This Father’s Day, Sigma Healthcare is delighted to share the reflections of three of our pharmacists who are actively balancing their working careers and fatherhood.

Happy Father’s Day to all those who teach, lead and inspire by living with purpose – your dedication and commitment is appreciated. For those who find this time of year challenging, please remember to be kind to yourself, prioritise your wellbeing and reach out for support, if needed.

Andrew Georgiou – Practice Support Pharmacist, Chemist Warehouse

Andrew Georgiou, an avid camping and offroad enthusiast and father of a rambunctious 5-year-old who keeps him on his toes, has worked in pharmacy for over 20 years, with the last 2 as a Practice Support Pharmacist. In the coming weeks, he will be transitioning to Aged Care Services Manager.

Andrew was initially drawn to pharmacy as it combines science, healthcare and community service and provides him with the opportunity to make a real, daily difference providing accessible advice or reassurance to patients, often at their most vulnerable times. Working full-time, five days a week at Head Office and part-time, alternating Saturdays, at Chemist Warehouse Thomastown means Andrew needs to be intentional to balance work and family life.

The support his workplace provides when it comes to family commitments, providing flexibility in scheduling, has made it much easier for Andrew to balance being present for his family while still contributing professionally. At work, he stays organised and efficient, while at home, he makes a concerted effort to put his phone away and focus on being present.

He said, “Quality time, even in small amounts, helps keep the balance right.”

“I love the joy and energy my son brings every day. Watching him grow, learn, and see the world in his unique way is something I wouldn’t trade for anything. Fatherhood is exhausting at times. But it’s also the most fun I’ve ever had.”

For young Dads starting out as a pharmacist, Andrew’s advice is to try not to be perfect at everything.

“Pharmacy can be demanding, and fatherhood even more so. Lean on your support systems, set boundaries, and remember that being present matters more than being flawless,” Andrew recommends.

The values of kindness and integrity are key values Andrew would like to pass on to his son – to grow up knowing that treating people well and doing the right thing will always serve him both in his personal life and future career.

Mina Wanis – Strategic Operations Manager

Pharmacy drew Mina Wanis, Sigma’s Strategic Operations Manager, in because it sits right where science, healthcare and people meet. To Mina, being a pharmacist has always been about trust, community and connection – being there when people need you.

As a proud dad to a cheeky 2-year-old boy, Mina and his wife are getting ready to welcome a baby girl in November.

Mina said, “Life is definitely full at the moment – juggling work, fatherhood, and preparing for a newborn – but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I work full-time, five days a week and have been in pharmacy for almost two decades.”

While he started out as a student stacking shelves, these days Mina focuses on improving systems, strategy, and operations across some of the most exciting pharmacy franchise brands in the industry.

The biggest gift Mina said that his workplace gives him is flexibility.

“Healthcare doesn’t stop, and it can be relentless at times, but being able to work in ways that support family life makes all the difference. For me, that looks like doing daycare drop-offs, being around for appointments, or just being home in the evenings for bath time and bedtime stories,” Mina reflected.

While they sound like little things, those moments are everything as a dad and Mina is grateful his leaders and colleagues know he’ll get the work done and that the flexibility afforded to him comes from a place of trust.

For Mina, balance is about being deliberate. At work, he is focused on getting results that matter. At home, he tries to put the phone down and give his son his full attention. He’s learnt that it is less about splitting time evenly and more about being present for the moments that really count. Moments like helping someone understand their medicines, giving reassurance, or just being a familiar face in the community.

As a dad, his son’s laughter, curiosity and the way he sees the world have taught him to slow down and appreciate the little things again.

“Being a dad is humbling – it keeps you grounded and reminds you of what really matters. And now with a daughter on the way, I’m excited to experience it all over again – hopefully with a bit less wresting this time!” Mina shared.

For young pharmacists who are dads, Mina suggests asking for help, leaning on your team and your family, and setting boundaries.

“Most importantly, don’t hesitate to ask for time or flexibility if you need it, because kids grow up really, really fast. Your children won’t remember the rosters or reports – they’ll remember that you were there,” he said.

Mina wants to pass on kindness, resilience and curiosity to his children. Kindness in how they treat people, resilience to get back up when life doesn’t go to plan, and curiosity to keep learning and exploring. As a Ted Lasso fan, one of his favourite quotes is “Be curious, not judgmental.”

Klein Wang – Ethical Merchandise Manager

Klein Wang, Sigma Ethical Merchandise Manager and a pharmacist for the past 15 years, is the proud father of 8-year-old Zac and 6-year-old Anna.

Klein’s desire to help people in a meaningful, everyday way and his keen interest in health was his reason for choosing pharmacy.

“Being a pharmacist means being a trusted source of advice and support, whether in a community setting or behind the scenes. I value the responsibility and the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives,” Klein commented.

One of the most rewarding parts of pharmacy for Klein has been being present when people truly need help and being able to support them through different stages of their life.

Klein reflected “It’s a privilege to witness patients on their health journey – from managing long-term conditions to celebrating small wins – and knowing I played a part in that gives real meaning to the work.”

Flexibility with work-from-home options has helped Klein manage family life alongside his career – this balance has made a big difference in how he navigates fatherhood and work. It means he can be present for his kids when needed whether it’s school drop-offs or being around when they’re unwell – while still staying productive and engaged in his role. He is intentional with his time outside of work – taking every opportunity to get his young family outdoors, to slow down and reconnect with each other and nature.

What Klein loves the most about being a dad is watching his kids grow and discovering the world through their eyes. They bring so much joy and energy to his life, and being able to guide and support them as they learn and explore is incredibly rewarding for him. Klein wants his kids to pursue what they truly love and have the courage to follow their passions, even if the path isn’t always easy.

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