In Episode 9 of ETNAtalks, we are honoured to welcome Dr Katalin Papp, nurse educator, mentor, and founding member of the European Transcultural Nursing Association (ETNA), from the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Debrecen.

With warmth, wisdom, and decades of experience, Dr Papp reflects on her journey into transcultural nursing — from the early days of ETNA’s founding in 2005 to helping embed cultural competence into nursing curricula in Hungary and across Europe. At a time when transcultural nursing was still an unfamiliar concept in her home country, she played a pivotal role in integrating it into bachelor programmes and inspiring colleagues to do the same.

Throughout the conversation, Dr Papp returns to two powerful guiding principles: compassion and dignity. For her, transcultural nursing is not simply a subject to be taught — it is something to be experienced. Through storytelling, role-play, case studies, and reflective dialogue, she encourages students to move beyond theory and into meaningful human connection.

One particularly moving example shared in this episode highlights how cultural expectations around family care deeply shaped a student’s understanding of ageing and independence in Europe. It is a reminder that cultural competence is not only about knowledge — it is about perspective, humility, and openness.

Dr Papp also speaks candidly about preparing students for the realities of practice:
– The importance of modelling positive professional behaviour
– Using both verbal and non-verbal communication with sensitivity
– Encouraging “win–win” thinking in complex intercultural situations
– And crucially, fostering compassion while helping students avoid burnout

As she beautifully summarises: “Let them feel from a handshake that you want good — and that you are for good too.”

This episode is both a reflection on ETNA’s 20-year journey and a celebration of the educators who quietly shape the future of culturally competent care across Europe and beyond.

Whether you are a nurse, educator, student, or healthcare leader, Episode 9 offers thoughtful insights into the evolving landscape of transcultural nursing — and a powerful reminder that cultural sensitivity begins with human connection.

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation.