Pharmalys is proud to host interns sponsored by the Mastercard Foundation, an initiative aimed at equipping young professionals in Africa with valuable skills and career opportunities. Through this partnership, interns gain hands-on experience across various fields, including Clinical Trials, Human Resources, IT, and Accounting. Abra, one of the Mastercard Foundation interns, is currently working in Human Resources at Pharmalys. We had the opportunity to speak with her about her background, her role, and her experience so far.
Can you tell us about your academic and professional background? Did you always hope to work in Human Resources?
I’ve had a very unconventional academic and professional journey. My background is quite diverse, ranging from a bachelor’s degree in biology and animal physiology to additional degrees in social work and international management, culminating in a professional master’s degree in Human Resources Management. This varied path has allowed me to gain experience in different industries and roles.
As a social worker, I had the opportunity to work with vulnerable groups and various organisations, including Mercy Ships, the Mastercard Foundation, ATD Fourth World, and the Albino Foundation in Senegal. As a biologist, I worked in public health on the Mercy Ships, where I was responsible for COVID-19 testing during the pandemic, as well as working in the infection control department and the Low Care Unit.
My journey in Human Resources began with roles in HR firms in Senegal and a multinational company in Togo. Now, I am at Pharmalys as part of the Mastercard Foundation programme, and I am thrilled to be part of such a dynamic team.
Could you walk us through a typical day in your role? What are your current responsibilities?
Now in my third month at Pharmalys, my role has evolved significantly. My first month was dedicated to understanding the structure and familiarising myself with Pharmalys’ Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). From the second month, I began working on various tasks, including updating employee records, tracking workdays for French employees for 2023 and 2024, and managing employees’ health insurance, which has been my primary focus since January.
What aspects of your internship at Pharmalys have you enjoyed the most? Have there been any rewarding or challenging experiences?
Given the short duration of my internship so far, it’s still early for a full assessment. However, I have particularly enjoyed working on the insurance files I am managing. I look forward to further exploring different aspects of HR at Pharmalys in the coming months.
How has your time at Pharmalys helped you develop new skills or grow professionally?
Pharmalys’ vision aligns with my professional ambitions, which has made my integration seamless. The tasks I am assigned help me better understand the company’s operations, and I am motivated to learn and contribute more. Training sessions with my line manager and hands-on experience with various HR tasks are helping me develop my professional skills significantly.
Looking ahead, what do you hope to gain from the rest of your internship?
Pharmalys is the ideal place for me to be at this stage of my career. My aspirations align with the company’s mission, and the diverse, multicultural work environment provides a fantastic opportunity for growth and development. I look forward to expanding my skills and making a meaningful contribution during my time here.
Abra’s journey at Pharmalys highlights the opportunities created through Pharmalys’ partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, providing young professionals with hands-on experience in a supportive environment. Through this collaboration, talented individuals like Abra gain the skills and exposure needed to advance their careers. We look forward to seeing her continued growth in the coming months!
