Meet Dr. Vivian Rambihar, one of Canada's top immigrants
Published: June 29, 2012
U of T’s Dr. Vivian Rambihar has joined hip-hop artist K’naan and Member of Parliament Olivia Chow, as one of the Top 25 Canadian Immigrants for 2012.
The annual award created by Canadianimmigrant.ca and sponsored by RBC Canada, is a national people’s choice award which celebrates the inspiring achievements of Canadian immigrants and recognizes those who influence positive change.
“I am honoured to receive this award in such company,” says Rambihar. “It will definitely allow me to achieve more for the community.”
A cardiologist and Clinical Adjunct Assistant Professor, Rambihar is celebrated as a community activist, and a pioneer in the field of complexity science and in researching heart health issues among immigrants, particularly of South Asian origin.
As a young man, he was always enthusiastic about the study for medicine; however, the subject was not available in his home country of Guyana.
“I came to Canada because of the ability to do a degree in math and physics before medical school,” explains Rambihar. “Furthermore, I decided to select the U of T because of its international reputation.”
Receiving this honour caps off a memorable year for Rambihar; it was 40 years ago that he obtained his bachelor of science degree from the University of Toronto. And his three daughters, who are also medical doctors, completed studies at different levels at U of T this year.
Dr. Vanessa Rambihar has graduated from medical school. Dr. Nadira Rambihar completed her specialist training in physiatry. And Dr. Sherryn Rambihar has completed her fellowship year in cardiology. (Pictured here are Dr.Rambihar, his wife Perdita and daughters at Vanessa's U of T graduation in 2012.)
“I am extremely proud for the achievements of my daughters; their success helps illustrate the value of education and serving the community,” says Rambihar.
Rambihar is Health Co-chair of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin and currently developing the concept of “Global Heart Hour” with his daughter Vanessa, launched with medical students at U of T four years ago.
