Mia Avram’s smile said it all the day she it was announced she would take over Sebastian Harper as President of the National Australian Pharmacy Students’ Association (NAPSA). Mia told Australasian Pharmacy stepping into the national role felt like the culmination of several years involvement across almost every part NAPSA.“I’ve been involved in NAPSA for the past three years across almost every area of the Association, so stepping into the role of National President feels like the culmination of that journey,” Mia said.
A strong legacy
“I’m incredibly grateful to our branches for placing their confidence in me to lead the association over the next year.”
Mia said outgoing President Sebastian Harper leaves a strong legacy.
“Sebastian leaves NAPSA in a much stronger position than he found it, having helped shape a clear focus on long‑term sustainability and impact through initiatives like the establishment of the NAPSA Future Fund, while also spearheading the association’s advocacy efforts and strengthening its voice across the profession.”
Looking ahead, Mia said her priority is building on NAPSA’s recent momentum.
“NAPSA has built incredible momentum over recent years, and my focus is on continuing that trajectory by doing more for our members and strengthening our role as the peak body for pharmacy students as our profession continues to rapidly evolve.”
Sebastian leaves NAPSA in a much stronger position than he found it, having helped shape a clear focus on long-term sustainability and impact through initiatives like the establishment of the NAPSA Future Fund, while also spearheading the association’s advocacy efforts and strengthening its voice across the profession.
A strong legacy
“I’m incredibly grateful to our branches for placing their confidence in me to lead the association over the next year.”
Mia said outgoing President Sebastian Harper leaves a strong legacy.
“Sebastian leaves NAPSA in a much stronger position than he found it, having helped shape a clear focus on long‑term sustainability and impact through initiatives like the establishment of the NAPSA Future Fund, while also spearheading the association’s advocacy efforts and strengthening its voice across the profession.”
Looking ahead, Mia said her priority is building on NAPSA’s recent momentum.
“NAPSA has built incredible momentum over recent years, and my focus is on continuing that trajectory by doing more for our members and strengthening our role as the peak body for pharmacy students as our profession continues to rapidly evolve.”
Vital role
The PGA has congratulated Mia while also paying tribute to Sebastian for his strong leadership and enduring contribution to the future of community pharmacy.
PGA National Vice President, Simon Blacker, said NAPSA plays a vital role in shaping the future workforce of community pharmacy and ensuring the next generation of pharmacists are equipped to meet the growing healthcare needs of people in Australia.
“On behalf of the Pharmacy Guild, I congratulate the incoming NAPSA President and look forward to working closely together to support pharmacy students as they transition into practice,” Simon said.
“NAPSA is an important partner in building a strong, sustainable pipeline of future community pharmacists professionals who will be at the frontline of accessible, trusted healthcare in communities across Australia.”.
Lasting impact
Simon also acknowledged Sebastian’s significant achievements, highlighting his leadership in advancing key initiatives that will have a lasting impact on the profession.
“Sebastian has been a passionate and effective advocate for pharmacy students. His work to establish the NAPSA Future Fund will ensure the funding for NAPSA is predictable and sustainable.
“Under his leadership, NAPSA has continued to grow its membership and engagement, reflecting the increasing number of students choosing a career in pharmacy and recognising the vital role community pharmacy plays in primary healthcare.”
Advocacy on placements
Simon said Sebastian’s advocacy on ‘placement poverty’ and the progress made towards securing fair payment for placements had been particularly important.
“Ensuring students are appropriately supported during their training placements, is critical to maintaining a viable and attractive career pathway.
“NAPSA’s work contribute directly to a stronger workforce and ultimately better health outcomes for patients.”
The PGA said it looks forward to continuing its strong partnership with NAPSA under new leadership.
NAPSA has built incredible momentum over recent years, and my focus is on continuing that trajectory by doing more for our members and strengthening our role as the peak body for pharmacy students as our profession continues to rapidly evolve.
