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Women Breaking Barriers: GPhC Chair Gisela Abbam wins Novi award

Gisela Abbam, chair of GPhC, honoured with a prestigious Novi Award
Gisela winning an award

The Novi Awards 2024 celebrated extraordinary women transforming industries across the UK and beyond

Gisela Abbam, chair of the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), has been honoured with a prestigious Novi Award in recognition of her outstanding leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

She received the award in the 'Women on Boards' category during a ceremony held on November 24.


With the theme “Women Breaking Barriers,” the Novi Awards 2024 celebrated extraordinary women transforming industries across the UK and beyond.

On receiving the award, Abbam said: “I’m delighted to be amongst this year’s winners who have shown that it is possible for women of all backgrounds to achieve great things across all different sectors.

“I believe that being a leader is about being an advocate – not only to drive change, but also to support and inspire the people around you.

“It is an honour to be recognised through this award.”

GPhC chief executive Duncan Rudkin, congratulated Gisela on winning the “well-deserved award.”

“Gisela is passionate about improving access and equality in health and that is evident in her work as Chair at the GPhC,” he said.

He went on to say that she is a “fantastic role model and a worthy winner.”

The star-studded ceremony at The Londoner brought together influential leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, featuring crucial discussions on pressing issues facing women in business, including the severe underfunding of women’s healthcare, and fostering truly inclusive workplaces.

Griselda Togobo, founder of the Novi Awards, said: “Novi represents more than recognition – it’s a movement to drive real change for women in business.”

“This year’s winners exemplify the breakthrough leadership and innovation that’s possible when we champion diverse voices and perspectives.”

The event highlighted 83 exceptional nominees across 16 categories who are reshaping the future of business and technology.

“This year’s winners and nominees aren’t just breaking barriers – they’re completely redefining what’s possible.

“Their success stories prove that when we invest in women’s leadership, entire industries transform for the better,” added Togobo.

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