Five outstanding students have been selected as recipients of the 2025 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pharmacist Scholarship.
Delivered by the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) in partnership with Sanofi Australia, the scholarship is designed to support the next generation of Indigenous pharmacists, reduce financial barriers, increase representation in the workforce, and create culturally safe care pathways for communities.
NACCHO said this year's scholarship recipients in Dean Webber, Isaac Burgoyne, James Sowter, Zoe Frost and Heidi Robinson, were selected "for their commitment to their studies and their strong ambition to improve community health outcomes as future pharmacy leaders".
Mr Webber, who studies at the Queensland University of Technology, said he was incredibly grateful to receive the scholarship.
"It's a big step toward my goal of becoming a pharmacist who can return to the community and support rural and remote mob with culturally safe care," Mr Webber said.
"Thank you to NACCHO for backing the next generation of Indigenous health professionals."
Now in its fourth year, the scholarship initiative began in 2022 with support for two students and has since grown to fund five students annually.
Yorta Yorta man James Sowter said he was incredibly appreciative of both NACCHO and Sanofi after receiving the scholarship.
"It is an incredible honour to be recognised and supported in such a generous way," he said.
"As a Yorta Yorta man, this scholarship means more than just financial assistance, it is an acknowledgement of my identity, community and the path I walk."
Recipient Zoe Forest said the scholarship is an amazing opportunity and something she appreciates immensely.
"The privilege to be fully invested in my education has true value that will allow me to flourish in my future career as a pharmacist," Ms Forest said.
NACCHO deputy chief executive officer, Dr Dawn Casey, said this year's recipients are the future of culturally responsive healthcare in Australia.
At NACCHO, we are committed to fostering the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacists who will play a vital role in improving health equity and strengthening care in our communities," Dr Casey said.
"Congratulations to Isaac, Heidi, Zoe, James and Dean."
NACCHO said of the more than 36,000 registered pharmacists in the country, fewer than 140 identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander.
Selection panel member and Wiradjuri Yinaa woman, Professor Faye McMillan, congratulated this year's recipients.
"I am excited to see how your education contributes to your passion and dedication to Indigenous Health and where your journey takes you," Professor McMillan said.
"I look forward to seeing this commitment to education and the pharmaceutical industry, and the important role it plays in Indigenous Health and Wellbeing, for generations to come."
Sanofi country lead, Liz Selby said the company is proud to continue their partnership with NACCHO, building pathways for the next generation of Indigenous healthcare leaders.
"Representation in healthcare is fundamental to achieving true health equity," Ms Selby said.
"By supporting more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacists, NACCHO is not only diversifying the profession but ensuring culturally appropriate care reaches all communities."
NACCHO said the program will continue through 2025, underscoring Sanofi's ongoing commitment to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health leadership.
