On March 11, 2025, the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) conducted a transformative webinar titled “Exploring Global Career Opportunities for Pharmacists”, offering valuable insights into international pathways and advancements in the pharmacy profession. The event was graced by esteemed professionals and industry leaders, providing Kenyan pharmacists with an in-depth understanding of global career options, licensure requirements, and the evolving role of pharmacists worldwide. Notably, pharmacists in Kenya who attended this session earned 2 CPD points, further emphasizing the significance of continuous professional development in global pharmacy practice.
Opening Remarks by Dr. Ivy Ratemo, CEO, PSK
The webinar commenced with an inspiring speech by Dr. Ivy Ratemo, CEO of PSK, emphasizing the importance of exploring new career avenues. She highlighted how understanding international pharmacy practices can significantly enhance career prospects for Kenyan pharmacists. Dr. Ratemo stressed the need for pharmacists to stay informed about global advancements, prescribing rights, and evolving healthcare models to remain competitive in the profession.
Diaspora Experience: What It Takes – Dr. Antony L. Yiaile
Dr. Antony L. Yiaile, a consultant pharmacist and toxicologist from Kenya, shared his journey of transitioning to an international pharmacy career. He recounted his experience of clearing the KAPS exam with the support and guidance of Elite Expertise, an Australian-based training platform dedicated to helping overseas pharmacists prepare for licensure exams such as the OPRA/KAPS exam (Australia and New Zealand), PEBC (Canada), and PSI (Ireland). Dr. Yiaile emphasized how structured training and mentorship play a crucial role in achieving global career success.
Apart from this, he also highlighted the advantage that Kenyan pharmacists with dual citizenship have in accessing broader career opportunities. He encouraged them to maximize this benefit by exploring international licensure pathways and leveraging their eligibility for multiple work permits. Dr. Yiaile stressed that understanding and utilizing such opportunities can significantly enhance career growth and professional mobility.
Pharmacists’ Roles in Australia: Insights from Mr. Arief Mohammad
Mr. Arief Mohammad, a practicing clinical pharmacist at Northern Health, Australia, Director and Trainer at Elite Expertise, delivered an insightful session on the roles of pharmacists in Australian hospitals and community settings. He elaborated on the responsibilities of pharmacists in patient care, medication management, and the increasing scope of practice, including prescribing rights. Mr. Arief underscored the vast opportunities available for Kenyan pharmacists willing to explore international careers and upskill to meet global standards.
Clinical Pharmacists’ History-Taking Skills: An Application-Based Case Study – Harika Bheemavarapu
Harika Bheemavarapu, Director at Elite Expertise and a clinical pharmacist at Monash Health Hospital, Australia, conducted an engaging session on history-taking skills for clinical pharmacists. Using an application-based case study, she demonstrated how effective history-taking enhances patient care, improves diagnosis accuracy, and strengthens pharmacists’ clinical decision-making abilities. The session resonated with attendees, highlighting how refining these skills can significantly impact their professional development and employability in international healthcare settings.
Interactive Q&A Session
The Q&A session, moderated by Dr. Joe Kamau, Forensic Toxicologist-Pharmacist Specialist at Narok Country Referral Hospital, Technical lead for OPC/Market Test Project and Dr. Hezron Munyakin (Communications Lead, PSK), saw an overwhelming number of questions from pharmacists eager to understand the nuances of global career transitions. Queries ranged from advancements in the field, licensure exam preparation, visa pathways, and job opportunities in different countries to the evolving responsibilities of pharmacists in international healthcare systems. Mr. Arief Mohammad and Mrs. Harika Bheemavarapu provided detailed and practical insights, reinforcing the significance of structured training and professional networking.
Closing Remarks and Future Initiatives
The event concluded with closing remarks that reaffirmed PSK’s commitment to empowering Kenyan pharmacists with global career insights. This initiative was a testament to PSK’s dedication to fostering professional growth and ensuring that Kenyan pharmacists remain at the forefront of international healthcare advancements.
Bridging the Gap: The Role of Elite Expertise
Throughout the webinar, Elite Expertise emerged as a key player in equipping overseas pharmacists with the necessary training and guidance to navigate international licensure processes. With a track record of supporting pharmacists through KAPS/OPRA exam (Australia and New Zealand), PEBC exam (Canada), and PSI exam (Ireland), Elite Expertise continues to be a trusted platform for those aspiring to build successful careers abroad.
For pharmacists looking to explore global career opportunities and need expert guidance, Elite Expertise can be reached via their official website or professional networks.
This webinar marked a significant step in expanding horizons for Kenyan pharmacists, paving the way for international career mobility and professional advancement.