Pani's Journey : From receiving CBT's Education Award to Pursuing Medicine at UBC

Pani Ayoubizadeh from Ucluelet received the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Education award in 2022 and is currently studying science at the University of British Columbia to become a cardiac surgeon. She has recently gotten in touch to share an update on her academic journey as well as her personal growth since receiving the award.

Thanks, Pani, for generously sharing your experience with us and for your exceptional dedication. Your hard work is truly inspiring!

Pani said: "Firstly, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the invaluable support you have provided, without which pursuing my education at UBC would have been an insurmountable challenge.

At UBC, I have embraced various opportunities for personal and professional development. Last year, I had the privilege of serving as the Minister of Information Management for the British Columbia Youth Parliament and serving as a part of the Cabinet in the Victoria Legislative Assembly. During the summer break, I furthered my skills by completing a First Aid course and obtaining certification in this vital area.

Additionally, I had the privilege of serving as an Orientation Leader for Jump Start 2023, where I assisted incoming first-year students in transitioning to university life. I have dedicated my time to volunteering at the Emergency Department of Lions Gate General Hospital, gaining firsthand experience in healthcare.

Moreover, I have become an integral part of the UBC SCI Team, collaborating with fellow students and faculty members to create resources and events aimed at enhancing the academic experience for all UBC Science students. My involvement in initiatives such as the Meet Your Major Committee, Webmasters Committee, and Professional Development Committee has allowed me to contribute meaningfully to our academic community.

Balancing my academic pursuits with extracurricular activities and personal responsibilities has been a significant challenge. However, through perseverance and determination, I have learned to manage my time effectively while prioritizing my well-being and academic success. Looking ahead, I am eager to expand my network and deepen my understanding of the medical field by joining the UBC Pre-Med Club. I believe that connecting with like-minded peers will further enrich my educational experience and prepare me for future endeavours in medicine.

In closing, I cannot overstate the impact that the CBT scholarship has had on my life. Your generosity has not only alleviated financial burdens but has also empowered me to pursue my academic and personal goals with confidence. I am profoundly grateful for your continued support and belief in my potential.

Thank you once again for your unwavering commitment to higher education and for making a difference in the lives of students like me."

Announcing the 2024 Community Development Grants

July 23, 2024
We are excited to announce the recipients of the 2024 Community Development grants. This year, five outstanding projects in our region have been awarded a total of $24,000 in funding. These grants are dedicated to fostering accessible, inclusive, healthy, supportive, equitable, and sustainable communities, helping to build a stronger and more united region.

Announcing the 2024 Research & Environment Grants

July 17, 2024
We're excited to announce the recipients of the 2024 Research and Environment grants. This year, the CBT awarded over $36,000 in funding to six inspiring projects in the region. These projects address threats to key species and ecosystems and uplift nuučaan̓uł (Nuu-chah-nulth) ways of knowing. Efforts also focus on habitat conservation, restoration, and protection for ecologically and culturally important species and ecosystems.

Welcoming our 2024 Summer Intern

July 15, 2024
We're excited to welcome Zahur Ashrafuzzaman (she/he/they), our new summer intern who is already making valuable contributions to a variety of projects across the organization!

Our Team's Experience at EuroMAB 2024

June 11, 2024
In early June 2024, two members of the CBT team, Colin Robinson and Janessa Dornstauder had the opportunity to attend EuroMAB 2024 in the Elbe River Landscape, Germany – a UNESCO Biosphere. Because there are so few countries in North America, Canada, and the USA participate in the European network, while Mexico participates in the Latin network. Read more about their experience! 

Marcie Callewaert Reflects on her Leadership Journey

May 6, 2024
“Participating in LVI gave me back my leadership confidence that I had lost somewhere along the way. It was a great reminder of what I am capable of and provided me with tools to strengthen my skills as I move forward in new roles. Because of LVI, I took chances that I never would have taken just a few years ago and they paid off! I am so thankful for the community of support that LVI creates during the program and in the months and years afterwards."

Share the Fare: Elevating Sustainability for the Biosphere Centre

May 2, 2024
Harbour Air, renowned as the Pacific's premier seaplane airline, has recently forged a partnership that aims to redefine the skies. Collaborating with the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust (CBT), Harbour Air's mission goes beyond flight; it's about flying with purpose, with its new support for the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre.

Harbour Air Expands Share the Fare Program to Include the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust

April 10, 2024
arbour Air, North America’s largest seaplane airline, announced today its partnership with the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust (CBT) as part of its Share the Fare program. This collaboration underscores Harbour Air’s commitment to supporting coastal communities in British Columbia and advancing sustainable initiatives.

Join us for our Annual Biosphere Region BioBlitz!

April 2, 2024
On Saturday, April 20th, participate from anywhere within the biosphere region to celebrate the upcoming Earth Day! It’s an excellent opportunity to step outdoors and learn about the amazing biodiversity in the area.

Grant Writing Workshop

January 26, 2024
Join this half-day workshop hosted in partnership with the West Coast N.E.S.T. (CBT's regional education tourism initiative) to learn effective grant writing and fundraising strategies.

Good News for the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre Project!

January 17, 2024
In a remarkable display of commitment to community and environmental stewardship, the Wickaninnish Inn has pledged an astounding $150,000 over the course of five years to support the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre. In a generous gesture, they have already contributed $40,000 as their inaugural installment.

Announcing the fall 2023 Culture Neighbourhood Small Grants!

December 6, 2023
We are excited to share this list of grass-roots community projects that received Culture Neighbourhood Small Grants (NSG) this past fall cycle. This has been our most successful cycle to date, with a total of 33 projects in the region, 15 projects for Clayoquot Sound NGS and 18 for Ahousaht NSG!