Abadir Nasr is a Canadian pharmacist and small business owner based in Mississauga, Ontario, who is passionate about community service. Abadir owns several businesses in Ontario, including Midland IDA Pharmacy, Whitfield Guardian Pharmacy, and the wholesaling company Arvazy, all of which he strives to deliver exceptional healthcare services. Outside of work, he actively supports local food banks, sponsors youth sports, and has led significant contributions, such as a $50,000 donation to Georgian Bay Hospital, reflecting his dedication to giving back and making a lasting impact.
Q: Can you tell us about your journey to becoming a pharmacist and small business owner?
Abadir Nasr: My path to pharmacy began at a young age, inspired by my father, a dedicated pharmacist. I fondly remember spending time in his pharmacy, witnessing firsthand the care and compassion he provided to each patient. Those early experiences left a lasting impression on me, as I saw the vital role he played in the community and the genuine connections formed through his work. It was here that my dream of following in his footsteps was born, and over the years, that intent has only grown stronger.
As I pursued my education, I was determined to harness my passion for healthcare and apply it to my own career. Today, I am proud to be a pharmacist and a small business owner practicing in Ontario. I operate several businesses, including Midland IDA Pharmacy in Midland and Whitfield Guardian Pharmacy in Elmvale. Additionally, I founded Arvazy, a pharmaceutical wholesale company located in Oakville. Each establishment represents a business venture and a commitment to serving my community.
Q: What does being a pharmacist mean to you on a personal level?
Abadir Nasr: I feel a great sense of fulfillment whenever I am in a position to help patients. I appreciate knowing that medications are dispensed and people trust me to provide the right advice. It is gratifying to know that my work helps customers. Every day, it reminds me about the privilege I have to be someone’s source of support and the responsibilities accompanying it.
I sincerely appreciate knowing that the medications I dispense and the advice I give can genuinely make a difference in people’s lives. When people come to me seeking assistance, I recognize how much trust they place in my hands. This relationship is enriching, as it reminds me of the privilege of being a source of support.
I am constantly reminded of the responsibilities that come with this role. It is a beautiful blend of service and duty, where I strive to ensure that my patients are informed and cared for with the highest standard of care. Knowing that my work can positively impact their health motivates me daily.
Q: What is your attitude towards community service while conducting business?
Abadir Nasr: I firmly believe that community engagement is essential to the success of any business. At the heart of my operations is an unyielding commitment to the communities that support us.
For example, the journey of Whitfield Guardian Pharmacy, which celebrated its 70th anniversary in Elmvale, exemplifies our dedication to the local community. This milestone reinforces our belief that businesses flourish when they uplift the neighborhoods around them.
One of our proudest moments was the recent donation of $50,000 to the Georgian Bay Hospital. The recognition, honored by the plaque at the hospital’s registration desk, reminds us of our responsibility to contribute positively to the healthcare needs of our community. Additionally, our support extends to local food banks and a youth ice hockey team, as fostering local activities creates opportunities for the next generation to thrive.
Community service is a responsibility and an integral aspect of our business ethics. By investing in our community, we pave the way for mutual growth and prosperity.
Q: Can you share the significance of the 70th-anniversary celebration at Whitfield Guardian Pharmacy?
Abadir Nasr: It was one of the most satisfying events for my team and the residents of Elmvale. This milestone was more than just a celebration of our years in business; it reaffirmed the core values and rich history that our pharmacy represents.
For decades, the goal has been to help people, and this anniversary allowed us to reflect on how far we’ve come. Seeing our community come together to celebrate our achievements and the relationships we’ve forged over the years was inspiring.
Q: What motivates you beyond your professional work?
Abadir Nasr: My family quickly becomes my greatest motivation when I step away from my professional responsibilities. I cherish every moment spent with loved ones, whether attending thrilling soccer and basketball events or simply enjoying quiet evenings together. These shared experiences create lasting memories that I hold dear.
In addition to family time, I strongly emphasize living a healthy lifestyle. Staying physically active benefits my well-being and complements my professional dedication to creating a positive impact. I strive to be the best version of myself, whether in the pharmacy, supporting my favorite sports teams, or giving back to the community.
Every initiative I undertake is driven by a vision to leave a positive footprint through patient care or community sponsorship. I genuinely believe that my passion for my family, health, and activities fuels my motivation and enriches my life in wonderful ways.
Q: What’s next for you as a pharmacist and entrepreneur?
Abadir Nasr: Looking ahead, I’m excited about the opportunities that lie before me as a pharmacist and entrepreneur. I genuinely believe there’s a beautiful balance to be struck between business growth and maintaining the personal touch that our local communities cherish.
As the pharmacy landscape evolves, I’m eager to explore how we can embrace innovative technologies and adopt new practices to enhance our services. At the same time, I remain dedicated to nurturing relationships with my clients and colleagues. Our progress must always be client-centered and of the highest quality.
I envision a future where we can combine cutting-edge advancements with the warmth of personal engagement, ensuring that health and wellness are accessible to everyone in our community. This blend of innovation and intimacy is what will drive my endeavors forward.