She was born in Peru and raised in Chile, where she discovered her passion for engineering and the environment. But political unrest in Latin America made it difficult to pursue her dreams. Canada offered something different—safety, opportunity, and the freedom to grow.
✨ Starting Over
Arriving in Quebec, Rosa didn’t just study—she excelled. She earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering at McGill University, mastering the science of water treatment, pollution control, and sustainable development.
Her work wasn’t just academic. She rolled up her sleeves to tackle real-world crises—oil spills, industrial contamination, and the challenges of climate change.
🌱 A Voice for the Planet
Rosa became one of Canada’s leading experts in environmental engineering. She taught at Université Laval, mentored future scientists, and published groundbreaking research. Her expertise caught the attention of leaders across the country.
In 2016, she was appointed to the Canadian Senate, becoming one of the few immigrant women—and the first Latina—to bring her voice to Parliament. There, she championed issues of sustainability, climate justice, and the inclusion of underrepresented voices.
❤️ Why Her Story Inspires
Rosa Gálvez’s journey is more than academic brilliance.
It’s proof that immigrants don’t just adapt—they lead.
That science can fuel policy.
And that one woman, from Latin America to Canada’s Senate, can shape the future of an entire nation.