Barry Power 8T7 BScPhm, 9T5 PharmD

Editor-in-Chief, Canadian Pharmacists Association (Retired)

Barry is being recognized with the Hall of Distinction Award for his profound and enduring influence on Canadian pharmacy. Known for his clarity, balanced perspective, and genuine care for others, he is a leader who consistently champions collective success over personal acclaim. His impact is reflected in the many pharmacists he has mentored—professionals who credit his insight, encouragement, and deep understanding of the healthcare system as pivotal to their growth. Dr. Power’s humility, expertise, and transformative mentorship make him a truly deserving recipient of this honour.

Words from Barry:

"Receiving the Hall of Distinction Award is an incredible honour. The fact that it was a former student, Lisa McCarthy, who nominated me makes it extra special. I’ve always tried to make sure students I’ve worked with had a good experience as it is the introduction to a wonderful profession. Being inducted into the Hall of Distinction is a wonderful way to cap my career in a profession that has always allowed me to find new and interesting avenues to apply my pharmacy education." 

Anne Milochik 7T1 BScPhm

President, J A Milochik Consulting

Anne is being recognized with the Alumni Service Award for her lifelong commitment to advancing pharmacy and supporting her community. She is a dedicated mentor to students interested in the pharmaceutical industry and a role model for volunteer leadership across healthcare and the arts. As an active alumna, she has contributed through more than five years in the PharmaSEE mentorship program and is an active participant across alumni programming, offering input on pharmacy’s hottest topics and providing feedback to continuing to improve our offerings. Her leadership across the pharmacy and healthcare sectors, along with her advocacy for the arts through the Mississauga Symphony Orchestra, reflects her belief in using professional expertise to strengthen the profession and the broader community.

Words from Anne:

"Of course I’m grateful for the recognition, but I think a more important question and answer is, What volunteering with the Faculty and with Students in particular means to me. Our training in Pharmacy at the Faculty at U of T has provided us with a wonderful career – where we can help patients with their health care needs and work with other health care professionals. In this manner, we can make a difference in both treatment and prevention with our specialized knowledge that rounds out multi-faceted care. Having had this foundation of training to prepare us for giving care, I believe we have an obligation to give back to the place that gave us our start. Providing financial support comes easily as working in this profession remunerates us very well. Working with students as a mentor or instructor is particularly rewarding as they light up when we impart some knowledge or experience that they may not have thought of before and which may be particularly relevant to them. Any mentoring relationship should be two ways – so the mentor also learns from the protégé and stays current and relevant and energized." 

Rebecca Yu 9T0 BScPhm

Healthcare & Lifesciences Executive

Rebecca is being recognized for demonstrating the full range of what a pharmacy degree can achieve in the pharmaceutical and innovation sectors. A pioneer in her field, she has led major initiatives across industry, healthcare, and research, and she is equally committed to supporting those who follow through generous mentorship and connection. Her leadership includes service on national and university boards and her appointment to the Government of Canada’s Selection Committee for the Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative, where she helped guide significant federal investment in innovation. Her decision to renew her pharmacist license during the pandemic further reflects her deep commitment to the profession and to public service.

Words from Rebecca:

"Receiving the Leadership in Pharmacy Award is an incredible honour. It means a great deal to me because pharmacy has opened so many doors throughout my career and has continually grounded me in the importance of patient care. I am grateful to the profession and to the colleagues and mentors who have shaped my journey, and I see this recognition as a reminder of the responsibility we all share to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose. I am especially thankful to the Faculty and to my nominators, Susan Drodge and Jennifer Lake, for their support and belief in my work. 

What matters most to me is giving back to the profession that has given me so much. I am passionate about helping the next generation see the breadth of what’s possible in pharmacy—whether through frontline care or through non-traditional pharmacist roles that influence how health care is delivered and improved. Pharmacists have a powerful voice, and it is essential that our perspectives are included wherever decisions about patient care are being made. If this award allows me to inspire even a few others to see their potential and speak up for the profession, that is the greatest honour of all."

Alireza Shalviri 1T2 PhD

Innovation Director, Allergy, Sanofi

Alireza is being recognized for his exceptional leadership in pharmaceutical science, bridging academia and industry to deliver cutting-edge innovation that translates into patient benefit. He has led global innovation pipelines for major brands, developed top-selling products, and directed high-impact research including novel nanoparticle drug delivery systems. Beyond his scientific achievements, he mentors cross-functional teams, fosters excellence, and inspires peers through award-winning contributions, publications, and patents, establishing himself as a true leader in translating science into meaningful impact. 

Words from Alireza coming soon.

Taban Saifi 1T6 PharmD, 2025 MBA (TMU)

Associate Medical Director, Gilead Sciences

Taban Saifi is being recognized as an emerging leader in pharmacy for her exceptional impact on professional development, patient care, and diversity in the pharmaceutical industry. She established pharmacy residency programs at Gilead and Novo Nordisk, personally mentoring numerous students and early career pharmacists. She leads the Medical Affairs Plan of Action for HIV in Canada, supporting underserved populations, and champions diversity and inclusion through her work with Women Leaders in Pharma. Known for her clinical expertise, business acumen, and uplifting mentorship, Taban inspires the next generation of pharmacists to excel and give back.

Words from Taban:

"I am honoured and humbled to receive this year’s Emerging Leader in Pharmacy Award. This recognition reinforces my commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment where professionals can grow with confidence and develop as future leaders. I am deeply grateful for the mentorship I received throughout my studies and career—both in clinical practice and the pharmaceutical industry—which has been instrumental in my growth as a healthcare professional. Inspired by this guidance, I remain dedicated to mentoring the next generation of pharmacists by sharing the knowledge and experiences gained along my journey. Above all, I will continue to champion our collective mission to improve patient outcomes and help build a world where every individual has an equal opportunity to thrive."

Giovanna Schver 2T0 PhD in Pharmaceutical Science

Senior Clinical Evaluator, Health Canada

Giovanna is being recognized as an emerging leader in pharmaceutical science for her exceptional contributions to drug development, regulatory review, and public health. At Health Canada, she has reviewed complex drug submissions, contributed to COVID-19 response efforts, and helped shape regulatory guidelines that expand patient access to innovative therapies. She actively mentors students, collaborates with academic partners, and engages in faculty initiatives, inspiring others to pursue excellence in pharmaceutical science and to contribute meaningfully to the scientific and regulatory community.

Words from Giovanna:

"Receiving the Emerging Leader in Pharmaceutical Sciences award is an incredibly meaningful moment for me. It recognizes not only my dedication to advancing regulatory science, but also my passion for nurturing mentorship within our industry. As an immigrant to Canada, this honour reminds me that with hard work, dedication, and perseverance, we can make a lasting impact and inspire future leaders in pharmaceutical sciences."