Our People

Dr. Richard Burns has spent over 35 years in healthcare and has practiced dentistry in the Victoria area since 1993 in both group and solo practice settings. His first degree in Rehabilitation Medicine created a foundation of health care upon which he bases his approach to dentistry, where health, function and aesthetics co exist. Dr. Burns has lectured on comprehensive dental care – including diagnosis and treatment planning, dental implants and occlusion. He is a Graduate and Life Mentor of the Kois Centre in Seattle, Washington.

Dr. Sorensen began his dental career as a dental associate in Calgary. Thereafter, he founded his professional practice clinic in south east Calgary, the Sorensen Dental Group, which he has successfully operated and expanded through nine years. Dr. Sorensen possesses extensive contacts throughout the western Canadian dental sector.

Dr. Parchewsky founded multiple successful dental practices including the current practice Terra Dental Care in Calgary, in which he practices general dentistry, surgical dentistry and sleep apnea. Dr. Parchewsky is President of the Alberta Society for Dental Anesthesia, faculty member of the Zephyr Sleep Technologies and mentor/trainer for Dentsply Sirona Implants. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and Fellow of OMFS Montefiore College of Medicine.

With over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry, Stefan Horsky is passionate about leveraging innovative solutions and operational efficiencies to elevate and improve patient care in order to foster long term and sustainable results.

As a founder and leader with Passion Dental, Stefan has expanded its network of dental practices, offering partnership models to clinicians in their truest form, ensuring long term, sustainable success.  He is well known for his commitment to the core values of the company, and fostering a culture of excellence, frequently contributing to thought leadership in the DSO sector.  Prior to his role with Passion, he was President for VCA Canada, where he spearheaded initiatives to elevate patient care leading to industry leading organic growth.

Stefan holds a BA and an MBA from the University of Calgary and continues to serve on numerous community and business boards.  He is a proud and devoted husband and father to two active teenagers.

Leading Business Development at Passion Dental, Imran Gulam oversees strategic initiatives to expand and enhance the company's footprint in the rapidly evolving dental services industry. In order to position the company for sustained growth, his focus is the identification and execution of new business partnerships. 

With a decade of experience in the healthcare sector, Imran has a proven track record of driving revenue growth and fostering strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.  A graduate of the University of Calgary, he has a young active family, and enjoys golf when schedule permits, and sits on the board of KidSport Calgary. 

Morgan’s career began in finance as a CPA at Ernst & Young, (EY) one of the big four global accounting firms.  She spent many years in Mergers & Acquisitions having worked on countless files within consumer goods, healthcare, energy services, engineering, and manufacturing, preparing her well for her current role within Passion. 

Morgan now focuses on preparing relevant and thoughtful financial analysis, creating mutually beneficial partnership structures.  With her ability to simplify and articulate complex data to others, what she enjoys most in her role is educating future partners around the financial aspect of each structure, and how it serves to benefit their long-term goals.

Morgan is a CBV (Chartered Business Valuator) and a CPA.  She received her BA in Commerce (Accounting) from the University of Saskatchewan, graduating with great distinction. Outside of work, Morgan and her husband delight in spending time with their Bouvier, Bruno, and she is an accomplished equestrian rider.

Cam joined Passion Dental in early 2024, bringing years of experience in the dental industry, including senior roles in manufacturing, distribution, and dental practice M&A. As the DSO sector evolves, he takes pride in identifying partnership opportunities with dentists who align with Passion’s core values.

Outside of work, Cam has a soft spot for rescue dogs and enjoys playing hockey with friends. A graduate of the University of Manitoba with a degree in Politics and Economics, he’s also a proud supporter of the Jets and the Bombers.

A seasoned and self-proclaimed dental geek, Mike has a wealth of experience in the dental industry, initially working for the largest dental laboratory in Canada and later heading up the digital dentistry division for a large national dental supply company. 

Mike enjoys his role with Passion Dental Group in helping dentists discover a different path in dentistry where they can grow their practices by focusing on optimal patient care without the hassles of running a dental office. Outside of dentistry, Mike enjoys traveling, sports and fitness, and spending time with his family.

A skilled and accomplished dentist with over 25 years of experience in both clinical practice and operations, Dr. Appoo blends clinical expertise with a keen understanding of the business side of dentistry. A valued member of the executive team, he facilitates the company’s clinical operations to ensure optimal efficiencies and quality patient care.  

Dr. Appoo obtained his degree in 2000 from the University of British Columbia, Faculty of Dentistry and is a Fellow of the Pierre Fauchard Academy. He is the founder of Dentistry for a Cause and continues to practice clinical dentistry. Personally, he enjoys world travel with his wife and children. 

