Pharmacy celebrates grand opening of new location

Olive Tree Compounding Pharmacy, a local pharmacy that already has a location on Westside Boulevard, celebrated the grand opening of its own building March 30 with a ribbon cutting.

The pharmacy rents the former space on Westside, and its owner, Ndidiamaka (Didi) Okpareke, wanted her own building.

"Thank you to the mayor for even having this space available for a Black woman like me," she said.

The first location opened in 2017, when Okpareke says she remembers her youngest son being only 3 years old.

"Olive Tree started just as a pipe dream. I was told that I couldn't do it. I was told that I didn't have enough money, which was true," she said.

In spite of trials and tribulations, Okpareke continued that "pipe dream" and eventually found she was able to open her own location. This was not unnoticed by the city, the Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce and various New Mexico officials.

"She says, 'I don't want to pay rent anymore. I want to own my own building,' and based on the success that she had here in Rio Rancho, she decided to invest here and put her blood, sweat and tears into her business. Now she's built a beautiful building that's going to serve the community of Rio Rancho for many years to come," Mayor Gregg Hull said.

He continued saying she is no longer just a pharmacist.

"She's a developer. I'm telling you, it's exciting, and it's no easy feat to build a building. It's no easy feat to grow and expand," he added.

Hull related to the feat, saying it can be horrifying to "put it all on the line for what you believe in."

Sandoval County Commissioner Dave Heil was also pleased that Okpareke chose Rio Rancho. He said Rio Rancho being the fastest-growing city in turn makes Sandoval County the fastest-growing county. Heil mentioned the county's involvement with Olive Tree's development, saying the county and Okpareke had met many times.

Okpareke joked that was only when she needed money.

"We were proud to be able to provide some and hope to help this this process grow. I mean, that's what it's all about, you know? We like to invest in our local businesses so they are investing enough. So we wish you so much success," Heil replied.

Olive Tree got praise from State Rep. Joshua Hernandez, too.

"I myself am also a small business owner, and I get it. So you know what, good on you and thank you. We look to see you continue growing until there is five of these all over the state," he said.

To add more praise and support, Okpareke was appreciated by the Black Chamber of Commerce of New Mexico as well.

The building is not quite finished, but it does have room for future expansion.