RCPharm President named Pharmacist of the Year at Black Healthcare Awards
Published: 14 July 2026
President of the Royal College of Pharmacy, Tase Oputu, has been named Pharmacist of the Year at the Black Healthcare Awards 2026 in recognition of her leadership, commitment to tackling health inequalities and contribution to advancing the pharmacy profession.
The award, presented by the Caribbean and African Health Network (CAHN) at a ceremony in London on 4 July, celebrates healthcare professionals making an outstanding impact on patient care, healthcare leadership and community health across the UK. Tase shared the honour with fellow pharmacist Dr Yeyenta Osasu, who is National pharmacy Integration Lead at NHS England.
The Black Healthcare Awards recognise excellence, innovation and leadership among Black healthcare professionals, highlighting individuals whose work is helping to improve outcomes, advance equity and drive positive change across health and social care.
For many years, Tase has been a leading advocate for the profession, championing the vital role pharmacists play in improving access to care, addressing health inequalities and supporting better outcomes for patients and communities.
Tase Oputu, President of the Royal College of Pharmacy, said:
“I am deeply honoured to receive this award and to be recognised alongside so many exceptional healthcare professionals who are making a difference in their communities every day.
“This recognition is not just a personal achievement. It reflects the commitment, talent and innovation of pharmacists across the country. Pharmacy teams play a vital role in tackling health inequalities, improving access to care and supporting better health outcomes for patients.
“The Black Healthcare Awards provide an important opportunity to celebrate the contribution of Black healthcare professionals and to highlight the positive impact we have across health and care. I am proud to stand alongside colleagues who are leading change, inspiring future generations and helping to build a more equitable healthcare system for all.”
The Royal College of Pharmacy also congratulates all those recognised at this year’s awards, including Professor Dame Ijeoma Uchegbu, Professor of Pharmacy at University College London, who received the Lifetime Achievement in Black Health Award for her contribution to healthcare and research alongside Professor Martin Griffiths, Consultant Major Trauma Surgeon.
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