Enliven are excited to share that Bini Mathew, Clinical Nurse Manager at Brightwater Home and Willard Home in Palmerston North, has been selected as one of five finalists for the 2026 Nurse of the Year!
This is wonderful recognition of Bini’s dedication, compassion, and outstanding leadership in nursing. We are truly fortunate that our residents in Manawatu experience her leadership and manaakitanga every day.
Bini’s work consistently embodies our organisational values:
Mikaela Shannon, Clinical Director at Enliven, says she is proud of Bini and grateful for the positive effect she has on residents, colleagues, and our community.
“It is incredibly rewarding to see our CNM recognised as one of the five leading professionals. This achievement reflects not only her clinical excellence, but also her commitment to leadership, innovation, and improving outcomes for those we serve. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition, Bini.”
Bini places each resident’s identity, history, and cultural values at the centre of every care decision.
Mikaela adds: “Bini’s leadership growth is evident in how she translates insight into action. She has moved beyond individual clinical practice to shaping systems and processes that embed cultural safety and high-quality care across the organisation.
“By coaching staff in real time, modelling culturally safe practice, and embedding structured frameworks into everyday care, she has developed a workforce that is more confident, capable, and culturally competent. The measurable outcomes of her leadership are seen in stronger whānau engagement, enhanced staff capability, and a care environment that reflects both compassion and equity in practice.”
Whatever the outcome on Friday 24 April, Bini's impact speaks for itself. We are so proud of her.