Rizwaan Abbas
Archaeologist, Cultural Resource Manager, Museum Curator
About Rizwaan Abbas
Rizwaan Abbas is a first-generation Canadian of Indo-Fijian descent, born in Sparwood, British Columbia, in 1977.
He holds an Associate's Degree from Douglas College, a BA in Archaeology from SFU, an MSc in Paleoanthropology and Paleolithic Archaeology from University College London (UK), and a PSc in Collections Management from UVic.
With over two decades of experience in cultural resource management, he serves as an archaeologist for the Semiahmoo First Nation. Abbas is a Director of Heritage BC and the Indo-Fijian Cultural Society of Canada. He is also a member of the Historical Discrimination against People of South Asian Descent Advisory Committee and the South Asian Canadian Museum Engagement Committee in Vancouver.
He was a guest editor of BC History Magazine, curated the 'Surrey's Pocket of Paradise' exhibit at the Museum of Surrey, and authored a chapter in 'The Social History of South Asians in British Columbia.' His work emphasizes accurate representation of the Indo-Fijian community, including both Hindu and Islamic faiths, and incorporates Indigenous Fijian tapa designs.
References & Credits
Image Credits
- Photo 1: Photo courtesy of Heritage BC
- Photo 2: Personal collection
Academic Background
BA in Archaeology (SFU), MSc in Paleoanthropology and Paleolithic Archaeology (UCL), PSc in Collections Management (UVic).
Key Roles and Contributions
Archaeologist for Semiahmoo First Nation, Director of Heritage BC, Director of Indo-Fijian Cultural Society of Canada, curated 'Surrey's Pocket of Paradise' exhibit, authored chapter in 'The Social History of South Asians in British Columbia'.