Becoming an elected member of the PDA Union’s Southeast Regional Committee for Community Pharmacists marked a turning point in my professional journey. At first, I viewed the role as an opportunity to represent my fellow community pharmacists and support colleagues locally, but it soon grew into a transformative experience that expanded my understanding of the profession and strengthened my leadership abilities.
Our committee is made up of pharmacists from a wide range of sectors from community, hospital, locum, academia and GP practice. This diversity gave me a much broader appreciation of the pharmacy landscape. Engaging in discussions with colleagues who approach patient care from different angles helped me see how interconnected our work truly is. Listening to varied perspectives sharpened my ability to think critically, communicate effectively and consider the bigger picture when advocating for change.
The PDA provided valuable training opportunities that enhanced both my confidence and my competence. These experiences gave me practical skills to support pharmacists while deepening my understanding of workplace issues and professional policy. They also encouraged me to reflect on my personal leadership style teaching me how to empower others, remain objective and lead with empathy and purpose.
When I became Chair of the Southeast Regional Committee, I learned how to coordinate and guide meetings with fairness and focus, while ensuring every voice from the various sectors was heard and respected. The Chair role challenged me to balance differing priorities, maintain constructive dialogue, and foster collaboration across professional boundaries. It also strengthened my time management, decision‑making and strategic thinking skills. Leading this diverse group reinforced the value of inclusion and teamwork in achieving meaningful outcomes for members and the wider profession.
For over a year, I deputised for our regional National Executive Committee member as she was on maternity leave, which further broadened my perspective. It provided a glimpse into the structures that underpin the Union’s advocacy work and allowed me to contribute to discussions that shape strategy and policy at a UK‑wide level. This experience deepened my understanding of governance and gave me confidence to articulate regional insights within a national context.
Equally valuable has been the network of support and friendship that developed through these roles. Being part of a union that truly values member voices offers both professional reassurance and a sense of belonging. The PDA Union’s strong community of pharmacists has been a source of guidance, mentorship, and shared learning reminding me that leadership is strengthened by collaboration and mutual support.
Reflecting on this journey, I can see how serving as a regional committee member, committee chair, attending the national executive and participating in PDA education has shaped me into a more confident, reflective, and well‑rounded professional. It has deepened my commitment to advocating for pharmacists across all sectors, reinforced the importance of listening with empathy, and inspired me to continue leading through service, integrity and collective action.
I encourage all pharmacists to get involved with their union, supporting your colleagues could turn out to be some of the best career development you ever get.
By community pharmacist, Chair of the PDA’s Southeast Regional Committee, and co-opted member of the PDA BAME and Ability Networks, Nav Bhogal
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