Information for National Nursing Associations preparing to apply to the ODENNA LatAm project
This page is designed to help National Nursing Associations understand whether the ODENNA LatAm project is the right fit for their organization and leadership team, and to prepare for the application process when it opens.
Here you’ll find information about who can apply, what participation involves, what is required, and how the application process works, so your association can prepare with confidence.
Organizational Development of National Nursing Associations (ODENNA) is a flagship leadership and organizational development programme of the International Council of Nurses (ICN).
ODENNA LatAm is the Latin America regional project of the ODENNA programme, designed specifically for Spanish-speaking ICN member National Nursing Associations in the Americas and the Caribbean.
Building on the experience and results of ODENNA Africa, the ODENNA LatAm project supports associations through a structured, team-based, and applied approach that strengthens organizational systems and leadership capability together.
ODENNA LatAm is a practical, leadership-in-action project. Participating associations and leaders can expect meaningful outcomes at both the organizational and individual level.
For the Association
Stronger governance and organizational systems
Greater clarity around strategic priorities and direction
Improved ability to plan, deliver, and sustain initiatives
Increased confidence engaging partners, stakeholders, and funders
For the Association Leaders
Increased leadership confidence and capability
Practical skills applied directly within the NNA
Experience leading organizational change in real time
Strong peer connections across the region
ODENNA LatAm supports organizational growth and leadership development together over the full course of the project.
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When applications open, they will be accepted for a four-week period, allowing associations time to prepare and submit their application.
ODENNA LatAm has limited spaces available. While ICN is not able to accept all applying associations at this time, all applications will be carefully reviewed and evaluated.
Applications to the ODENNA LatAm project are accepted only from National Nursing Associations (NNAs) that:
Are member associations of ICN
Are based in Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America
Are able to participate through a team-based approach
Are prepared to engage actively throughout the full project period
The ODENNA LatAm project does not accept applications from:
Individual nurses
Individuals applying independently
Organizations that are not National Nursing Associations

ODENNA LatAm is a team-based nursing leadership project delivered under the ODENNA programme.
Each applying association is asked to identify a core team of 4–6 members who will participate together throughout the project.
Teams should reflect a diverse mix of skills and expertise relevant to the association’s work.
Team members should:
Work directly within the National Nursing Association
Hold leadership, operational, or decision-making roles
Have a strong understanding of nursing priorities
Actively support nurses in their current role
Executive-level commitment is required.
As part of the application, associations must submit:
A formal executive-level endorsement letter confirming leadership approval for the team’s participation in the ODENNA LatAm project
Individual commitment statements from each proposed team member, confirming their engagement and availability
The ODENNA LatAm project runs for approximately 14 months, beginning with a proposed kickoff in mid-April.

ODENNA LatAm is delivered through a hybrid model and includes:
Guided learning and structured engagement opportunities
Regional networking and peer exchange
Organizational and individual leadership development activities
Association-led projects focused on real organizational priorities
Participation includes both individual and team-based deliverables and supports leadership development through applied, real-world work.
Step 1: Request the Application
Submit a short request form to initiate the application process and identify a point person for your association.
Step 2: Complete the Digital Application
The point person will receive a personalized application link by email.
This link is unique to your association and cannot be shared.
The digital application:
Guides you step by step through the questions
Allows document uploads
Can be saved and returned to before submission
The application should be completed by someone with access to organizational information who can coordinate input from the team.
Step 3: Submit for Review
Submitted applications are reviewed by an evaluation committee.
All associations will be notified of the outcome, whether selected or not, by 10 April 2026
The digital application will request information that may include:
Current organizational priorities and challenges
Strategic goals and focus areas
Motivation for participating in the ODENNA LatAm project
Alignment with leadership and organizational development objectives
Names, roles, and contact details of proposed team members
A formal executive-level endorsement letter
Individual team member commitment statements
Associations are not expected to have everything fully developed. The application is designed to provide a transparent view of your current context and readiness.
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