By Winnie Tewendi

On April 4, the Pharmacy Alumni Network celebrated its 1st Anniversary under the theme ‘Breaking the Mold: Exploring Unique and Emerging Career Opportunities in Pharmacy.’ The event, held brought together alumni, faculty, and students, to reflect on the evolving pharmacy profession and to explore new career frontiers.

Prof. Shital Maru, Dean of the School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, while delivering her welcome remarks, commended the alumni for maintaining strong ties with the institution and for creating a platform that promotes innovation and mentorship within the pharmacy field.

Emphasizing on the importance of embracing diversity in career pathways, Dr. Juliet Konje, Vice President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya and an alumna, encouraged pharmacists to look beyond traditional roles and recognize their potential in leadership, research, business, and policy-making. In her keynote address, Dr. Juliet called for a mindset shift among young pharmacists, urging them to innovate and lead within the healthcare sector.

Participants also benefited from an insightful panel discussion featuring accomplished professionals who have ventured into unconventional areas within pharmacy. Dr. Myra Ochieng’, a Radiopharmacist at the Nairobi West Hospital, spoke about her journey into Radiopharmacy, the specialized training involved, and the opportunities and challenges within this niche field. Dr. Cohen Andove, a Medical Sales Representative at Generics Africa Limited, shared insights on how pharmacists can leverage their scientific background in sales and strike a balance between clinical knowledge and strategic business engagement.

Dr. Nikki Soni, a Pharmacovigilance Specialist, discussed current trends in drug safety and regulatory compliance, emphasizing the growing need for pharmacists in pharmacovigilance and strategies to enter the field. Dr. Sharon Odeo, AMR Lead at Ecumenical Pharmaceutical Network, addressed the pharmacist's role in combating antimicrobial resistance and effective approaches to policy advocacy and public awareness. Dr. Nafisa Ghazi, Head of Inpatient Pharmacy at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, spoke on leadership in hospital pharmacy, quality assurance in pharmaceutical care, and evolving roles of clinical pharmacists.

Dr. Brigit Mulwa, Senior Project Associate at Africa Health Business, highlighted how pharmacists can contribute to healthcare consultancy and policy development, encouraging the development of project management and business skills. Dr. Arnold Gitau, In-Charge of Pharmacy Supplies and Commodities at the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH), focused on pharmaceutical supply chain management, challenges faced in public healthcare, and how pharmacists can enhance system efficiency. Dr. Rose Wathoni, Clinical Trial Assistant at IQVIA Middle East and Africa, spoke on the pharmacist's role in clinical research and the ethical considerations associated with clinical trials.

The Pharmacy Alumni Network reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the professional growth of its members and fostering innovation within the pharmacy profession. The 1st Anniversary celebration not only reflected on achievements but also set a forward-looking agenda that inspires current and future pharmacists to break traditional molds and embrace the vast opportunities available in healthcare.