Pharmacy Innovator, Healthcare Leader, Community Advocate

Kristen Watt, B.Sc. Pharm., R.Ph., is an accomplished pharmacist, entrepreneur, and healthcare advocate who has dedicated her career to reimagining what pharmacy care can be.

Since founding Kristen's Pharmacy in Southampton, Ontario in 2017, Kristen has created a healthcare hub that goes far beyond traditional dispensing. Her patient-centered approach has transformed her pharmacy into a cornerstone of healthcare in Saugeen Shores, offering innovative services including custom medication compounding, comprehensive pain management, addiction treatment services, and minor ailments assessment and treatment. What truly sets Kristen's practice apart is her commitment to culturally sensitive care, exemplified by her partnerships with local First Nations communities to support harm reduction and improve health outcomes.

As an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Waterloo, Kristen mentors future pharmacists and coordinates clinical rotations for PharmD students. She manages professional networks for pharmacy owners and creates educational resources on medication safety, deprescribing, vaccines, and pediatric care.

Kristen brings strategic vision to key leadership positions including Vice Chair of the Ontario Pharmacists Association Board of Directors and Board Member for PharmaChoice Canada, supporting over 1,000 independent pharmacies. She previously served as Chair of the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility Committee at Grey Bruce Hospice. As one of only two women on the PharmaChoice Canada Board, Kristen brings vital perspective to governance discussions while advocating for independent pharmacy sustainability.

Kristen's commitment to healthcare equity extends globally. As head pharmacist for medical aid trips to Zambia in 2022 and 2024, she developed treatment protocols, provided care to over 1,200 underserved individuals, and delivered community health education. During COVID-19, Kristen demonstrated exceptional adaptability by coordinating vaccine distribution, implementing Paxlovid prescribing programs, and adapting pharmacy services to meet evolving community needs.

What clients, colleagues, and community members value most about Kristen is her ability to blend clinical expertise with practical business sense and authentic compassion. She approaches every challenge with a commitment to finding solutions that work in the real world, respecting cultural contexts, and always putting people first..