A graduate from and mentor with the Kois Center in Seattle, Dr. Farzad Hassani has been practicing dentistry since 1994 and has acted as Clinical Director for several clinics during his career. 

He now continues to practice at Academy Dental in Victoria, having partnered with Passion Dental several years ago and supports the company in optimizing clinics on the island. 

Outside of dentistry, Farzad has owned and operated several different businesses over his career. An avid soccer fan, he plays and coaches soccer and enjoys sailing around British Columbia.

Having grown up in Red Deer, Alberta, after graduating from the University of British Columbia, in 2015, Dr. Mike Mah went back to his native homeland, eager to contribute to the community that raised him. Education being an important pillar in Dr. Mah’s career, he also completed a master’s in management, which prepared him well for the role he now assumes with Passion Dental. 

He lectures extensively and mentors many clinicians on dental implants, IV sedation, and bite rehabilitation, among other life changing therapies. 

Dr. Mah is a proud father and enjoys travelling globally, as a family. 

Dr. Alex Rhee is passionate about providing the best possible dental care and as such ensures the Passion based clinics he supports in Ontario, continually excel in that area; this includes ensuring a positive patient journey and building a strong collaborative team.   

Alex is a Diplomate in International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI) and a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology. He served as a clinical instructor at University Toronto for number of years and currently acts as a mentor to dentists at the Kois Centre in Seattle, WA. He is also a Clinical instructor at the Facutly of Dentistry University of Toronto.

With over 32 years of experience as a Registered Dental Hygienist, Allison brings a wealth of knowledge, skill, and passion to every aspect of dental care. She has worked in a wide range of practice settings in dental clinics across Canada, allowing her to connect with diverse patient populations.

Deeply committed to advancing the profession of dental hygiene, Allison proudly served on the College of Registered Dental Hygienists of Alberta, playing a key role in upholding professional standards and advocating excellence in oral health care.

A certified DISC facilitator, Allison brings valuable insight into communication and team dynamics, helping to foster stronger, more collaborative dental teams. She has also completed advanced courses at the KOIS Center, further enhancing her ability to deliver evidence-based, comprehensive care.

Outside the clinic, Allison enjoys spending time with her family and embracing the beauty of Alberta’s outdoors. She believes in the importance of balance and well-being; principles she brings into her patient care every day.

As the EVP of People & Clinic Support, Daryl Verbeek brings over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry, with a proven track record of driving operational excellence and strategic growth. He is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of clinical services, operations, and ensuring that the organization’s objectives align with the overall mission of providing high-quality, patient-centered care.

Daryl has a strong background in leadership, having successfully managed large teams and implemented innovative strategies that improve patient satisfaction, enhance clinical efficiency, and drive profitability for partners and other key stakeholders. He possesses a deep understanding of the unique challenges within the DSO model and is passionate about building long-term, sustainable success.

Daryl holds a BA in Economics and Communications from the University of Winnipeg. He has served on numerous Boards over the past 20 years in both business and non-profit sectors. In his free time he loves get out to the mountains for skiing or a quiet day of fishing at his lake house.

With over 20 years of experience in the dental industry, Tracey Saunders is deeply passionate about elevating the patient experience and creating environments where patients and team members feel genuinely cared for. Her role focuses on supporting clinic growth, while fostering a positive, inspiring space for our teams to thrive in and for patients to feel at ease.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of her work is training and coaching team members, helping them unlock their potential and grow in confidence and skill. Seeing others succeed is what drives her.

Outside of work, it’s her daughters that inspire her daily. Her version of the happiest place on earth is time spent outdoors, with her dogs.

Supporting clinics in both the lower mainland and Vancouver Island, Christine delights in ensuring her teams have the tools to excel and advance their clinical and leadership skills. As a Certified Dental Assistant for many years, she recognizes what it takes to consistently offer patients the highest standards of care in a busy practice, and fostering a collaborative work environment for all team members, is critical to that success. 

On a personal level, Christine is a committed animal rights activist and frequently volunteers at several animal shelters. 

Michelle, a Certified Dental Assistant with over 15 years of experience in the dental industry, has been with the company since 2021, serving as one of Passion Dental’s first Regional Directors of Clinic Support, on Vancouver Island. 

Michelle is passionate about supporting her clinics in delivering the ultimate patient experience and derives great satisfaction supporting their needs and helping each member of the team further develop. 

After hours, Michelle enjoys spending time outdoors with her family.

A valued member of the Passion Dental Team, Mavis brings over 25 years of experience in the healthcare industry, most of which has been in dentistry, with a focus on the implant space, and more recently, dental transitions. 

Offering a deep understanding of the dental landscape, her current leadership role serves to help dental clinicians define their next phase of career and support the long-term success of each practice she works with. 

Mavis has, and continues to be active on many boards, such as Women in Dentistry, Women in DSO, and The Borna Meisami Foundation.   

