“Each woman should be her own trail blazer knowing that she will be supported and lifted by the women around her to help her fulfill her dreams and achieve her goals. She should forge her own path and listen to her inner voice.”- Dr. Madhu Jawanda, MD, CCFP
A family physician for over 20 years in Surrey. In her practice she aims to empower my patients, especially women, to live their best lives. Born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta and she graduated from the University of Alberta Medical School. She have been in the lower mainland for over 20 years. Her inspiration was my grandmother Dr Ajmer Kaur, Gold Medalist at Lady Hardinge Medical College,1932. She is also a Co-founder of the BC South Asian Covid Task Force, a national, non political grassroots volunteer organization founded in November 2020.
What does being a woman mean to you?
Being a woman epitomizes the meaning of renaissance. A woman is multifaceted, dynamic, powerful and caring. The unique combination of all these traits allows her to build and nurture a solid foundation for those around her.
What has been your biggest achievement in 2020, personally and professionally?
My biggest achievement in 2020 has been helping to navigate the Covid 19 pandemic by being a co-founder of the BC Division of the South Asian Covid-19 Task Force (SACTF). It has been a privilege to educate and empower my fellow South Asians and Canadians to help them better understand the ever evolving pandemic, and what they can do to protect themselves and their communities. I have met many wonderful volunteers and have seen that by working together we can all make a real difference. This has been a very satisfying personal and professional achievement which I could not have done without the support and encouragement of my family and friends.
A milestone that defines your journey?
As a lifelong learner, I have realized that each stage of life has its own milestones. The journey continues and I am excited to see what comes next.
What are you working on right now and in 2021?
I am continuing my work with the SACTF. Our current priorities are to educate about the new variants, vaccine myth busting and helping coordinate vaccine roll outs. We want to keep Canadians healthy.
Who inspires you to do better each day?
I have been blessed to have been surrounded and raised by strong, educated women. In particular, my paternal grandmother was an inspiration to me. She was an only child who was educated at Lady Hardinge Medical School (Class of 1932). She went on to be a successful career woman and mother. She and my own mother inspire me to be my best and do better each day. My success mantra is gratitude. I give thanks for each day and hope to live life to the fullest.
What’s your advice for women who wish to follow your path?
Each woman should be her own trail blazer knowing that she will be supported and lifted by the women around her to help her fulfill her dreams and achieve her goals. She should forge her own path and listen to her inner voice. “There is always light if only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it” - Amanda Gorman
Photo: A Master Media