ensure nurses have a voice in conversations that shape global health.
Sigma Nursing’s UN program is led by volunteers who attend UN events and activities on behalf of Sigma’s global membership. Six UN liaisons and three youth representatives help strengthen Sigma’s voice in global health discussions while sharing insights and opportunities with members around the world.
Many of today’s biggest healthcare challenges—from health equity and education to food security and mental health—are reflected in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Sigma Nursing provides resources and chapter guides to encourage its members and chapters to advance these goals through leadership, education, research, advocacy, and service in their own communities.
Around the world, Sigma chapters are already making an impact by:
- Creating nursing curriculum and study-abroad opportunities for students in developing nations (Goal 4: Quality Education)
- Supporting mental health recovery models in developing countries (Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being)
- Volunteering at local food pantries (Goal 2: Zero Hunger)
Support UN Goals
Explore resources that help align your chapter’s work with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Strengthen Global Advocacy
Join Sigma’s Global Advocacy Mini Virtual Academy—a six-week virtual, cohort-based program—to find your advocacy voice.
Stay Connected
Follow Sigma Nursing’s UN liaisons on The Circle for updates from UN events and programs.
Representing Sigma Nursing
Our Sigma UN Liaisons and Youth Representatives
Six Sigma UN liaisons and three youth representatives represent Sigma to the United Nations Department of Public Information (DPI) and the non-governmental organization community. These positions promote leadership to enhance Sigma member engagement by attending and/or participating in various UN events, programs, and activities with the purpose of gathering information to inform and advise the Sigma Global Initiatives department, with the ultimate goal of fulfilling Sigma’s mission.
Abeer Alharthi
Sigma United Nations Liaison
Jitana Benton-Lee
Sigma United Nations Liaison
Sheryl Garriques-Lloyd
Sigma United Nations Liaison
Sanele Lukhele
Sigma United Nations Liaison
Siobhán O'Connor
Sigma United Nations Liaison
Amy Staley
Sigma United Nations Youth Representative
Marin Strong
Sigma United Nations Youth Representative
Jasper Erwin Tolarba
Sigma United Nations Liaison
Regina Yuen
Sigma United Nations Youth Representative
Support Our Global Efforts
The invaluable activities of Sigma’s Liaisons and Youth Representatives to the United Nations are made possible through contributions to the Sigma Foundation for Nursing’s future fund.