Canada is home to a large and vibrant Filipino-Canadian community, and many of these individuals have made significant contributions to the fields of science and nature. Here is one of few of the most notable Filipino-Canadian scientists and naturalists:
Dr. Marivic C. Calara is a wildlife biologist who is known for her work on the conservation of bats. She is a professor at the University of Manitoba and the director of the Manitoba Bat Centre.
Hailing from the Philippines, Dr. Calara was born in 1963. She pursued her undergraduate studies in Biology at the University of the Philippines before advancing her education further in Canada. There, she obtained her doctorate degree in Wildlife Biology from the University of Manitoba. Her association with the same university grew stronger in 1995 when she officially became a part of its faculty. In 2001, she reached another milestone in her career when she assumed the role of the director at the Manitoba Bat Centre.
Her diligent studies on bat ecology and behavior have provided invaluable insights, and she’s pioneered techniques to safeguard bats from hazards like disease and loss of habitat. Alongside her direct conservation work, she has devoted considerable effort to heightening public consciousness about the crucial role bats play within our environment.
Dr. Calara is a passionate advocate for bat conservation. She has worked with governments, businesses, and communities to develop bat-friendly policies and practices. She has also been a vocal critic of the use of bats in research and the trade of bat products.
Dr. Calara stands as a beacon of inspiration for both Filipino-Canadians and women pursuing careers in science. Through her remarkable journey, she has demonstrated that achieving greatness in the fields of science and conservation is attainable, regardless of hailing from a developing country. Education and outreach lie close to her heart, and she actively engages in creating educational resources on bats while delivering impactful presentations to schools and community groups.
As a genuine advocate for bat conservation, Dr. Calara’s tireless efforts have played a vital role in protecting these creatures from the threat of extinction. Moreover, she has been instrumental in raising awareness about the critical role bats play in our environment. Her dedication and passion make her a true inspiration for scientists and conservationists worldwide.
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