INSPIRxE AY26/27 Networking Session: A New Horizon
12 September marked the start of the 6th run of INSPIRxE with an opening networking session that brought together more than 60 students, staff, and alumni from the Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. The event kicked off another year of meaningful mentorship, bringing total participation to over 90 students and alumni.
INSPIRxE 26/27 kicks off the Opening Session with over 60 students and alumni in attendance.
Prof Giorgia Pastorin, Head of the Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, welcomed mentees and mentors alike with a warm welcome speech, where she showed her appreciation to the alumni mentors for their dedication and service to the next generation of pharmacy professionals.
Prof Giorgia reminds us that each mentor offers us unique insights, just like a crystal ball.
The address led smoothly to the next section, as participants were prompted to share about life beyond work and studies. Light-hearted conversations sparked and flowed between mentors and mentees at their respective tables, reminding us to take some time to enjoy life outside of work.
After some light-hearted fun, the event focused on facilitating connection between mentors and mentees. Five thematic zones were set up to reflect the variety of roles in the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare sector:
- People First: Stories from the Frontline
- Trust at Every Step
- From Curiosity to Creation
- Making Healthcare Reach Further
- From Insight to Impact
Mentees cycled through three zone rotations, choosing areas that aligned with their career goals. This structure allowed students to explore diverse career pathways while gaining firsthand insights from alumni established in their fields.
To make the session more engaging, participants received blind boxes containing conversation prompts, which facilitated questions and ensured every mentee had a chance to speak. The programme wrapped up with mentees presenting their main takeaways, which were summarised below.
These mindful reflections were followed by a buffet lunch, which enabled further informal networking and discussion.
Mentors and mentees connecting over lunch to keep the conversation going.
The organising team extends our deepest gratitude to the alumni mentors for giving their time and expertise. We also thank the students for proactively investing in their personal and professional development . Over the next nine months, we hope that the mentorship groups maintain regular dialogue and build lasting relationships. We look forward to seeing mentors continuing to equip students with practical insights to succeed in their future careers.
Article by INSPIRxE AY26/27 Committee –
Goh Siong Jean (Y3 Pharmacy) and Muhammad Zunnur Iman (Y3 Pharmacy).
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