Pharmacist Spotlight: Nadia Ahmad, PharmD

Can you tell us a bit about your career and what you do now?

I graduated from the University of the Punjab in Lahore, Pakistan, in 2002, with a degree in pharmacy. Shortly after, I took a decade-long pause to focus on raising my 3 children. When I decided to reenter the workforce, I faced the daunting task of passing the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Equivalency Examination, Test of English as a Foreign Language, and all the licensing exams required for foreign graduates to practice in the US. Being away from the profession for 10 years made it an uphill battle, but it reinforced a powerful truth: with clear goals, unwavering commitment, and perseverance, even the most challenging journeys are possible.

In 2013, I started my career with Walgreens, and over the years I’ve served in various roles within the company. Today, I am a community pharmacist in Pineville, Kentucky, and serve as the district engagement lead, where I focus on fostering passion, collaboration, and engagement among our team members.

My journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of purpose-driven work. It’s a reminder that no matter how long a pause may be or how many hurdles stand in the way, incredible things happen when you lead with heart.

Why is a career in community pharmacy so rewarding and important?

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my job is administering vaccines. The immunization room often becomes a space for the most meaningful conversations. Those few minutes allow me to connect with patients in ways that go beyond their medical needs. I always take a moment to ask about their lives, their health concerns, or simply how they’re feeling. It’s in these moments that trust is built and patients feel truly heard.

Beyond immunizations, I’ve guided countless patients through overwhelming presurgical instructions, breaking down complex details so they feel confident about their next steps. I’ve supported newly diagnosed individuals with diabetes who felt lost and unsure where to begin. These moments may seem small to the outside world, but they define the essence of what we do as community pharmacists.

Then there are the moments that stay with you forever, like helping a 7-year-old girl receive her pneumonia vaccine so her cochlear implant surgery wouldn’t be delayed for months. Being the only pharmacy in a medically underserved area with that vaccine in stock made all the difference. I navigated every override, met every protocol, and when I saw her parents’ relief, I knew: This is why I do what I do.

What does it mean to you to be named the 2024 Community Woman Pharmacist of the Year?

Receiving the 2024 Community Woman Pharmacist of the Year award is an incredible honor, one that humbles me deeply. This recognition is not just a personal achievement; it’s a testament to the dedication of all women pharmacists who work tirelessly to serve their communities.

To me, this award symbolizes resilience, commitment, and the collective efforts of so many who inspire me every day. I accept it on behalf of my peers, who continue to push boundaries and uplift our profession. It’s a reminder of the importance of advocating for our field and ensuring that we continue to evolve to meet the needs of our patients.

As a mother of 2 daughters—one graduating from college this year and the other from high school—I see this as more than just a milestone in my career. It’s proof that dedication, perseverance, and passion can lead to remarkable achievements. I hope this award serves as a beacon of inspiration for my daughters and for the next generation of women pharmacists. I want them to know that success is within reach when they lead with purpose and heart.

But beyond the accolades, what truly matters is the impact we leave behind. It’s not about the titles we earn but about the kindness, care, and compassion we bring to those we serve.

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