Women in Pharma® Editorial: A Year of Remarkable Achievements
As we approach the end of another impactful year, it is a pleasure to reflect on the outstanding achievements and contributions of ISPE’s Women in Pharma community, both regionally and internationally.
This year has been marked by significant milestones, collaborative efforts, and enriching events that have collectively propelled our mission forward. Here’s a recap of the key successes:
Webinars and Special Sessions
Empowering Voices: Creating a More Inclusive Pharmaceutical Industry & Patient Experience
In this impactful webinar, industry leaders and influencers discussed the critical need for diversity and inclusion in pharmaceutical development and healthcare delivery. They explored the root causes of disparities in healthcare access and outcomes, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that drug products reflect the diversity of the populations they serve. The session also highlighted the significance of representation in pharmaceutical leadership and the creation of inclusive work environments to drive innovation and equity in the industry.
Women in GAMP®
I had the honor of moderating an insightful webinar, “Women in GAMP: Empowering Women in Pharmaceutical Compliance.” This webinar showcased the significant contributions of women in fields related to GAMP and explored the unique challenges and opportunities they faced. Attendees gained insights into best practices, career development, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in fostering innovation and excellence in pharmaceutical compliance.
Collaboration with Women for Advanced Therapies
Our collaboration with Women for Advanced Therapies resulted in a virtual panel discussion that highlighted the intersection of gender and racial diversity within the pharmaceutical industry, and how the emphasis on gender and racial diversity allows for improved healthcare across the globe. This partnership brought together thought leaders and professionals of various backgrounds and ages and sparked a meaningful discussion and exchange of knowledge.
Enhanced Collaboration
Connecting Affiliates and Chapters
We strengthened the ties between our Affiliates and Chapters by facilitating direct connections with the Women in Pharma Steering Committee. This initiative aimed to enhance local collaboration and ensure that regional activities are aligned with our global vision. Through these monthly meetings, we’ve had the opportunity to exchange ideas, answer key questions, share successes, and develop resources to better support the efforts of Women in Pharma on the local level.
Mentor ISPE
The Mentor ISPE program continues to thrive, providing mentorship opportunities that empower all members within the pharmaceutical industry. This program has been instrumental in fostering professional growth and development through guidance and support and continues to evolve to better meet the needs of our members.
Conference Events
Facilities of the Future
Women in Pharma started the year strong at the Facilities of the Future conference in January with an all-female executive forum panel. The discussion featured powerful women who shared insights on industry trends, balancing professional and societal pressures, and advancing women’s roles across industry sectors.
Aseptic Conference
The session titled “Winding Path to Success where Titles, Salaries, and Culture Intersect” offered valuable perspectives on career growth and workplace culture.
Europe Annual Conference
The “Leveraging Digitalization on the Path to Healthcare Equality” panel, led by Women in Pharma, focused on evaluating how digitalization can drive healthcare equality. The discussion stressed the importance of equal representation of women in healthcare through clinical trials, drug customization, and technology.
Biotechnology Conference
The “Beyond Boundaries: AI-Driven Efficiency in Modern Workspaces” session encouraged professionals to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) in their daily business and explored how AI could enhance efficiency and work-life balance in dynamic work environments.
Annual Meeting & Expo
“Masked Connections” was a unique networking event sponsored by AstraZeneca. Attendees enjoyed dinner and drinks while wearing Venetian masks, fostering deeper connections in a memorable setting. The Sunday Workshop focused on professional development and included a regulatory panel with experts from across the globe.
Pharma 4.0™ & Annex 1 Conference
The “Pioneering Change: Innovation Across Life Science Sustainability & ESG Excellence” panel will explore strategies for integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into life sciences. The discussion will also address the upcoming EU Legislation Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, which will require detailed disclosure of sustainability practices. It will also highlight the importance of gender equity policies, sustainable procurement, and decarbonization strategies.
Acknowledgements
Thank you to the following for helping us develop and lead programming this year: Geetanjali Abbi, Janette Buechler, Jim Breen, Muriel Campbell, Thomas Carganico, Noella Dallaire, Navneet Dhesi, Deborah Donovan, Norman Goldschmidt, Miriam Kremer-van der Kamp, Marissa Lemus, Maria Löflund, Catherine Lunardi, Carla Lundi, Patricia Martin, Adrian Masson, Yolanda McLean, Katrina Moseley Journey, Christa Myers, Martin Orcoyen, Kate Parsons, Shree Pataskar, Amy Raskopf, Ragini Rathi, Gaelle Saint Louis, Nidhi Shah, Leta Sledge, Tammy Spain, Melody Spradlin, Gaurav Walia, Amy Washco, and Hilal Yamaner.
As we celebrate these accomplishments, we remain committed to our mission of promoting gender diversity and empowering women in the pharmaceutical industry. The successes of this year are a testament to the collective effort and dedication of our members, volunteers, Affiliate and Chapter Leaders, and our International Steering Committee. We look forward to continuing this momentum into the new year, driving positive change, and inspiring the next generation of women leaders in pharma.
