"These awards showcase the care, commitment, and professionalism of community pharmacy in the ACT, from students at the beginning of their careers through to experienced community pharmacists, and owners of community pharmacies highlighting their evolving role in keeping Canberrans healthy," Guild ACT Branch President, Simon Blacker said.
"The winners share the same goals – to provide outstanding healthcare when and where patients choose to access it through a local community pharmacy.
"The award winners are making an extraordinary contribution to their local communities," Mr Blacker said. "From early next year, we will have more than 15 community pharmacists who will be qualified as full scope pharmacists and ready to provide even more services to patients."
Gold Partner of The National Pharmacy Awards, Symbion’s General Manager Pharmacy, Andrew Crawley said the company was proud to partner with the Guild and shine a spotlight on those delivering the highest care for their communities.
“Symbion congratulates all the award winners for their richly deserved recognition and thank them for their contribution and dedication to improving healthcare across the ACT.
“The role of pharmacists in modern healthcare cannot be underestimated, and each winner embodies the dedicated service, expertise, innovation and knowledge that are fundamental to the future of the industry and Australian healthcare,” Mr Crawley said.
The ACT winners will progress to the national final of the National Pharmacy Awards announced at the Australasian Pharmacy Professional (APP) Conference in March 2027.
The Community Pharmacy of the Year Award is supported by Symbion; Community Pharmacist of the Year by Sandoz; Community Pharmacy Assistant of the Year by AFT Pharmaceuticals; Intern Pharmacist of the Year by MIMS; and Student Pharmacist of the Year by API.
Information About the Winners
ACT Community Pharmacy of the Year: TerryWhite Chemmart Compounding Ainslie
TerryWhite Chemmart Compounding Ainslie is recognised for its long-standing commitment to innovation, patient care and community service. As the first pharmacy to introduce complex compounding services to the ACT, the pharmacy has continued to evolve, embracing new technology, expanded scope services and innovative models of care while remaining firmly connected to the local community. The pharmacy's commitment to supporting patients extends well beyond its walls, from home vaccination visits to community outreach and personalised healthcare services.
ACT Community Pharmacist of the Year: Shareef Ali
Shareef Ali is recognised for his unwavering commitment to improving patient outcomes and expanding access to care across the ACT and surrounding regions. Through Home Medicines Reviews, aged care services and community pharmacy practice, he supports patients wherever they are. His ability to overcome language and cultural barriers through Arabic language counselling, combined with his passion for mentoring future pharmacists and pursuing further clinical training, has made him a respected leader within the profession.
ACT Community Pharmacy Assistant of the Year: Lisa Boniface
With a career spanning more than four decades and two countries, Lisa Boniface is recognised for her dedication to community pharmacy and outstanding customer care. Known for her warmth, professionalism and genuine compassion, Lisa has become a trusted face for generations of patients. She is also a valued mentor within her pharmacy, providing guidance and support to colleagues while continuing to embrace new learning opportunities herself.
ACT Intern Pharmacist of the Year: Ragasudha Nutulapati
Ragasudha Nutulapati is recognised for the positive impact she has had on patients and colleagues during her internship year. After arriving in Australia as an international student, she quickly adapted to local practice and established herself as a trusted member of her community. Her clinical confidence, approachable nature and commitment to delivering holistic healthcare have helped build strong relationships with patients and contributed to outstanding feedback within her pharmacy.
ACT Student Pharmacist of the Year: Summah Holden
Summah Holden is recognised for her leadership, advocacy and commitment to improving cultural safety within the pharmacy profession. Through her work with pharmacy student organisations and Indigenous pharmacy initiatives, she has helped raise the visibility of First Nations perspectives in pharmacy education and practice. Alongside her academic achievements, she has worked to create opportunities for students while promoting pharmacy careers in regional and rural communities.