INTERNATIONAL Women's Day (IWD) is celebrated tomorrow, and Pharmacy Daily asked some pharmacy leaders to share their thoughts on what IWD means to them personally and for women in pharmacy more generally.
Amanda Seeto, CEO Australasian College of Pharmacy
I am in a role that is exciting, demanding, I am always learning something new, and like running a pharmacy, there is lots to do.
It is not everyone's cup of tea, and IWD gives us a chance to celebrate and recognise our freedom to choose career, family, or both.
Annabel Crabb's statement that women "ought to work as if one did not have children, while raising one's children as if one did not have a job" rings true for many, and I love that a career in pharmacy enables us to find that balance.
I would not be where I am now had it not been for the many times someone gave me a confidence pep talk, suggest I throw my hat in the ring for a role, or put my name forward to represent pharmacy.
So on IWD I am reminded to pay forward the generosity of encouragement that I received, and push the next generation of leaders, both men and women, out of their comfort zones to realise their potential.
Bronwyn Clark, CEO Australian Pharmacy Council
Much of what I do at APC would not be possible without strong connections and true collaboration.
As I reflect on the #AccelerateAction theme for IWD 2025, I am reminded of the incredible people I have had the privilege of working alongside.
I recently farewelled Associate Professor Sue Kirsa, our outgoing Board Chair.
Sue has been a trusted and invaluable mentor, someone I have learned so much from, and a driving force behind innovation in pharmacy across Australia.
This baton has now been passed to another remarkable female leader, Professor Sarah Roberts-Thompson, an experienced visionary in the pharmacy and education sector.
As we dive into preparations for our annual IPE Colloquium event, I find myself reflecting on the invaluable contributions of the Program Committee, whose insights and dedication shape this event's success each year.
Professors Kirstie Galbraith and Rhonda Clifford are not only my colleagues but also friends - women who bring their own unique strengths and perspectives to the work that we do.
I feel incredibly grateful to work in a sector that not only attracts a high proportion of women but also fosters inspiring, determined individuals committed to making meaningful change, both in the world and for the patients they serve.
Anna Barwick, CEO PharmOnline and 2025 OAM recipient
Having women in pharmacy leadership is essential, and while gender balance in pharmacy organisations has increased significantly since 2018, with women's representation in leadership positions now at 58% (up from 47% in 2018), some have not yet achieved 50% - and we still have some all-male branch committee presidents.
It suggests that there are still barriers preventing women from stepping up to take the mantle of leading our profession, and open discussion is needed to overcome them, with support and encouragement from allies.
Gender diversity means good business, good management and good governance, leading to better outcomes for all, and it is time for a shift in mindset to see balanced representation as the pragmatic choice it is.
Krysti-Lee Patterson, MD Meitheal Services and Your Pharmacy Career Podcast host
While we've made progress in seeing more women in leadership roles within pharmacy, there's still a gap when it comes to ownership - both in terms of pharmacies and entrepreneurship.
Since starting my own businesses, I've realised the vast opportunities available, but I've also noticed that the strongest support often comes from men or women outside of my immediate professional circle.
Unfortunately, within our industry, some women hesitate to uplift others, seeing them as competition rather than allies in professional growth.
We need to actively shift this mindset - true progress means bringing others along, not holding them back.
We also have work to do in ensuring that all women feel included in pharmacy.
Those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, as well as women who are neurodivergent, often face additional barriers, including stigma and exclusion.
The conversations I have in the podcast remind us that success in pharmacy isn't just about individual achievements but about creating a profession where all women feel empowered to thrive.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 07 Mar 25
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