Dr. Ranbir K. Banwait Fulfills her Dream
R
anbir K Banwait decided she would pursue a PhD when she was in grade five. The eldest of three siblings, and an example to her younger brothers, she explains that her family had the right ingredients for her to achieve success. Her mother Kulvinder, holds a Master’s degree in Punjabi and History, and was an educator in India before she immigrated to Canada. Her father Jasbir, has a degree in the sciences. Reminiscing about her childhood, Ranbir recalls how her parents provided a safe and nourishing environment for their children to read, play and realize their potential. Supporting all three of their children in their individual goals, they encouraged Ranbir’s creative interests in drawing, painting and writing; this early education in the arts would later pave the way to graduate training in the humanities. Thinking back to her own educational journey, Ranbir points out the important role that mentors play in the formative years of a child’s life. Her grandparents Dharam Kaur and Bhagat Singh Chera were a significant fixture during her childhood years. Arts and crafts, reading and fitness activities strengthened the bond they shared, and spending time with them meant that she learned to value different forms of learning as a life-long goal. In providing support as her parents worked to secure a life for their family, her grandparents played an indispensable role in shaping their grandchildren’s lives. In grade five, Ranbir met another figure who would play an influential role in her life. A university professor from the Philippines, her great-Uncle, Ajit S. Rye, inspired her to pursue a PhD. In the many discussions they had during his visit,
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