Lilliana Amsale 

Why continuing an education is so important to her:

"I am deeply honored to have been accepted into UCLA's Master of Nursing program, an opportunity that aligns seamlessly with both my career aspirations and academic background in Healthcare Administration. Through my undergraduate studies, internships at multiple hospitals, employment as a nurse assistant, and extensive volunteer work in healthcare settings, I have developed a profound appreciation for the pivotal role nurses play in healthcare delivery. This experience has solidified my desire to specialize in nursing management.

My commitment to advancing into healthcare management is driven by a recognition of the critical need for leadership that not only ensures operational excellence but also fosters inclusivity and diversity within patient care. The Master of Nursing program at UCLA is particularly appealing because of its unique curriculum designed to transition nurses from bedside care into impactful leadership roles. This program perfectly complements my bachelor's degree and prepares me to effectively lead and innovate in nursing management.

As I embark on this new academic journey, I plan to leverage my comprehensive background in healthcare operations, policy, and ethics, enhancing my understanding of strategic planning and resource management within nursing. My firsthand clinical experiences have imbued me with a patient-centered approach to healthcare, which I aim to uphold in my leadership style.

Additionally, I intend to further develop my leadership skills through targeted coursework and professional development in areas such as conflict resolution and effective communication. I am also committed to expanding my professional network by connecting with seasoned healthcare leaders and participating in relevant industry conferences..."

Lilliana proudly supports:

Ethiopian-Eritrean Student Association at California State University, Long Beach

California Black Women's Health Project

Lilliana, what does the term “Golden Women” mean to you?

“To me, a golden woman embodies resilience, wisdom, and warmth. She is like gold—maintaining her value and luster through challenges, and emerging stronger. Her leadership is defined by generosity and inclusivity, making her a pillar of strength in her community. She shares her success and knowledge, mentoring and uplifting others, and fosters a collaborative environment where everyone feels empowered.

A golden woman also commits to lifelong learning and personal growth, continually expanding her horizons. She leads with integrity, guiding her decisions with fairness and honesty, and earning the respect of those around her. Her ethical stance makes her a moral compass, inspiring trust and admiration.

In essence, a golden woman enriches lives, leads empathetically, and continuously evolves, both personally and professionally. She uses her strengths to create opportunities for others, exemplifying what it means to live a meaningful life. As I strive to emulate these qualities, support from the Golden Woman Foundation would help me develop as a leader who guides and inspires others towards success and fulfillment.”

Lilliana, describe something that is plaguing young women today and explain what can be done to turn it around? What can you do to help?  

“One significant issue plaguing young women today, particularly in university environments, is the challenge of mental health, which often goes undiscussed due to stigma and cultural barriers. This is especially pronounced among young women from diverse cultural backgrounds, such as those within the Ethiopian and Eritrean communities, where mental health issues may be less acknowledged and more stigmatized. To turn this situation around, it's crucial to foster an environment where mental health is openly discussed, and resources are readily accessible. We can start by increasing awareness and reducing the stigma associated with mental health within the Ethiopian and Eritrean communities. In my role within the Ethiopian Eritrean Student Association at California State University, Long Beach, I can initiate and lead a series of mental health awareness workshops and support sessions specifically tailored to the needs of Ethiopian and Eritrean women. These sessions would not only provide vital information but also create a safe space for sharing experiences and strategies for coping with mental health challenges. Furthermore, collaborating with mental health professionals who understand the cultural nuances and are sensitive to the needs of immigrant communities can greatly benefit these workshops. By bringing in experts, we can provide professional insights and possibly even counseling services, ensuring that the support offered is both culturally appropriate and effective. Additionally, I can work with the association to establish peer support groups where students can connect and support each other in dealing with their mental health in a less formal, but equally supportive environment. These groups can serve as a bridge, reducing the gap between professional mental health support and community-based solidarity. Through these initiatives, we can make a significant impact on improving mental health awareness and support among young Ethiopian and Eritrean women at our university, helping to foster a healthier, more supportive community that recognizes and responds to the mental health needs of its members. This will not only improve their university experience but also equip them with tools to manage their mental health throughout their lives.”