Maria Aurora Gan (Maryann), Ambassador 

Maria Gan was born and raised in the Philippines. She relocated in Canada in the late 2000’s where she built a life with her husband and daughter. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education majoring in mathematics from the University of Santo Thomas and has dedicated 30 years to teaching as her profession.

Her passion for education extends beyond the classroom – she finds deep fulfillment in shaping young minds and fostering a love for learning. This commitment led her to establish and operate a preschool, daycare and out-of-school care center in Calgary, where she has been nurturing children for over a decade. Beyond education, she also serves as a financial controller for a for-profit cooperative in Alberta, overseeing financial management, budgeting and strategic planning to ensure fiscal responsibility. 

She joined OPC out of a strong desire to give back to the community, particularly in areas that support children and education. Through volunteering and philanthropy, she is committed to contributing to meaningful initiatives that create opportunities for learning and growth.