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Co-founder, HeartLife Foundation
Age 39
What career highlight are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of launching the Canadian and Global Patient and Caregiver Charter of Rights through HeartLife. This charter, endorsed by over 50 organizations globally and translated into 17 languages, laid the foundation for the Canadian Heart Function Alliance, uniting more than 200 researchers and 60 patient partners on national and global projects and raising over $27 million to advance heart health. Our charter and subsequent policy framework led to the introduction of Bill S-284 in the Senate—a groundbreaking national act focused on heart failure, driving policy change and improving patient care across Canada.
What has been your toughest business or professional decision to date?
Leaving a stable career in finance to fully commit to HeartLife and heart health advocacy. Moving away from a well-defined path meant embracing uncertainty, both financially and professionally, but the mission to improve heart failure care and patient rights outweighed the risks. This choice allowed me to co-found HeartLife, launch our charter and collaborate with the Canadian Heart Function Alliance. While challenging, this transition has led to meaningful impact in heart health advocacy, fulfilling work and progress toward policy changes that improve lives across Canada.
How do you lead?
I lead by example, immersing myself in every facet of the organization to understand its challenges and strengths. Leadership, to me, is about amplifying those around me—supporting and encouraging my team to reach their full potential. I strive to bring out the best in each person and work collaboratively to achieve our shared mandate. By fostering an environment of learning and empowerment, I believe we can drive greater impact and create a resilient, mission-driven organization.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in business?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned in business is to never be the smartest person in the room. Success comes from surrounding yourself with experts and leveraging their unique skills and perspectives. By bringing in knowledgeable partners and collaborators, you can amplify your impact, make better decisions and drive the organization further than any individual could alone. Embracing diverse expertise not only strengthens the work but also fosters an environment of continuous learning and growth.
Best piece of advice ever received?
Keep a balance. To be successful in business, it’s essential to maintain balance in all aspects of life and build a strong support network. This foundation helps you stay grounded, resilient and focused, reminding you that you don’t have to do it all alone.
What is your definition of success?
My definition of success is always evolving, and honestly, I’ll let you know when I get there. For now, success means making a meaningful impact, learning constantly and building something that truly helps others. It’s less about a final destination and more about the progress, purpose and positive change along the way.
What are you most passionate about outside of work?
Outside of work, I’m most passionate about spending time with my partner Jessica and our 15-month-old daughter, Mara. I also love to travel and take every opportunity to explore new places. And, of course, there’s my 1969 Pontiac Firebird.
What’s left to accomplish?
At HeartLife, Jillianne and I are always asking, “What’s next?” There’s still much to accomplish—our goal is to make heart failure a national priority and drive legislation for a comprehensive national strategy for heart failure and cardiovascular disease.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or acknowledge?
I’d like to thank my partner, Jessica—her tireless commitment and unwavering support drive me every day to be better. She’s truly my biggest champion. I’m also deeply grateful to my co-founder, Jillianne, whose perseverance and resilience inspire me daily. Thanks to my family—mom, dad, sisters, extended family and friends—who always believed in me, with dad sparking my journey into business. To the HeartLife community across Canada, I do this work for you. Special thanks to Barinder and Ash, the incredible individuals behind the scenes, whose efforts continually push me to excel. My health-care team have my deepest appreciation. So many have shaped my life, and I’m endlessly grateful to each of you.
A personal motto, favourite phrase or saying that resonates with you?
If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together
A philanthropic, charitable or community cause or organization you support?
Aside from our own (HeartLife)—BC Children’s Hospital, The Ronald McDonald House Charity and St. Paul’s Hospital
What do you do to unwind, relax or de-stress?
I unwind by golfing and spending quality time with my daughter and partner—though daughter’s not on the golf course with me just yet!
Favourite place in the province?
Granville Island, hands down
Favourite restaurant(s)?
Di Beppe for the lasagna, Sushi Loku for aburi oshi sushi
A book or podcast you would recommend?
Atomic Habits by James Clear and The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.
What is your best habit?
My best habit is starting each day with The Daily Stoic and completing my five-minute journal. This routine keeps me grounded, focused and reflective
A B.C. business leader you admire?
It’s hard to choose just one B.C. leader—Anthony von Mandl, Peter Dhillon and Wally Oppal all inspire through impactful leadership
Tell us one surprising or little-known fact about yourself.
I’ve travelled to 36 countries, with a goal of reaching 40 before I turn 40. Oh, and I have had a heart transplant
