Presidents Shape NUSPS But How Has NUSPS Shaped Them? Past Presidents Reminisce and Reflect
If there is one voice that represents the core student population in the Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, it is none other than the National University of Singapore Pharmaceutical Society (NUSPS).
The work of NUSPS is crucial. NUSPS deepens the bonds within the Pharmily community by catering to the wide variety of needs and interests of the student body. As the bridge between students and Departmental staff, NUSPS strengthens mutual cooperation through the active engagement of events led by both parties. Furthermore, by seeking to enhance its reputational standing both locally and internationally, the NUSPS committee aims to unlock valuable opportunities for students.
NUSPS’ vision in empowering each and every student with a proud sense of belonging and identity to the Pharmily comes full circle in our past presidents: in their effort to serve the community, they found their lifelong belonging and purpose. The transformations. The friendships. The life lessons. There is so much more that can be said about the profound impact NUSPS has made on the lives of countless students. As NUSPS celebrates its monumental 65th anniversary, its past presidents look back and reflect on their own journeys. While their paths may differ, one thing remains certain: they wouldn’t trade their experience for anything else in the world. Here are the distinct facets of growth reflected by our past presidents:
NUSPS’ past presidents making impacts in their respective domains.
Associate Professor Chui Wai Keung gained global visibility and influence through professional societies and the World Health Organisation while Dr Lim Siew Woon emphasised teamwork, advocacy, and humility in partnerships.
Mr How Ti Hwei and Prof Eric Chan Chun Yong highlighted how NUSPS nurtured leadership and personal development beyond the classroom – learning to collaborate, overcome challenges, and embrace growth.
Ms Sylvia Shiou Wen Sweeney described leadership as service and inspiration, turning her NUSPS experience into a commitment to community healthcare in Canada whereas Dr Ng Tat Ming learned the power of teamwork and self-agency, applying it to clinical innovation.
Mr Tan Wei Zhe Edwin carried forward a spirit of modernisation and courage to challenge tradition while Dr Ong Kheng Yong credited NUSPS for career direction and mentorship.
Mr Chia Ming Tjong found meaning in connection and holding himself to higher standards whereas Ms Vivian Chin led through trust, built strong relationships, and held a shared determination to make positive change happen.
Mr Ong Wei Siong reflected on practical skills—budgeting, stakeholder management, and prioritisation—that continue to shape his professional success. Mr Jerald Tan enriched his journey far beyond the classroom, providing a lifelong community that continues to champion his professional growth. Finally, Ms Valerie Wang Yi En redefined leadership as empowerment and foresight, guiding her team while paving the way for future successors.
Across decades, their stories converge on shared themes: leadership, collaboration, innovation, and lifelong learning. NUSPS emerges not just as a student society but as a crucible for shaping Pharmily members who lead with purpose, adaptability, and compassion—locally and globally. Here are our past presidents’ heartfelt advice and well-wishes for the future leaders of NUSPS.
As NUSPS transitions into its next phase, the call for the 66th President begins. Experience has taught us that background matters far less than a genuine heart to serve. Because where the heart is, meaningful change naturally follows. We look forward to welcoming a leader who will carry this legacy forward and inspire the next generation of NUSPS.
Article by Valerie Wang Yi En, 65th NUSPS President (Y4 Pharmacy).
Share this article:
Stay connected with NUS Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences!
Receive PharmConnect Newsletters & announcements by NUS Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.