Clinical Professor, Obstetrics-Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia
Director of Women's Health, Canadian Network of International Surgery
Positions
Biography
Dr. Jan Christilaw is an internationally esteemed advocate for women’s healthcare who, as a founding member of the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War, contributed to the organization receiving a Nobel Peace Prize. Currently the director of Women’s Health for the Canadian Network of International Surgeons, she has held leadership and volunteer roles at numerous B.C. and Canadian health institutions and women’s organizations. In B.C., she significantly enhanced healthcare for Indigenous people. In Africa, she helped boost women’s healthcare education and training, including in Ethiopia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. Her exceptional leadership and volunteerism have earned her honours at provincial, national, and international levels, including the Order of Canada in 2017.
Areas of Interest
Indigenous Health
Women's Global Health
Medical Education
Sexual and Reproductive Health
Awards
Global Citizenship Award (2024)
Distinguished Alumni Award, McMaster University (2018)
Member of the Order of Canada (2017)
Honorary Medical Alumna, UBC Faculty of Medicine (2016)
YWCA Women of Distinction (2015)
Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal (2013)
Distinguished Alumni Award in the Faculty of Science, University of Waterloo (2011)
National Leadership Award, Federation of Medical Women of Canada (2007)
British Columbia Community Service Award (2006)
Canadian International Surgery Volunteer of the Year Award