As 2025 begins, so does the National Australian Pharmacy Students’ Association (NAPSA) Congress.
Once again, the Guild is the Platinum Sponsor and is proud to support the future of community pharmacy. This event brings together hundreds of pharmacy students and interns from Australia and New Zealand for a week-long series of educational sessions, workshops, social gatherings, networking opportunities, a trade exhibition, and more. This exciting event takes place at the University of Queensland in Brisbane. It is a great opportunity for future pharmacists to prepare for 2025 and beyond, equipping them for their future careers.
The event began with a keynote speech by the Guild’s Executive Director, Gerard Benedet, titled "Decisions that Define Pharmacy." This session delved into recent issues including vape reforms, the Doctor of Pharmacy pathway, and Full Scope evolution.
Guild Executive Director Gerard Benedet delivered a keynote session titled 'Decisions that define pharmacy.
Chris Owen, a third-generation pharmacist and Queensland Branch President, presented "The Evolving Role of Community Pharmacy" and shared his vision of the opportunities available to students in community pharmacy.
Key workshops and group sessions included:
- Transitioning from University to the Workforce: This workshop aims to equip students to navigate challenges and seize opportunities early in their careers. It covered a range of topics, including diverse career pathways, crucial workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, and leadership, as well as setting career goals, effective networking, and leveraging professional relationships.
- Building Pro Prescribers: Ready to step into a prescriber’s shoes? This workshop provided insights into the steps to become a prescriber, the support available, and practical tips to make this goal attainable.
- Owning Your Future: This session highlighted the professional and personal rewards that come with pharmacy ownership, as well as practical advice on how to set yourself up for success.
The Guild hosted a stall at the Congress trade show, and the event concluded with one of its famed highlights, the NAPSA Congress Gala Ball.
Over 250 students gathered at the University of Queensland in Brisbane for the 2025 congress.
