International Women’s Day

In honour of the 115^th International Women’s Day (IWD), meet some of the outstanding women in the UBC Faculty of Medicine — learners, faculty and staff — who are transforming health for everyone.

The IWD campaign encourages us to imagine a gender-equal world that is diverse, equitable and inclusive, where difference is valued and celebrated. This year, as part of the worldwide celebrations of women’s achievements, we asked community members to share what the day means to them.

Read on to hear reflections from some of our outstanding learners, staff and faculty members across the province.

“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, please join me in recognizing the remarkable women across the Faculty of Medicine — both past and present — and their transformative impact here at home and around the world. This day is an opportunity for us all to reflect on the contributions we can make toward equity, diversity and inclusion as we advance medical education, research and better health for people everywhere.”
Dr. Sharmila Anandasabapathy, Dean, Faculty of Medicine and Vice-President, Health, UBC

“For me, International Women’s Day means…”

Cydney Quon

1st Year MD Student, Island Medical Program, Victoria

Expressing gratitude to the women who shaped me and striving to create spaces grounded in equity, belonging, and support.

Allison Gilbert

Curriculum and Assessment Manager, Years 1&2, Southern Medical Program, Kelowna

A moment to spotlight women’s achievements and leadership, and to reaffirm our commitment to empowering all women, particularly those who are underrepresented.

Dr. Mona Patel

Clinical Associate Professor & Associate Head Education, Department of Pediatrics

Celebrating women in all their diversity and showing young girls that they are equal, capable, powerful and limitless in their potential.

May Elbar

PhD Candidate & Graduate Researcher, School of Audiology and Speech Sciences

A commitment to advancing progress across science, healthcare, and medicine to create spaces where women feel truly seen, heard, and supported.

Dr. Jennifer Locke

Clinical Instructor, Department of Urologic Sciences

I always truly listen to my female patients and advocate for equitable, innovative, respectful healthcare that prioritizes women’s well-being.

Valentine Contival

Communications Manager, Department of Medicine

Remembering that equality is built daily: by speaking up, sharing opportunities, and making room for every voice.

Dr. Jade Witten

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy

Celebrating ordinary women whose meaningful contributions create extraordinary impact.

Kudrat Mundi

4th Year MD Student, Northern Medical Program, Prince George

Honouring the women whose courage opened doors for the next generation.

Afsoon Mombeini

PhD Candidate, School of Biomedical Engineering, Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health

Honouring women throughout history who fought for equality and paved the way for future generations. And a reminder to keep amplifying women’s voices.

Luba Butska

Associate Professor of Teaching, Midwifery Program

Honouring the immense courage and bravery of women around the world who fight for freedom, justice, and dignity for all.

Lisa McCune

Senior Education Manager, School of Poplation and Public Health

Learning about women’s lives globally, appreciating the self-determination I have in Canada, and taking action to foster a supportive workplace and community.

Dr. Allyson Kis

Family Medicine Resident, Terrace

Recognizing resilience, celebrating achievements, and continuing to work towards gender equity in all fields.

Soren Meeuwisse

4th Year MD student, Southern Medical Program, Kelowna

Celebrating women’s power and refusing to accept systems that weren’t built with us in mind.

Tanya Stella

Office Manager, Office of the Regional Associate Dean, Northern BC, Prince George

Appreciation and gratitude to all the strong and fearless woman I surround myself with every day.

Dr. Elizabeth Rideout

Associate Professor, Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences

An opportunity to share how discovery science can provide fundamental insights that will advance women’s health.

Himani Prajapati

PhD Candidate, Rehabilitation Sciences

Celebrating women who rise to life’s many roles with resilience, grace, and an unwavering smile through tireless dedication and quiet determination.

Karen Waugh-Clark

Director, Administration, Vancouver-Fraser Medical Program

A reminder that globally, 1 in 3 women still experience some form of gender-based violence in their lifetime. We can collectively change this.

Dr. Kristin Campbell

Professor & Associate Head, Research, Department of Physical Therapy and Member, Women’s Health Research Institute

Celebrating advances in women’s health while underscoring the urgent need to address remaining gaps through improved research and clinical attention.

Sara Ohora

Manager, Strategy and Administration, UBC Distributed Programs – Vancouver Island, Victoria

Lifting each other up, building strong networks of support, and advocating for women at every stage of their careers.

Vicky Yau

Director, Administration, Department of Family Practice

Celebrating women’s achievements, strength, and voices, and embracing the responsibility to lift one another up.

March 2, 2026