The Value of ISoP: Opportunities, Networking, and Growth in Pharmacovigilance

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At last year’s ISoP Annual Meeting in Cairo, Faith Muhiire asked me why I was so involved with ISoP. My answer was simple: I have received real benefits from giving my time to ISoP. In this newsletter, I share how those materialized for me and how early-career pharmacovigilance (PV) practitioners can make the most of the organisation.

What is ISoP?

The International Society of Pharmacovigilance (ISoP) is a not-for-profit global organisation that empowers its members to drive rigorous, innovative science in patient safety through education, capacity building, and global partnerships. Learn more: https://isoponline.org/

How ISoP has benefited me

Opportunities

Earlier this year, I was invited to serve as a member of a Data Safety Monitoring Board for a clinical trial in South Africa. The invitation came from a colleague I work closely with in the ISoP Africa Chapter. This followed a conversation where I shared my journey in pharmacovigilance (PV) in clinical trials and my interest in becoming more involved in this area.

I have also received project referrals from colleagues within ISoP, ranging from LQPPV support to inspection readiness.

Networking

Every professional association lists networking as a benefit of membership, but the idea can seem daunting and abstract until you have no choice but to reach out for help.

For me, ISoP has provided access to regulators, PV researchers, and specialists in industry and development organisations such as Africa CDC and the African Medicines Agency.

A key part of my work involves engaging with regulators across Africa. I often leverage my ISoP network to identify the right contacts or to follow up on inquiries. I also use this network to support clients in identifying LQPPVs. At times, I reach out to more experienced members for career guidance and research ideas.

Learning

I am always on the lookout for ISoP webinars aligned with my interests. Last week, I joined a session from the ISoP North America Chapter (NASoP) to learn about pharmacovigilance due diligence in drug development—especially in the context of product acquisition during clinical trials.

Today, I am joining the ISoP Industry Community to discuss PV outsourcing from the perspective of an independent contractor.

I am a lifelong learner, and ISoP provides a platform for me to stay up to date with developments in pharmacovigilance worldwide.

How to make the most of ISoP

I often recommend ISoP to recent graduates who reach out to me about a career in PV. I also included ISoP in the introductory PV module of the African Pharmaceutical Network (APN) PV and Patient Safety Course.

Of course, the first step is to become a member. But to truly benefit, one ought to be actively involved. Here are my tips:

• Join a local chapter. It could be at the country or continental level, such as the Africa Chapter. This will help you connect with PV professionals near you and keep you informed about local opportunities.
• Join a Special Interest Group (SIG) or community. If you are early in your career, join several groups as you explore different areas of PV. I am currently involved in the newly formed Industry Community and greatly enjoy sharing experiences and learning from industry professionals.
• Volunteer for leadership roles. This could be as simple as serving as a secretary — coordinating meetings and documenting activities. Such roles allow you to work closely with senior members and gain valuable mentorship. Be reliable and demonstrate a strong work ethic. People tend to recommend those they trust.
• Attend webinars and meetings. There is always something happening in PV. Stay curious and engaged. Ask questions. People remember those who actively participate. Connect with attendees on LinkedIn, and follow up with speakers to thank them and share your key takeaways. These small cumulative actions will help you stand out.

ISoP Africa Chapter Meeting 2026

If you’ve made it this far, let me share an exciting opportunity:

The ISoP Africa Chapter Meeting 2026 will take place from 18–20 May 2026 in Windhoek, Namibia.

Here’s why you should attend:

• Pre-conference training (18 May): Audits and Inspections 

Regulatory inspections in Africa are increasing, and many Marketing Authorisation Holders (MAHs) and PV vendors are experiencing them for the first time. This training will bring together regulators and industry experts to share practical insights.

• Rich scientific programme across six sub-themes 

I am particularly looking forward to:

Digital Transformation in PV, featuring Andrew Mitchell and Dr Macarius Donneyong on the future of work in an Artificial Intelligence PV era and the use of AI/Machine Learning in PV

Pharmacovigilance in Public Health and Emergency Situations, where Alemayehu L. Duga, PhD will share lessons from Mpox response activities

• Opportunities for PV vendors 

Africa is rapidly emerging as a key market for PV services due to increasingly stringent regulations. MAHs are actively seeking vendors to support local compliance. This meeting is an excellent opportunity to showcase your services and network with key stakeholders.

If this has sparked your interest, please visit: https://isopafrica.com/ to register or become a sponsor.

ISoP has been more than just a professional association for me—it has been a platform for growth, connection, and opportunity. The value you gain is directly tied to the effort you put in. If you are early in your pharmacovigilance career, don’t just join—show up, engage, and contribute. You may be surprised by how much it can shape your journey.

Written by

Odokonyero Kennedy

Pharmacist, Global Shaper at Kampala Hub and student of Msc. Pharmaceuticals and Health Supplies Management at Makerere University. [email protected]

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