Dr. Mohamed Ravalia has received the Order of Canada.
The appointment recognizes Dr. Ravalia, assistant dean of the Faculty of Medicine’s Rural Medical Education Network, for his contributions to rural medicine in Newfoundland and Labrador as a family physician, mentor and community leader.
“As an immigrant to this wonderful country, I feel a profound sense of gratitude for the sense of fairness and equality that Canada affords all its citizens.”
Gov. Gen. David Johnston presided over an Order of Canada investiture ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, Ont., on May 13, as 48 distinguished Canadians joined or were promoted up the ranks.
‘Shine a spotlight’
“Dr. Ravalia’s contributions to Memorial University and the Faculty of Medicine shine a spotlight on the importance of rural medical education,” said President Kachanoski. “We are proud of his many achievements and pleased to see him recognized for his hard work.”
During Canada’s centennial year in 1967, the Order of Canada was created to recognize outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. Since its creation, more than 6,000 people have been invested.
“Dr. Ravalia has been instrumental in growing the rural medicine network in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Dr. James Rourke, dean, Faculty of Medicine. “The Faculty of Medicine has always viewed rural medicine as both a unique need, as well as an opportunity for pioneering work, and Dr. Ravalia has been at the forefront of this initiative.”
Three decades of service
Originally from Zimbabwe, Dr. Ravalia settled in Twillingate, N.L., more than three decades ago and has been actively engaged in the community ever since. His contributions to rural medicine across the province have earned him numerous accolades, with the Order of Canada being the most recent.
“It was an honour to receive the Order of Canada today and I’m proud of the contributions I have been able to make for the town of Twillingate and all of the rural communities in Newfoundland and Labrador,” Dr. Ravalia said. “As an immigrant to this wonderful country, I feel a profound sense of gratitude for the sense of fairness and equality that Canada affords all its citizens.”
‘Harmonious and supportive’
He credits others for helping him advance rural medical education.
“My wife Dianne and my sons Adam and Mikhail have been the anchors of my life. I have had wonderful mentors and colleagues who have helped shape my work in rural medicine over the past 30 years. My community has provided a solid, secure foundation from which I have had the opportunity to practise my craft in a harmonious and supportive environment.”
Dr. Ravalia says his involvement with Memorial’s Faculty of Medicine and the privilege of teaching students and residents has been one of the highlights of his medical career.
