Sanghvi has been recognised as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his “significant service to community health through governance and board roles.”
Sanghvi says being considered for the award came as a 'surprise'.
“Emotions are, to be honest, a bit overwhelmed. The recognition came as a surprise, and it’s a privilege,” 75-year old Sanghvi said.
UK-trained pharmacist Sanghvi began his Australian journey in 1979 when he opened his first pharmacy store in Victoria.
“I arrived in Australia in 1976 with no connections, so all we could do was work,” he recalled.
Determined to establish his own business, he and his wife worked 'tirelessly' to raise the funds needed to open the pharmacy.
“In those early days, we juggled three jobs just to make ends meet and get our business started,” he said.
He later served as Board Chair of Musculoskeletal Australia and Monash Health, and as President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s Victoria Branch from 2006 to 2011.
"When I was elected President of the Victoria Branch of the Pharmacy Guild, I became the first person of Indian heritage to hold the position,” he said.
“I represented the state’s community pharmacists, and I never felt any different from anyone else here,” he added.
Sanghvi believes his success in Australia came from feeling part of the system and working for the wellbeing of the wider community.
“Working in healthcare is the purest form of public service, whether at the bedside or the board table. At its heart, it’s about caring for people, easing suffering and helping them live healthier, better lives,” he said.
He acknowledged the support of many people who shared his vision, saying the award belonged to all of them.
His previous roles also include Board Chair of the Return of Unwanted Medicines.
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