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OUTSTANDING ALUMNI: UBC Grad Praminder S. Gill Reflects On Rewarding Pharmacist Career Upon Top Alumni Honours

December 4, 2023

Program and grad year BSc(Pharm)’80

Pharmacy Career

After graduation, I landed a role at Owl Drugs—where I'd previously completed a clinical rotation. In 1981, I took the reins as the manager at the south Granville location in Vancouver.

Soon after, my journey led me to Canada Safeway as a pharmacist during the integration of pharmacies into their stores. By 1986, I had climbed the ranks to manager, making my mark across various locations. From setting up pharmacies and training staff to mentoring UBC pharmacy students, my responsibilities were diverse and rewarding.

In 2011, I bid farewell to Canada Safeway after a fulfilling tenure. Post-retirement, I embraced locum work at different pharmacies, savoring the profession until my ultimate retirement in 2018. The unexpected twist came in 2020 when I re-registered, driven by a desire to actively contribute during the challenging times of the COVID pandemic.

Accomplishments

One of my proudest accomplishments is serving as a mentor to new graduates and students, fostering a positive and supportive environment. I had the privilege of working alongside exceptional professionals throughout my career. In the mid-80s, amidst the HIV/AIDS epidemic, I collaborated with other health professionals in caring for patients during a time with limited treatment options. Additionally, I successfully maintained a balance between my professional commitments and personal interests in competitive soccer, baseball, and travel.

Biggest influence

The late Anna Paskovic, my first manager after graduating from UBC, stands out as a significant influence in my career. She was an exceptional mentor who instilled in me the importance of detailed patient counseling.

UBC Moments

Reflecting on my time at UBC, I cherish the memories of the pharmacy parties and intramural soccer. Lifelong friendships were forged during this period.

Insights from UBC Experience

Looking back, the significance of the lifelong friendships formed at UBC stands out more prominently now than it did during my time as a student.

Motivation to Give Back

My motivation to contribute to UBC Pharm Sci stems from the exceptional quality of students I encountered as a mentor. Their enthusiasm for embracing changes in the pharmacy field was always inspiring.