Co-founder and medical director, Restore Sports Medicine
Age 38
What career highlight are you most proud of?
I have dreamed of becoming a doctor since I was a child, so completing my medical training and getting to start my career was a huge milestone. I was fortunate to be the youngest member of my medical school class, and it has been a true honour and privilege to serve others through my profession. I am grateful for the relationships I have built with my patients. Journeying with them through their health challenges and witnessing their strength and resilience have been inspiring and humbling.
What has been your toughest business or professional decision to date?
When the clinic I was working at closed, and I found myself at a crossroads—whether to join another clinic or take the leap to open our own clinic with a colleague. At the time, we had no business experience—something that’s not covered in medical training—but we were fortunate to have the support of amazing husbands and invaluable business mentors who helped guide us through the process. The advice and encouragement we have received have been crucial in helping us navigate that pivotal moment.
How do you lead?
I lead by serving others. I believe that effective leadership comes from supporting and empowering the people around you, whether it’s my staff, colleagues, patients or community. By fostering a cohesive environment of trust, collaboration and respect, I strive to lead by example, encouraging others to grow and succeed alongside me.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in business?
As a people pleaser, I have had to learn that it is not possible to please everyone, and it is more important to align my decisions with my core mission and values.
Best piece of advice ever received?
Throughout my life, my mom has always told me to “dream big and aim high.” Her belief in me has been a constant source of motivation. Whether it was sitting through my piano competitions, cheering me on at tournaments or driving me to important exams, she always made me feel like I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. She instilled in me the confidence to take risks and try new things without the fear of failure.
What is your definition of success?
To me, success is about living a life aligned with my values, making a positive impact on those around me and continuously growing—both personally and professionally. Not only is success about accomplishments, but also about treating people with genuine kindness, finding fulfillment in the journey and helping others reach their full potential along the way.
What are you most passionate about outside of work?
Embracing the chaos and mess with my three young kids and husband.
What’s left to accomplish?
We want to keep growing our clinic while continuing to deliver exceptional care and staying at the forefront of emerging treatments and technologies. There is continuous learning and research required to stay up to date with our growing field of medicine. We are also collaborating with UBC to develop a curriculum for training medical students and residents. I am looking forward to when my children get a bit older so we can travel and serve on international medical missions together.
Anything else you would you like to share with us?
My father, who is a physician, inspired me to want to be a doctor since I was a child. I have fond memories biking with him to do rounds at the hospital and making house calls. There was usually ice cream involved. I am grateful for the way he instilled in me the importance of education and for giving me a clear career goal to strive for throughout my life.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or acknowledge?
I am grateful to God for the many blessings in my life. Thank you to my husband, Kevin, for all his support and love. To my mom and dad, for always believing in me and providing opportunities. To my sisters, Vanessa and Beverly, for all their encouragement. Thank you to my business partner, Dr. Tanya Cabrita, for her passion and inspiration, and to her husband, Alan, for his dedication and invaluable support. I am grateful for my hardworking colleagues and staff, loyal friends, as well as all the wonderful mentors and teachers I have had in my career.
A personal motto, favourite phrase or saying that resonates with you?
Treat others the way you would want to be treated
A philanthropic, charitable or community cause or organization you support?
Covenant House
What do you do to unwind, relax or de-stress?
Going for runs always helps clear my mind; I also enjoy crafting
Favourite place in the province?
I fell in love with the Sunshine Coast when I spent did my “rural rotation” there during medical school
Favourite restaurant(s)?
Zarak
A book or podcast you would recommend?
Focus on the Family podcast—I love listening to them during my commutes to get practical advice on raising children and strengthening relationships
What is your best habit?
I am always looking to see how I can improve and make things better
A B.C. business leader you admire?
My grandparents were immigrant small business owners and I admire their resilience. My 100-year-old grandmother lives with us and we have a special bond
Tell us one surprising or little-known fact about yourself.
I was a concert pianist, and while I certainly did not enjoy practising, I am grateful for completing my music degree
