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Mia Shinkfield - Student Pharmacist of the Year National Winner

8 May 2026

The Guild

Tasmania’s Student Pharmacist of the Year, Mia Shinkfield, proves that pharmacy isn’t just about perfect grades it’s about people, persistence, and purpose.

Diagnosed with a specific learning disorder in her first year, Mia faced challenges that could have stopped her in her tracks. Instead, she learnt to advocate for herself, redefine success, and lean into what makes community pharmacy special: connecting with patients.

Mia’s leadership journey spans multiple levels of the profession. Over three years with the Tasmanian Association of Pharmacy Students (TAPS), she progressed from Social Subcommittee member to President, strengthening connections between students, alumni, and the wider profession. Nationally, she has held key roles with NAPSA, including Social Events Chair for the 2024 Congress and her current position as Alumni Chair, where she revitalised mentorship programs and championed inclusive, culturally safe support for students.

Her advice to students: “You don’t need to fit a mould to thrive in pharmacy. Focus on empathy, communication, and being genuinely curious about your patients those skills matter just as much as marks.”

From leading pharmacy student organisations to championing inclusive mentorship, Mia shows that community pharmacy is where leadership, advocacy, and real‑world impact come together one patient at a time.

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Page last updated on: 25 August 2026
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