Can you tell us about yourself and your journey into pharmacy?

My name is Tali Piokole. I am a pharmacist, a mother, and a proud Papua New Guinean woman passionate about improving healthcare access in our communities. My journey into pharmacy started with a simple desire to help people. Over time, I realised that pharmacy is one of the most accessible points of healthcare for many people in our country. Pharmacists are often the first people patients come to for advice, treatment, and reassurance.

Through years of working in the profession, I developed a deeper appreciation for the role pharmacists play in saving lives and guiding patients. This inspired me to step beyond employment and build something of my own. Today, I am grateful to run my own pharmacy and wellness services, where I can directly serve my community and contribute to strengthening healthcare services in Papua New Guinea.

What motivated you to become a pharmacy owner?

My motivation came from a strong belief that pharmacists can do more than simply dispense medicines. we can lead, innovate, and create solutions for our communities. I wanted to create a locally owned pharmacy that reflects care, trust, and accessibility.

Starting my own pharmacy was not just about business; it was about creating a space where people feel comfortable seeking health advice and support. It was also about creating opportunities for others, especially young professionals, to grow within the healthcare sector.

As a woman from Papua New Guinea, it is very important to me that we continue to build and support locally owned healthcare businesses that understand the needs of our people.

What challenges have you experienced as a woman in pharmacy leadership and business?

Like many women in leadership, balancing family responsibilities while building a business has been one of the biggest challenges. Being a mother and a business owner requires constant balance, resilience, and sacrifice.

In the early stages, there were also moments where people questioned whether a woman could successfully lead and grow a healthcare business. However, those moments only strengthened my determination. Over time, I learned that confidence, consistency, and hard work speak louder than doubt.

Every challenge has been a lesson that helped me grow not only as a pharmacist, but also as a leader.

Why is it important to support women in pharmacy and healthcare leadership?

Women play an incredible role in healthcare, yet many hesitate to step into leadership or business because they doubt their own abilities. Supporting women in pharmacy leadership is important because representation matters. When young women see other women leading pharmacies, clinics, and healthcare organisations, they begin to believe that they can do the same.

Empowering women in healthcare ultimately strengthens the entire health system because it brings diverse perspectives, compassion, and innovation into leadership.

What advice would you give to young women pharmacists who want to pursue leadership or business opportunities in pharmacy?

My advice is simple: never underestimate yourself. Many of us enter pharmacy with big dreams but sometimes limit ourselves because we are unsure of our capabilities.

Be brave enough to explore opportunities beyond traditional roles. Whether it is leadership, research, policy, or business, the pharmacy profession has many pathways. Work hard, stay committed to learning, and always remember the purpose of our profession, to serve people and improve lives.

Most importantly, believe that your voice, your ideas, and your leadership matter.