by Charlotte Pinckney 
In celebration of National Nurses Week, Insight Global’s healthcare division, Insight Global Health (IGH), proudly honored four extraordinary nurses from the Philippines for their outstanding performance, clinical expertise, and deep commitment to care.
As part of this special recognition, Insight Global flew each award winner to its Atlanta headquarters, covering travel and accommodations, to recognize them in person. The company rolled out the red carpet—literally—offering a warm IG welcome to these exceptional nurses during an onsite celebration that included a heartfelt awards ceremony alongside Insight Global employees and leaders.
Each honoree is a graduate of Grit Academy, Insight Global’s premier, Philippines-based training center that equips international nurses for success in the U.S. healthcare system.
The Malasakit Award – Nurse of the Year
Honoring Compassion and Purposeful Action
Awarded to: Dave Reiner Marcos
A former firefighter, medic, and now a trailblazing nurse, Dave embodies the spirit of Malasakit—a Filipino word for deep compassion and intentional care. As the first nurse to join IGH’s U.S. program in Spokane, Washington, Dave blazed a trail for others, offering guidance, rides, resources—even helping with paperwork for fellow nurses.
Known affectionately as “Kuya Dave,” he’s a constant source of strength and support. Twice nominated for the prestigious DAISY Award, Dave is a leader in both word and deed. Whether serving patients, mentoring others, or protecting his church community, Dave leads with heart, grit, and humility.
“With my family by my side, nothing is impossible,” he says.
- From: Pampanga, Philippines
- PH Experience: 18 years as a Registered Nurse
- U.S. Placement: Deaconess Hospital, Spokane, WA
- Family: Wife and three daughters (ages 11, 8, 2), all in the U.S.
Clinical Excellence Award
Recognizing Superior Skills and Sound Judgment
Awarded to: Frankie Lim
Frankie Lim’s nursing journey was far from traditional. Raised by his aunt in the Philippines, he took an unexpected 10-year detour into sales before finally pursuing his dream. In 2021, during the height of COVID, he returned to nursing—and quickly distinguished himself.
A Grit Academy “Learner of the Year” and now a trusted charge nurse at MultiCare, Frankie is known for his humility, care, and quiet leadership. Though he was recently invited to join a leadership panel, he graciously declined, saying he still had more to learn. His team, however, already sees him as a natural leader.
“I’m just doing my job,” Frankie says—but everyone around him knows he’s doing so much more.
- From: Navotas City, Philippines
- PH Experience: 5 years hospital RN
- U.S. Placement: Tacoma General Hospital, Tacoma, WA
- Family: Relocated alone
Bayanihan Award
Celebrating Selflessness, Unity, and Care for Others
Awarded to: Mark Sodusta
Mark Sodusta doesn’t need recognition to do what’s right—he simply shows up. Whether it’s helping a fellow nurse move, offering a ride, or easing the transition to life in the U.S., Mark lives out the Filipino tradition of bayanihan—community support and togetherness.
Behind his service lies sacrifice. Mark’s wife and four children remain in the Philippines, and he recently missed the birth of his son. Yet, he continues to give selflessly, driven by love, purpose, and the dream of building a brighter future for his family.
“He creates a sense of home for others—even when he’s far from his own,” said one colleague.
- From: Koronadal, Philippines
- PH Experience: 5 years hospital RN, 7 years ambulance RN
- U.S. Placement: Valley Hospital, Spokane, WA
- Family: In the Philippines
Gritty Nurse of the Year
Honoring the Intersection of Heart, Skill, and Community
Awarded to: Jill Satinitigan
Jill Satinitigan’s journey began with a deep commitment to nursing—a testament to her passion. That dedication propelled her through Grit Academy, where she earned “Best in Simulation” honors. But it’s her generosity beyond the hospital that sets her apart.
When Jill arrived in the U.S., she made sure others felt welcome, filling her home with extra bedding, cookware, and a spirit of belonging. Her care for others mirrors her approach with patients: warm, attentive, and driven by a deep desire to serve.
“Without Jill and her family, my transition would’ve been so much harder,” said one fellow nurse.
- From: Cebu, Philippines
- PH Experience: 2 years hospital RN
- U.S. Placement: Deaconess Hospital, Spokane, WA
- Family: Here with husband Yeoj, son Xyron Christoff (10), and daughter Xyraine Christelle (6)
About IGH & Grit Academy
Grit Academy is a state-of-the-art training center in the Philippines developed by Insight Global to bridge global nursing talent with U.S. healthcare systems. Every nurse honored this year completed its rigorous curriculum, combining clinical excellence with character, grit, and a commitment to others.
A Celebration of Heart, Grit, and Global Impact
Insight Global is honored to spotlight these incredible individuals—not only for the care they deliver but for the strength, resilience, and compassion they bring to their communities. These award recipients don’t just care for patients—they uplift entire teams and embody what it means to Be the Light.
by Julia Koslowsky 
by Patrick Glynn