NACCHO is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pharmacist Scholarship, delivered in partnership with Sanofi Australia. This scholarship is designed to support the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacists, helping reduce financial barriers, increase representation in the workforce, and create culturally safe care pathways for communities.
The 2025 scholarship recipients are:
- Dean Webber
- Isaac Burgoyne
- James Sowter
- Zoe Forest
- Heidi Robinson
These outstanding students were selected for their commitment to their studies and their strong ambition to improve community health outcomes as future pharmacy leaders.
Dr Dawn Casey, Deputy CEO of NACCHO, congratulated this year’s recipients: “These inspiring students are not just the future of pharmacy; they are the future of culturally responsive healthcare in this country. At NACCHO, we are committed to fostering the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacists who will play a vital role in improving health equity and strengthening care in our communities. Congratulations to Isaac, Heidi, Zoe, James and Dean.”
The scholarship initiative, now in its fourth year, began in 2022 with support for two students and has since grown to fund five students annually. The program will continue through 2025, underscoring Sanofi’s ongoing commitment to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health leadership.
Liz Selby, Country Lead at Sanofi, added:
“Representation in healthcare is fundamental to achieving true health equity. By supporting more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pharmacists, NACCHO is not only diversifying the profession but ensuring culturally appropriate care reaches all communities. Sanofi is proud to continue our partnership with NACCHO, building pathways for the next generation of Indigenous healthcare leaders. Bravo Issac, Heidi, Zoe, James and Dean!”
Selection panel member, Chastina Heck a proud Nywaigi Mamu Bidjara woman and clinical pharmacist:
“Congratulations to all recipients and thank you for sharing your personal stories about the value this scholarship brings to both your study and home lives. I’m thrilled to be playing a small part in NACCHO’s Sanofi Student Scholarship again this year and the legacy that is created by supporting our next generation of pharmacists.”
Selection panel member Professor Faye McMillan AM FPS, a proud Wiradjuri Yinaa woman:
“Congratulations to the NACCHO Sanofi Scholarship recipients! I am excited to see how your education contributes to your passion and dedication to Indigenous Health and where your journey takes you. I acknowledge the ongoing relationship between NACCHO and Sanofi, which has enabled the continuation of these scholarships. I look forward to seeing this commitment to education and the pharmaceutical industry, and the important role it plays in Indigenous Health and Wellbeing, for generations to come.”
Among the more than 36,000 registered pharmacists in the country, fewer than 140 identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander. NACCHO is committed to developing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander workforce, and these scholarships are an important part of that aspiration.
Quotes from 2025 Scholarship Recipients:
Dean Webber (QUT):
“As an Aboriginal person, I feel incredibly grateful to receive this scholarship. It’s a big step toward my goal of becoming a pharmacist who can return to the community and support rural and remote mob with culturally safe care. Thank you to NACCHO for backing the next generation of Indigenous health professionals.”
Isaac Burgoyne (University of Sydney):
“This scholarship made a tremendous impact on my studies in my first year, and I am grateful to be fortunate enough to be a recipient again. It’s allowing me to make the most of my studies so that I can become the best possible pharmacist I can be and positively impact my community.”
James Sowter (Yorta Yorta):
“I am incredibly appreciative of both NACCHO and Sanofi for receiving this scholarship. It is an incredible honour to be recognised and supported in such a generous way. As a Yorta Yorta man, this scholarship means more than just financial assistance, it is an acknowledgement of my identity, community and the path I walk.”
Zoe Forest:
“The financial burden of education is something many students have to suffer with. Receiving this scholarship is an amazing opportunity and something I appreciate immensely. The privilege to be fully invested in my education has true value that will allow me to flourish in my future career as a pharmacist.”
