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From Zimbabwe to Colorado: A Journey of Leadership, Service, and Transformative Change in Nursing

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By: Mavis Mesi, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, RN, President
Mavis Mesi, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, RN, President
Mavis Mesi, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, RN, President

As we stand on the threshold of 2026, nursing is at a pivotal moment. The challenges we face—health disparities, workforce shortages, and evolving patient needs—demand bold leadership and unwavering commitment. This is more than a profession; it is a calling to serve, innovate, and lead change. My journey from Zimbabwe to Colorado reflects this truth: when we embrace purpose and courage, we can transform lives and elevate communities.

My Personal and Professional Mission

I strive to live a life of service, compassion, humility, and continuous personal growth. I believe in the power of authenticity and empathy to foster meaningful relationships and professional connections. My commitment is to live with purpose, stay true to my values, and embrace challenges as I navigate life’s journey.

My Leadership Journey

I was born and raised in Zimbabwe, Africa, and came to the United States as a migrant nurse after earning a Diploma in Nursing in the early 1990s. Driven by a desire to deepen my knowledge, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis in 2000. In 2007, I graduated from the University of Colorado with a Master of Science in Nursing Leadership, followed by a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Nursing Leadership in 2021.

My most recent achievement, in 2025, was becoming board-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I am grateful for the many opportunities to serve as a nurse—a role that calls for courage, empathy, and unwavering commitment to the nursing profession.

Nursing has taught me that leadership is not just about guiding teams; it is about serving with skill and heart—uplifting others, advocating for the voiceless, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity.

Self-Reflection

As we look ahead to 2026, I encourage everyone to seek opportunities to serve. Nursing offers powerful and meaningful opportunities at every level.

Remember: Opportunity never waits for readiness. Nursing is not just a career—it is a calling to serve, uplift others, and strengthen the health of our communities. Keep learning. Be the colleague you wish to work alongside. Be courageous in driving change-your actions have impact, and your voice matters. 

Call to Action: Step Forward. Speak Up. Lead Change.

Our call to action is focused on advocating for the most vulnerable who depend on us. We must stand together as Colorado nurses to address health disparities and support initiatives that ensure safe, high-quality care in our communities.

As nurses, we are uniquely positioned to drive change. According to the Colorado Nursing Center of Excellence, our state has approximately 76,000 nurses, including 10,000 Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs).

Our workforce is diverse, including:

  • Critical care nurses
  • Medical-surgical nurses
  • Home Health care nurses
  • School nurses
  • Operating room/perioperative nurses
  • Emergency department nurses
  • Behavioral health/psychiatric nurses
  • Forensic/sexual assault nurse examiners
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Nurse educators
  • Clinical nurse specialists
  • Certified registered nurse anesthetists

Nursing excellence, therefore, requires revolution. True excellence in how we care for our patients and the communities we serve demands a willingness to challenge old systems and reimagine what is possible refusing to settle for “average care” when our patients deserve exceptional care.

Get Involved Today! 

Take the next steps and become a member of one of the Colorado Nurses Association special interest groups, your expertise matters. Visit the Get Involved tab at https://coloradonurses.org.

I am proud of your dedication to health care and the excellent work you do. Together, we have opportunities to advance nursing and elevate the communities we serve. 


Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about caring for those in your charge.”

Content of this article has been developed in collaboration with the referenced State Nursing Association.

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