Canada is facing a growing demand for pharmacists, yet many internationally trained professionals continue to navigate complex licensing requirements and barriers to entering the workforce. How can the pharmacy industry better support international talent while developing the next generation of leaders? In this episode of Pharmacy Edge, host Max Beairsto welcomes Kenneth Etokakpan, an internationally trained pharmacist from Nigeria and President of Black Pharmacy Professionals Canada (BPPC), for an insightful conversation about the challenges, opportunities, and future of Canadian pharmacy. Kenneth shares his personal journey from Nigeria to Canada, including the realities of navigating provincial licensing requirements, rebuilding professional networks, and finding his place within the Canadian pharmacy community. The conversation explores Canada's pharmacist shortage, the untapped potential of internationally educated professionals, and the need for more accessible and efficient licensing pathways without compromising professional standards. Max and Kenneth also discuss what it means to be a leader in today's pharmacy industry. From mentorship and professional development to building meaningful connections and preventing burnout, Kenneth shares why leadership isn't defined by a job title but by the positive influence we have on others. Looking ahead, they explore the evolving role of independent pharmacies, the opportunities presented by technology and AI, and how pharmacists can continue expanding their contributions to patient care and community healthcare. Whether you're a pharmacy owner, an internationally educated pharmacist, or an emerging leader, this episode offers valuable perspectives on strengthening the profession and shaping the future of pharmacy in Canada. In this episode, we explore The realities of relocating to Canada as an internationally trained pharmacistLicensing challenges and opportunities for meaningful reformCanada's pharmacist shortage and the potential of international talentLeadership beyond titles and why younger pharmacists should embrace itThe importance of mentorship, networking, and communityThe story behind Black Pharmacy Professionals CanadaPreventing burnout through connection and professional supportThe role of digital communities and responsible AI adoptionThe future of independent pharmacies and expanded patient care Episode Chapters00:00 The Reality of Pharmacy Relicensing in Canada 00:47 Welcome and Introduction to Kenneth Etokakpan 02:07 Kenneth's Journey from Nigeria to Canada 04:52 Navigating Canada's Pharmacy Licensing Challenges 06:15 Advice for Internationally Educated Pharmacists 07:58 Pharmacist Shortages and Untapped International Talent 10:27 Improving Licensing Pathways and Financial Support 11:56 Hiring and Supporting International Pharmacists 13:19 Leadership Beyond Job Titles 15:50 What Meaningful Leadership Looks Like in Practice 17:54 Empowering the Next Generation of Pharmacy Leaders 19:31 Building Community and Addressing Burnout 21:39 Digital Communities, Technology, and AI 25:08 The Creation of Black Pharmacy Professionals Canada 28:04 Finding Optimism in the Next Generation 29:56 Kenneth's Five-Year Vision for Canadian Pharmacy 32:40 Pharmacists as Healthcare Problem-Solvers 35:27 Opportunities for Independent Pharmacy Owners 38:08 Final Takeaways and Closing Thoughts About Pharmacy Edge Pharmacy Edge brings together pharmacy owners, industry professionals, and business leaders for conversations about the opportunities and challenges shaping Canadian pharmacy. Hosted by Max Beairsto of EVCOR, the podcast explores pharmacy ownership, business growth, leadership, and the decisions that matter to the future of the profession. Subscribe to Pharmacy Edge on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform for more conversations with the people shaping Canadian pharmacy. Connect with Pharmacy Edge: Website: pharmacyedge.com LinkedIn: @PharmacyEdge Facebook: @PharmacyEdge Connect with Kenneth Etokakpan: LinkedIn: @Kenneth Etokakpan Instagram: @Kennethedy Explore Kenneth Etokakpan's Book Getting The Best Out Of Your Medicines: A Guide To Safely Utilizing And Optimizing One Of Man's Greatest Inventions Discover Kenneth's guide to understanding medications, using them safely, and making informed decisions about your health. Get your copy here: https://a.co/d/06wGmU9I About Black Pharmacy Professionals Canada (BPPC) Black Pharmacy Professionals Canada (BPPC) is dedicated to building a stronger, more connected pharmacy community through mentorship, professional development, and advocacy. The organization provides a supportive space for Black pharmacy professionals to connect, share experiences, develop leadership skills, and navigate opportunities and challenges within the Canadian pharmacy industry. Led by President Kenneth Etokop Pan, BPPC is helping foster greater representation, collaboration, and opportunities for the next generation of pharmacy professionals. Learn more about BPPC: Home
