With a nod to a certain fictional British superspy, eight suave and debonair pharmacy students are set to compete for the title of Mr. Pharmacy as the Alberta Pharmacy Students' Association (APSA) kicks off its month-long fundraising drive in support of Movember Canada.
The mock male beauty pageant is the culmination of fundraising efforts by University of Alberta pharmacy "Mo bros and sistas" as the students raise money and awareness for prostate and testicular cancer research, as well as men's mental health.
The 2015 edition, complete with the 007 theme, requires the participants to model their best beach wear and show off their talents. Along with the fun competitions, the students must also demonstrate the professionalism and empathy skills they'll need as future pharmacists.
According to Aliaksandr Savin, second-year pharmacy student and event organizer, one of the goals behind Mr. Pharmacy is "to highlight the important impact pharmacists can make in promoting health advocacy and awareness."
Alberta pharmacists have the broadest scope of practice in North America and are the most accessible health-care providers. The importance of the profession is not lost on pharmacy students.
"Mr. Pharmacy is not only about raising money during Movember," says Savin. "It's also a great opportunity to raise awareness for men's health and showcase the vital role we play in the health-care system and patient care."
Now in its sixth year, Mr. Pharmacy is an opportunity for pharmacy students, alumni and faculty to come together in a fun evening for an important cause. And it's not just an APSA event; Savin says all U of A students and the public are welcome.
"It's a great opportunity to showcase our profession in a fun way, and we hope students from across campus will support the event," says Savin. "Participants will need to be creative but also draw from what they've learned in class to demonstrate their professionalism and empathy."
In the past five years, the students raised over $50,000. This year's goal is set at $20,000.
Mr. Pharmacy takes place Nov. 28, 2015, at 6 p.m. in the Myer Horowitz Theatre.
Find out more and purchase tickets.
Donate to the University of Alberta Pharmacy Students Movember team.