A YOUNG student nurse has spoken of her pride after being shortlisted for a top award.

Aisha Hussain from Bury is currently in the third year of her Children's Nursing degree at the University of Salford and due to qualify next month.

The 22-year-old has now also been shortlisted in the Children's Student Nurse of the Year category in the Student Nursing Times Awards 2020.

Ms Hussain said: "I am so delighted to be shortlisted. My mentors, personal tutors and the university itself have provided me with many opportunities to become more active in making positive differences to nursing and caring for children and young people.

"I have had opportunities to be involved in many extra-curricular activities including research projects, campaigns, open days, charity events, educational workshops and in improving student experiences. To be able to commemorate my achievements is a real honour.

"To be shortlisted for the Student Nurse of the Year: Children award is a massive achievement that I am so grateful for.

"I have loved my journey of being a student nurse and want to inspire others from BAME backgrounds to come into nursing."

Organised by magazine for nurses of the same, the Nursing Times Awards and Student Nursing Times Awards annually recognise the achievements of people in the nursing community.

This year's awards are also set to be extra special as 2020 marks the awards' 30th anniversary and the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife.

More than 500 nominations were received for the student awards, across 21 categories, in a record-breaking year.

The finalists will now present to members of the 89-strong panel of esteemed education professionals ahead of the big day at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London, on April 24.

A Nursing Times spokesman said: "Our annual awards brings together the student nursing community to shine a light on the brightest talent making their way into the profession and the organisations that support them.

"The 2020 event will celebrate the achievements of student nurses, educators, universities and organisations in a glittering ceremony."