Anjelica started her career as a Registered Dental Assistant after graduating from S.I.A.S.T., in Regina, SK, in 2008, later transitioning into a managerial role, gaining extensive experience and success in leadership.

As a Regional Director, her top priority is to inspire and support her team in reaching their highest potential while fostering professional growth within their clinics. Since joining Passion Dental Group in 2021, Anjelica has appreciated working alongside like-minded peers and being part of a mission-driven team.

Outside of work, Anjelica is an active volunteer in her children’s activities, and as a family, they enjoy curling, travelling and all the great outdoors has to offer.

With over 15 years of experience in the dental industry, Erin Hastings has been a valued member of Passion Dental Group since 2022.  She brings a unique blend of operational insight and strategic thinking to ensure the success of each clinic and the larger organization.

Having worked in various facets of dentistry since 2008, Erin excels at bridging the gap between day-to-day operations and the broader goals of the business. Her ability to develop cohesive, high-performing teams and create a positive clinic environment drives operational excellence and helps Passion Dental Group continue to grow and thrive.

When she’s not working, Erin enjoys spending time at the family acreage near Gull Lake, AB with her boyfriend Taylor, and their golden retriever named Douglas. 

With over 3 decades in the dental industry, much of Shelley’s career has been spent in a leadership capacity. With the variety of professional development offered by Passion Dental, what Shelley finds the most rewarding aspect of her role is coaching team members, and watching the growth that occurs as a team comes together collaboratively, leading to the delivery of exceptional dental care for their patients.   

Born and bred in Alberta, Shelley loves the great outdoors, and special time spent with her grandson and Bernese Mountain dog.

With over two decades of experience in finance, and a proven track record of driving operational efficiency, Claudette plays a key role in guiding the company’s financial vision, ensuring sustainable growth, and value to all shareholders. 

She oversees accounting, financial planning and analysis, investor relations, and risk management for the company. Claudette has built a high performing team, fostering a culture of service and integrity. She holds a CMA/CPA from the Society of Management Accountants of Alberta, and received an Honours Degree in Business/Accounting, from the University of Prince Edward Island. In her personal time, Claudette likes to travel and work on being the best ‘boy mom’ ever.

Evan is a seasoned financial executive with over 15 years of experience in corporate finance, financial strategy, and capital management across diverse industries. As the Vice President of Finance at Passion Dental, he oversees corporate finance, financial planning and analysis, reporting, and stakeholder communications, ensuring alignment with shareholder, debtholder, and regulatory requirements.

Before joining Passion Dental, Evan was a senior finance leader at Osum Oil Sands Corp., where he managed corporate finance, capital structuring, and financial reporting through periods of rapid expansion, market volatility, and ultimately a strategic corporate sale.

Evan is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA-CA) and holds a Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcc) degree from the University of Saskatchewan. He enjoys running, hockey and golf, along with hiking and skiing in the Rockies, with his wife and two children. Evan is an avid supporter of the world’s greatest sports team, the Montreal Canadiens.

Byron supports Passion management by providing strategic legal counsel to ensure operational integrity and long-term viability for the company and its partners, and helps Passion navigate the unique challenges faced by a young DSO. A seasoned legal professional, he previously practiced corporate commercial law at a national law firm with a focus on private M&A, private equity transactions and corporate governance. 

Passionate about his community in his spare time, he is a board member for the iCAN for Kids Foundation and serves as a sessional instructor with the Faculty of Law at the University of Calgary. Byron holds a law degree from Western University. Despite his current place of residence, he is (and always will be) a staunch Edmonton Oilers fan.     

Having worn many hats in her career, Sarah Cox has led marketing, sales, and operations teams within many of her roles. While the majority have been in the dental industry, she also gained valuable experience in operations and marketing working in a leadership role, at Vancouver International Airport (YVR.) 

Sarah now focuses on the corporate side of marketing for PDG, building visibility for the brand, notably Passion’s unique partnership model, while supporting sustainable growth across the organization’s expanding network of dental practices. She thoroughly enjoys being part of a committed group of professionals who all offer a strong sense of community and aligned values. Outside of work Sarah enjoys tennis, golf and unique foreign travel with her husband.     

Aaron is passionate about introducing innovative, data-driven strategies to drive growth. He believes in putting the customer at the center of the experience and building engaging, relationship-enhancing experiences driven by data and measured for performance. 

He is well versed in building teams and working cross-functionally to develop marketing strategies that balance content-driven awareness with performance marketing tactics. With significant hands-on experience, Aaron leads CRM, analytics, and the teams responsible for branding and creative across all clinics. While Aaron is employed by Passion’s private equity partner, Light Bay Capital, Passion is grateful to have him on loan given his vast experience and unique skill set.