Sunju Gohel is the Superintendent Pharmacist at ‘Mr Medicine Online Pharmacy’. He was born and raised in Leicester, and graduated from De Montfort University in 2013 with a Master’s degree in Pharmacy. After qualifying, Sunju went on to work as a locum community pharmacist, working at various pharmacies across the East Midlands. He has since started his own online pharmacy business, where they provide healthcare and pharmaceutical services nationally – with a key focus on the local community.
1. Which place, or city or country do you most feel at home in?
Leicester. It truly is a wonderful city which has a unique melting pot of diverse cultures. From the world famous Diwali celebrations, to the historic Leicester City Premiership title win – the city’s name is globally known and I feel proud to call it home.
2. What are your proudest achievements?
Completing my ‘pre registration’ year (a year in pharmacy practice after university). It is a demanding year that requires balancing full time work alongside full time academic work.
3. What inspires you?
I have always been inspired by these words from Albert Einstein, “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity”. As it is a reminder that when you face a problem or complications, there is a chance to find a way to resolve it and learn from the experience.
4. Biggest obstacle in your career?
The current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is by far the biggest obstacle I have encountered in my career as a pharmacist. I am continually engaging with concerned members of the local community and reassuring them in this period of uncertainty. The pandemic has also resulted in logistical issues which have affected the supply chains of vital medicines.
5. Who has been biggest influence on your career to date?
My parents. They have always encouraged and pushed me to do my best and to pursue my dreams. I am thankful of the values and work ethic they have instilled in me. I hope to make them proud with my accomplishments.
6. What is the best aspect of your current role?
What I like most about my role is being in a position to make a difference in people’s lives by having a positive impact on their health and wellbeing.
7. And the worst?
I currently enjoy my role very much, so I would not say there is a “worst aspect”. However, running your own business certainly has its challenges.
8. What are your long term goals?
My long term goal is to expand the products and services my pharmacy offers. I would like to offer a more tailored and personalised approach to the health and wellbeing of the local community we serve. I also hope to add a retail community pharmacy to my business portfolio in the near future.
9. If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
I would remove university tuition fees. Student debt is continuing to grow and is reaching an unsustainable level which is placing a heavy burden on young people. I believe that education should be free for all and not a commodity to be sold.
10. If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why
My choice would have to Mahatma Gandhi. His infinite wisdom along with his simple, non-materialistic way of living would be the ideal remedy for life on a desert island.
