IVAR MENDEZ was born in Bolivia but has spent most of his life in Canada. A neurosurgeon and neuroscientist, he lives in the prairie city of Saskatoon, where he serves as the Fred H. Wigmore Professor and Chairman of Surgery at the University of Saskatchewan, as well as the Unified Head of Surgery for the Province of Saskatchewan. He is internationally known for his work in cell transplantation for Parkinson’s disease and the use of remote-presence robotics for virtual care.Ivar Mendez is the president and founder of the Ivar Mendez International Foundation (IMIF). Its mission is to improve the nutrition, health and education of children in the poorest regions of Bolivia so they can reach their full potential. In addition to writing several books, he is also a photographer and sculptor, and has exhibited his works in Bolivia, Canada, and the United States. As a scientist and artist, he believes that science and art can be synergised to promote creativity and innovation. As a humanitarian, he has established school breakfast programs, dental care programs, and educational programs in remote communities in the Bolivian Andes. Ivar Mendez was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2022.