A proud mom and a passionate pharmacist: Nand
Being a full time working mother was a challenge, yet a reward for Nirmala Nand. The 64-year-old pharmacist operates her very own Nand Pharmacies in Fiji and other countries like Sydney in Australia, Tonga and Vanuatu with her husband, Abhay Nand for almost 40 years.
Mrs Nand said when working in a pharmacy, it was more than just a job for her.
“Being in a pharmacy is a full time job but with the kids is an extra full time,” she said.
She said she was away from her three children for almost 10 years as she had to work in Fiji from 8am to 9pm every day.
“During those days, there were not many pharmacists around, so sacrifice was essential,” she said.
“I even had to take my kids to work. My youngest one stayed in the pharmacy till he was about 3 years old. He actually grew up in the pharmacy dispensary with me.” Mrs Nand said her experiences over the years was rewarding as she got an opportunity to serve customers with the right medication and advice.
“For me, it was a special moment when I see someone came to me for medical advice and then they come back with a smile letting us know that the medications actually worked.
“It is not only about good pay or completing your working hours. It is also about keeping your customers happy and helping them.”
Mrs Nand has three sons Prabhay Nand, Nibhay Nand and Pranibhay Nand, who are all pharmacists and graduated from Australia and all have worked for wellknown pharmacies such as of Terry White, Priceline and Tony Ferguson in Australia before joining their family business.
She said she never pressured or asked her sons to become pharmacists.
“I must say that becoming pharmacists were their decision and in a way, they have really made me a proud mother. I feel happy to be their inspiration.”