Real estate executive
Age 38
What career highlight are you most proud of?
Making the decision to bet on myself and leave a partner role at a fantastic company and start B.C.’s valuations and advisory division at Avison Young. The best part was building a team that understood the vision, worked hard and genuinely enjoyed each other’s company. This move taught me a big lesson—with hard work, the right people and conviction, you can build anything.
What has been your toughest business or professional decision to date?
Leaving my valuations and advisory team to step into the role of managing director of Avison Young Vancouver was one of the toughest decisions. The team’s success and the prospect of stepping into the unknown made it impossible to pass up the opportunity to lead on a larger scale.
How do you lead?
Leadership starts with trust. It’s about recognizing each team member’s strengths and pushing them to grow in ways that contribute to the bigger picture. When everyone’s individual progress aligns with the shared vision, that’s when real momentum builds. The goal isn’t just about hitting milestones—it’s about getting there together and building excellence along the way. Seeing the team grow and thrive while working toward a collective goal is what makes the journey worthwhile.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in business?
Slow down and bring people along for the journey. Consistently communicating the vision is essential to advancing the mission and achieving success together.
Best piece of advice ever received?
Trust your gut.
What is your definition of success?
Success, both personally and professionally, is about staying aligned with my values. Milestones can be reached and tough decisions made in countless ways, but if the process doesn’t reflect your core principles, it feels hollow. True success comes from knowing I did my best while upholding my values, regardless of the outcome. Leading with integrity ensures long-term satisfaction, even if the results differ from initial expectations. When decisions are grounded in authenticity, the journey itself becomes meaningful, driving both personal fulfillment and professional growth.
What are you most passionate about outside of work?
Outside of work, I’m passionate about connecting with people and gaining new perspectives. COVID made it clear that I thrive on meaningful conversations and human connection. Travel has been a key part of this, giving me the chance to step out of my bubble and better understand different viewpoints. In today’s polarized world, I’m more committed than ever to learning from others and broadening my perspective.
What’s left to accomplish?
Master the French and Spanish languages, see the world, meet someone from every country and, one day, run for office.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or acknowledge?
A heartfelt thank you to my biggest supporters, my husband, family and amazing friends. I’m also deeply grateful to the mentors who saw my potential and pushed me out of my comfort zone. Their generosity and guidance have reinforced the value of surrounding yourself with the right community—one that challenges and supports you every step of the way.
A personal motto, favourite phrase or saying that resonates with you?
The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts
A philanthropic, charitable or community cause or organization you support?
CREW, VGH UBC Hospital Foundation
What do you do to unwind, relax or de-stress?
Sauna, seawall walks, reading fiction
Favourite place in the province?
The seawall in Vancouver
Favourite restaurant(s)?
Chancho
A book or podcast you would recommend?
Bold Kindness, Cathy Thorpe
What is your best habit?
Early riser—there is nothing more special than waking up before the rest of the city
A B.C. business leader you admire?
Too many to count, but for me, Avtar Bains, Cory Wright and Bill Tucker
Tell us one surprising or little-known fact about yourself.
I come from a long line of baker entrepreneurs, starting with the Toppazzini Bakery (1906 to the mid-1970s) and Toppers Pizza (1982-present)
