NPA diversifies board with appointment of 3 Women

The decision to appoint these women aligns with the NPA's new values-led approach, emphasising equality, inclusion, and diversity within its leadership structure.

In a move towards greater diversity and inclusivity, the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has welcomed three accomplished women to its board of key members. Aisling O’Brien, Sukhi Basra, and Sehar Shahid-who is the youngest member- have joined the board, marking a significant step in the organisation's commitment to equality and representation.

The announcement, made on the occasion of the International Women’s Day, by chief executive, Paul Rees MBE via X reflects the organisation's dedication to celebrating and empowering women in the pharmacy profession.

Sukhi Basra, who joined the board as member since last April, adds a valuable dimension to the NPA. With her role as a Community Pharmacy KCW committee member and her experience in clinical pharmacy spanning over 25 years, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a distinctive viewpoint.

Her unwavering commitment to championing community pharmacy and empowering female pharmacists resonates deeply with the organisation's core values and its forward-looking vision.

With her background in leadership and entrepreneurial roles within the pharmacy profession, Sehar Shahid offers invaluable insights and a passion for driving positive change. A qualified independent pharmacist prescriber, consultant, and the director of 24 HR Pharmacy, her commitment to fostering inclusion and empowering future generations of female leaders exemplifies the NPA's ethos of inspiring and supporting women in pharmacy.

Whereas, the latest member, Aisling O’Brien, director of O'Brien’s chemists Ltd, brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of community pharmacy to the board. With a career spanning 25 years and a proven track record of leadership within the pharmaceutical sector, Aisling's appointment reinforces the NPA's commitment to supporting women in leadership roles.

Speaking on the appointments, NPA Chair Nick Kaye expressed his delight in welcoming Aisling to the board, highlighting her expertise and dedication to the sector: “We are delighted to welcome Aisling to the NPA board. She brings with her bags of relevant experience and a passion for community pharmacy. I know she will be an effective advocate for the NPA and the sector at large.”

With these appointments, the NPA reinforces its position as a leading advocate for diversity, inclusion, and excellence within the pharmacy sector, setting a precedent for other organisations to follow suit in embracing representative leadership.