Celebrating International Women’s Day with Women in Pharma®
As we approach International Women’s Day 2025, this year’s theme highlights the importance of equity and inclusion in fostering innovation and progress. ISPE’s Women in Pharma® embodies these principles by creating a platform for connection, growth, and empowerment. Hear what these Women in Pharma® members have to say about the value of Women in Pharma on International Women’s Day.
Why Do You Feel Women in Pharma® is Important?
Mei (Mae) Ping Lee, Quality Assurance Manager at Winwa Medical Sendirian Berhad and ISPE International Women in Pharma Steering Committee Member: ISPE’s Women in Pharma provides a venue to exchange ideas and embrace diversity of thoughts in deepening our understanding and fulfilling a more holistic decision-making and support role. It provides a platform for the growth and development of interpersonal/soft skills to complement the technical skills of future leaders, continually sharpening the skills of the current workforce managing a multi-generational workforce landscape.
Janette Buechler, Executive Editor of Marketing and Sales at Pharmatech Associates and ISPE International Women in Pharma Steering Committee Co-Chair: Women in Pharma offers professionals in pharmaceutical manufacturing resources to further their careers by opening doors. These doors may be in the form of a network introduction, guidance in navigating challenges, sharing examples of advocacy, and being a community of support. The Women in Pharma community at ISPE is accessible to anyone who desires professional development to achieve, be inspired, and move forward in their career.
Yolanda McLean, Senior Director, Quality Strategy and Operations at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals and ISPE International Women in Pharma Steering Committee Member: Women in Pharma is vital because it provides a platform to sponsor and amplify diverse voices, foster mentorship, and create opportunities for collaboration and growth. It’s not just about empowering women; it’s about driving innovation and progress across the industry by ensuring equitable representation and inclusion at every level.
Miriam Kremer-van der Kamp, Business Development and Sales at XILS BV and ISPE International Women in Pharma Steering Committee Member: Women in Pharma is vital because it actively promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion within the pharmaceutical industry. By fostering a space where diverse voices are valued and amplified, Women in Pharma helps address systemic barriers to equity, such as limited access to leadership roles, mentorship, and professional development. Through its focus on equity, Women in Pharma not only empowers women but also drives a more inclusive, progressive, and successful industry.
How Has Women in Pharma® Impacted Your Career or Personal Outlook?
Mae Ping Lee: I am immensely grateful to connect and work alongside a diverse background of professionals within our field—internationally, regionally, and locally. The exchange of thoughts and collaboration we’ve had has enhanced my perspectives and enriched my outlook.
Janette Buechler: My career in pharma began as an Executive Administrative Assistant. Through my association with Women in Pharma, I was not only inspired by the success I saw in others but also by how they managed to navigate similar obstacles. Volunteering with ISPE drew upon my leadership skills in ways I could not have imagined, leading me to strive for more in my job and achieve whatever came next. Eventually, I became Head of Marketing and served on the leadership team.
Yolanda McLean: Being part of Women in Pharma has provided me with an incredible network of support and empowerment, helping me build confidence and grow both personally and professionally. It’s also given me the opportunity to connect with a global community of women who are shaping the future of a global industry, fostering collaboration and shared success across borders.
Miriam Kremer-van der Kamp: Women in Pharma has had a profound impact on both my career and personal perspective. Professionally, it has allowed me to expand my network, gain mentorship from inspiring leaders, and share experiences with peers facing similar challenges. On a personal level, Women in Pharma has underscored the importance of lifting others as we grow, inspiring me to actively support and advocate for equity in my own environment.
Why Should Someone Join Women in Pharma®?
Mae Ping Lee: For senior professionals, Women in Pharma allows us to give back to the industry—playing a pivotal role in guiding and mentoring future leaders while cheering for each other. For young professionals, emerging leaders, and students, Women in Pharma offers an out-of-classroom experience to build a network, accelerate learning through senior members’ experiences, and collaborate. Women in Pharma provides unlimited learning opportunities as long as we continually seek growth.
Janette Buechler: Traditional education gets you in the door, but the soft skills necessary to succeed at higher levels can be learned by following examples. It’s the network for people in our industry. Why wouldn’t you join?
Yolanda McLean: Joining Women in Pharma means stepping into a space where challenges turn into opportunities and ideas transform into impact. It’s not just a network—it’s a dynamic community where you can learn from inspiring peers, share your own journey, and gain tools to navigate and thrive in a rapidly evolving global industry. If you’re ready to elevate your career and be part of something bigger, this is the place to start.
Miriam Kremer-van der Kamp: Joining Women in Pharma provides access to a supportive and empowering community that fosters growth, mentorship, and leadership development. It enables members to connect with like-minded individuals, learn from role models, and collectively address barriers to equity and success. Beyond individual benefits, being part of Women in Pharma contributes to a larger movement driving meaningful change and inclusivity within the pharmaceutical industry.
How Has Your Chapter or Affiliate Accelerated Action for Equity and Female Empowerment?
Mae Ping Lee: The ISPE Malaysia Affiliate’s Women in Pharma program was established in 2022. Our inaugural one-day event featured a leadership journey forum with prominent women leaders, experience sharing, and roundtable conversations. Since then, we’ve steadfastly provided a platform for career growth, empowering women alongside allies. Our 2025 programs will continue championing these core values for our members and by our members.
Janette Buechler: The ISPE San Francisco Chapter has been on the leading edge of female empowerment in the pharma industry. In the early days of Women in Pharma, the West Coast was the first to host combined events with the ISPE Greater Los Angeles Chapter and the ISPE San Diego Chapter. We also pioneered discussions on allyship before it was widely understood. It’s exciting to see regions like the Middle East join Women in Pharma, furthering our global reach.
Yolanda McLean: The ISPE Boston Chapter, embedded in the heart of a global biotech hub, leverages its unique position to champion equity and female empowerment in the pharma industry. With a robust calendar of events, we bring together diverse voices to share knowledge, build connections, and inspire action. By tapping into our region’s resources, we create meaningful opportunities for women to grow, lead, and drive change.
Miriam Kremer-van der Kamp: The ISPE D/A/CH Affiliate has taken tangible steps to drive equity and empowerment. Through leadership workshops, networking events, and candid discussions, we create opportunities for women to enhance their skills, gain visibility, and share experiences. By advocating for systemic change, we are building a more inclusive environment where women thrive, lead, and make a lasting impact.
Join Women in Pharma® Today!
ISPE’s Women in Pharma® continues to lead the charge for equity, empowerment, and innovation in the pharmaceutical industry. Whether professionals are seeking mentorship, career growth, or a supportive network, Women in Pharma is here to support the journey.
