Highlight your Career Progression. In addition to your degree in pharmacy, have you obtained any certifications, or are you currently pursuing any that you would like to mention?
I aspire to be a Pharmaceutical Scientist. After two years of working in the clinical sector, I discovered the significant gap in the accessibility and availability of high-precision medicines for Africans. Before medications are approved, they undergo several clinical trials; however, these trials often overlook the various genetic mutations present among Africans. This oversight, along with the need for drugs addressing neglected tropical and infectious diseases, and the fact that the continent bears a disproportionate burden of diseases globally, has motivated me to switch to drug research.
I have been proactive in obtaining relevant certifications since my fourth year in pharmacy school, where I began taking courses to improve my academic writing skills. After completing my degree, I pursued additional courses in project management tailored towards clinical trials, drug discovery, development, and commercialisation. I also completed a Postgraduate Diploma (PgD) in Science Communication. More certifications are on the horizon.
What are you most passionate about in your Pharmacy practice?
I appreciate the diversity within the field of pharmacy practice, which necessitates constant evolution among pharmacists.
What do you love about being a Pharmacist?
The pharmacy profession allows me to solve problems and make a meaningful impact. Regardless of the specific path one chooses within the field, pharmacists have the opportunity to address health issues and experience a sense of fulfilment. Your contributions are valued and felt wherever you are.
What do you consider the greatest achievement in your career as a pharmacist thus far? How has this achievement impacted your professional journey?
If I had to choose just one highlight, it would be becoming the President of the Early Career Pharmaceutical Group (ECPG) of the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP). For context, FIP is a global, non-governmental organization representing pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists, and pharmacy educators worldwide. The ECPG is a section of FIP dedicated to early career professionals around the globe.
This role has broadened my perspective, helped me develop my soft skills, and allowed me to advocate for the interests of early career professionals and youth in general. It has been and continues to be, a rewarding experience.
What has been your most challenging moment in the profession and what valuable lessons did you learn from it?
My most challenging moment was transitioning from clinical pharmacy to research pharmacy. For a long time, I knew I wanted to be a pharmaceutical scientist in the industrial sector. However, finding someone to guide me through this transition was quite challenging. I had to reach out to professionals abroad, outside of my immediate environment, to seek guidance. While their support was invaluable, this experience made me realise the importance of mentorship for early-career pharmacists and professionals in Africa.
This realisation led me to co-found an NGO focused on mentoring early career professionals and students. Despite still being on my journey, I am actively mentoring youths. We do not need to be at the pinnacle of our careers to guide and mentor others.
What keeps you going?
I am driven by the zeal to see a better healthcare system. I have a purpose to achieve, and my generation is relying on me to fulfil this mission.
In addition to being a Pharmacist, what else do you enjoy doing?
When I am not working as a pharmacist, I enjoy reading books, travelling, and learning new things. I have recently taken up art and photography.
What can you say to the young Pharmacist?
To every young pharmacist out there, you are a gem and a force to be reckoned with. Never settle for less—not just in terms of pay, but also in terms of your professional growth. As I mentioned earlier, the profession is constantly evolving, and you need to evolve with it. Aspire to become a better version of yourself in your career path.
I encourage anyone reading this to take courses in any field that interests them. Take responsibility for your education, as these are the investments we make in ourselves that will always remain with us.
As young pharmacists, we have a crucial role to play in championing a better healthcare sector, so always show up and give your best. This message is a reminder to myself as well. While striving for excellence, remember to stay healthy and maintain a work-life balance.
I am rooting for you!