Image: Moiz Lalani, CP3, 1976
Mr. Lalani comes from a family of pharmacists and immigrated to Canada in 1974 as an international pharmacist. Upon his arrival, he enrolled in third and fourth year pharmacy courses at UBC to qualify for licensing in Canada. Since then, he has been a community pharmacist, successful entrepreneur, and leader in the pharmacy profession.
What accomplishments are you most proud of?
Some of the highlights of my career include being the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012 for distinguished service to the profession by the British Columbia Pharmacy Association. I was also a representative for all Shoppers Drug Mart stores in British Columbia through the BC Peers program from 2005 to 2010. In addition, I am grateful to be able to give back and engage in philanthropy as giving is deeply rooted in my community and principles.
What UBC moment are you still talking about?
My interactions with everyone at UBC during my time there were memorable but most of all, I remember my in-depth conversations with Dr. Frank Abbot during that time.
How have you given back to the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at UBC?
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to support a number of important Faculty initiatives, including naming a room in the building – the Moiz Lalani Seminar Room; providing sponsorship for the PharmD leadership elective; and contributing towards simulation stethoscopes, a teaching technology that will help train pharmacy students in a wider range of physical assessment skills.
Why do you give back to the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at UBC?
Being part of the CP3 program at UBC helped me get started as a pharmacist and my start as a business owner. I am grateful to UBC because it opened many doors that led to my success in business and life.
Who has been the greatest influence in your life or career?
In my personal life and professional life, my father was a significant influence. At UBC, Dr. Abbott was someone who influenced me greatly.
How do you think we can inspire the next generation of pharmacy professionals?
The profession is evolving and becoming more sophisticated because the focus is shifting from dispensing to professional counselling, medication adherence and offering comprehensive patient centered services. Being a pharmacist offers an opportunity to help human beings become healthy and create better societies, which is extremely rewarding. There is a tremendous opportunity for the growth of the profession and future pharmacists can help champion that change.