Dr. Rajinder Atwal, MD, CCFP, FCFP, has made an indelible impact in healthcare, women’s empowerment, and STEM mentorship. Her achievements have earned her a 2024 Global Recognition Award, acknowledging her tireless dedication to improving access for underrepresented communities. Growing up as a visible minority as a child of South Asian immigrants in Calgary, she transformed her challenges into a lifelong mission to empower marginalized communities. Throughout her career, Dr. Atwal has demonstrated a unique ability to merge medical expertise with community advocacy, leading initiatives addressing critical healthcare and education needs.

Dr. Atwal’s extensive experience spans over 28 years, during which she has cared for more than 130,000 patients. Her healthcare approach is patient-centered and rooted in a deep commitment to the welfare of marginalized groups. By focusing on accessible and inclusive healthcare delivery, Dr. Atwal has made a lasting contribution to the field, serving as an examiner and fellow for the Canadian College of Family Physicians. Prestigious accolades like The Leading Physicians of the World and the Top Doctor Award have recognized her work.

Community Service and Advocacy: Creating Opportunities for All

In addition to her medical practice, Dr. Atwal has pioneered several nonprofit organizations that meet the diverse needs of her community. These include Women STEM Mentorship, Beyond Boundaries Soccer, and Covid 24-7 Canada, all of which address specific social challenges. Her commitment to service is evident in how she tailors each organization to respond directly to the issues that affect those who are most vulnerable, ensuring that no one is left behind in times of crisis or change.

Through these organizations, Dr. Atwal has provided essential services during the COVID-19 pandemic and promoted environmental sustainability and the advancement of women and girls in male-dominated fields. For instance, her efforts to provide 24-hour virtual healthcare during the pandemic exemplify her capacity to create innovative solutions under pressure. By leveraging technology, she brought vital resources directly to families and children, ensuring their mental and physical well-being in an unprecedented global health crisis.

Mentorship in STEM: Empowering the Next Generation

Dr. Atwal’s work through the Women STEM Mentorship program has supported women and teenage girls pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Her mentorship program has impacted hundreds of mentees from culturally diverse backgrounds and disadvantaged groups, focusing on inclusivity and empowerment. Through mentorship, Dr. Atwal has opened doors for participants to explore career opportunities in fields where women are historically underrepresented.

The mentorship program has expanded beyond traditional guidance, offering one-on-one coaching, career development sessions, and e-mentoring. These initiatives have played a crucial role in the professional growth of participants, many of whom have secured positions in engineering, medical sciences, and software development. Her dedication to mentorship has earned her recognition as a national finalist for the Women Empowerment Mentorship 2024 award. Dr. Atwal’s approach to mentorship emphasizes personalized support, ensuring each individual receives the tools necessary to succeed in a competitive environment.

Final Words

Dr. Atwal’s remarkable journey, from overcoming childhood challenges to becoming a renowned leader in healthcare, is a testament to her resilience and vision. In her 2024 book Breaking Barriers: Women in STEM, she shares the lessons and experiences that have shaped her path, offering valuable insights for future generations. The recognition she continues to receive, such as being named one of 200 Global Women Power Leaders in 2024 and being awarded an Honorary Doctorate in 2025 from Cetacea University, underscores her commitment to fostering growth and equality.

As a result of her groundbreaking work, Dr. Atwal has become a beacon of inspiration, showing that perseverance and a dedication to helping others can create lasting change. A 2024 Global Recognition Award reflects her tireless efforts to advance scientific knowledge, improve healthcare access, and empower those often overlooked. Her ongoing contributions will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of healthcare and mentorship in STEM for many years.