‘Earth Angel’ Leinster Caregiver of the Year 2025

Juana Tizcareno Duenas, a caregiver described as an ‘earth angel’ who is beloved by her clients, has been crowned Leinster Caregiver of the Year 2025 at a recent ceremony to celebrate 20 years of Dovida providing exceptional care in Ireland.

“It was clear from the nominations that Juana is beloved by her clients and colleagues alike.”

About Juana

Juana, who hails from Mexico and now calls Dublin home, has worked for Dovida for one and a half years. She was nominated for the award by clients and colleagues from Dovida’s Fairview branch. Having won the local office Caregiver of the Year Award, Juana was put forward for the regional and national competition where she scooped the Leinster Caregiver of the Year 2025 Award.

“It’s an amazing feeling,” Juana said. “You never expect to get an award for doing a job you love, as I feel it’s already rewarding to have this job, so to have this recognition, to be seen, is really nice,” she added.

Competition judge, broadcasting legend Mary Kennedy, said it was clear from the nominations that Juana brought joy and positivity to everyone she interacts with. “It was clear from the nominations that Juana is beloved by her clients and colleagues alike. She acts as shining example to some of the new caregivers, mentoring them with the same kindness and compassion she shows her clients,” she said.

“It was the testimonies from clients that really made an impression on me. More than one person described her as an ‘earth angel’, and I believe she even has her own fan club! It’s clear that Juana brings joy and positivity with her wherever she goes and puts her heart and soul into her work. She is a credit to her profession and a very worthy winner indeed,” she added.

“Juana is a caregiver with a big heart and a lot of patience who shows great care for her clients.”

Praise from clients and colleagues

“Juana is just brilliant with my dad; he’s always delighted when he sees her. She’s so kind and patient,” Lisa Bruen, the daughter of Juana’s client Ronnie, said. “The biggest thing for me is the empathy and respect she shows my dad. I can’t thank her enough for keeping him safe and so well looked after in his own home,” she added.  

Juana’s colleagues praised her kindness and patience in helping them when they were new to caregiving. “Juana was one of the first caregivers I met when I was still new, I loved her way of working, her kindness, and her personality. She is a wonderful person,” Andrea Afonso said.

“Juana is a caregiver with a big heart and a lot of patience who shows great care for her clients. She has a wonderful personality and a positive attitude; always offering words of support to those who need them,” Julieta Saucillo Barrios added.

A joy to work with

Miriam Malone, General Manager of Dovida Fairview, said that Juana represents all of the positive attributes of a caregiver. “All of us here are so proud of her for winning this award, that she so richly deserves. Juana works with patience, kindness and consideration for clients and colleagues, she adapts her care for each individual client depending on their needs and preferences. She is a joy to work with,” she said.

“Juana exemplifies what it means to be a Dovida caregiver,” Shane Jennings, CEO of Dovida Ireland, said. “She puts the client at the heart of everything she does, and treats people with kindness, dignity, and respect. I would like to congratulate her on this incredible achievement and thank her for the hugely valuable contribution she makes in the lives of her clients and their families,” he concluded.