Meet Our Board of Directors

Dr. Bobby Yanagawa MD, PhD, FRCSC

FOUNDER, DIRECTOR

Dr. Bobby Yanagawa is a leading and internationally recognized cardiac surgeon who operates and collaborates around the world. With a deep commitment to clinical excellence, surgical innovation, and shaping the future of cardiovascular care in Canada, he currently serves as:

  • Division Head, Division of Cardiac Surgery, St. Michael's Hospital

  • Program Director, Division of Cardiac Surgery, University of Toronto

  • Associate Professor, Department of Surgery & Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology

  • SURE General Contractors Inc. Professorship in Infective Endocarditis

Throughout his career, Dr. Yanagawa has mentored countless medical students and residents, many of whom credit him with opening doors they never thought possible. But over time, he saw a troubling pattern: while talent was everywhere, opportunity was not. Too many brilliant, motivated young people—especially from racialized and underserved communities—were excluded from the path to medicine due to barriers they had no control over. He understood the downstream impact this had on patient health outcomes and the overall strength of the healthcare system.

Operation Heart was born out of that realization. Driven by the fact that a stronger healthcare system must reflect the people it serves, Dr. Yanagawa founded the organization to help bridge the gap—for the future of medicine, and for every patient who deserves care from someone who understands them.

He continues to lead with the same vision: that by investing in young people, we also invest in a healthier, more compassionate Canada.

Andy Kam, CPA, CA

DIRECTOR

Andy Kam is a seasoned financial executive with over two decades of international leadership experience in high-stakes, capital-intensive industries. A Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA), Andy has built a distinguished career overseeing large-scale infrastructure projects, driving business transformations, and executing multi-billion-dollar financial strategies across North America, the Middle East, and Asia.

Currently the Finance Director at NEOM—a groundbreaking urban development in Saudi Arabia—Andy leads the financial strategy for NEOM’s Mobility sector, managing an annual capital expenditure of US$3 billion and lifecycle investments exceeding US$60 billion. His leadership is pivotal in shaping the sector’s business case, attracting private investment, and optimizing infrastructure phasing to ensure long-term financial sustainability.

Prior to NEOM, Andy served as Chief Financial Officer for several global divisions of Hutchison Ports, where he successfully negotiated major infrastructure deals, including a US$750 million greenfield port development in Egypt and US$800 million in strategic concessions. Under his financial stewardship, these entities achieved record-breaking profits, significant capacity growth, and international recognition for operational excellence—even in high-inflation and volatile currency environments.

Earlier in his career, Andy held senior finance roles at Vistra Group, where he led a successful private equity exit valued at over US$1 billion, and at major Canadian corporations including Toronto Hydro, Rogers Communications, and Deloitte. His expertise spans IPO preparation, corporate tax implementation, global treasury systems, and M&A.

Andy brings to Operation Heart not only financial acumen, but also a deep commitment to equity and global development. His ability to manage complex, high-value projects with both precision and vision makes him an invaluable asset in guiding the organization’s mission to transform the future of cardiac surgery for underserved communities.

Marsha Van Weichen

DIRECTOR

TBD

Ly Luu           

DIRECTOR

From Refugee to Philanthropic Builder

Ky Luu is a Vietnamese immigrant whose journey exemplifies resilience, hard work, and community commitment. He arrived in Canada at the age of 8 with his parents and four siblings, settling in Toronto. The family lived in Toronto Community Housing and relied on food banks to make ends meet.

Starting from modest beginnings, Ky worked his way up in the construction industry. In the 1990s, he founded SURE General Contractors, a company that has grown under his leadership to employ 22 people and generate $50 million in annual revenue.

Despite his business success, Ky has never forgotten his roots. He is a dedicated donor of the Toronto Food Bank, giving back to the organization that once helped his family. He also funds the SURE General Contractors Professorship in Infective Endocarditis at St. Michael’s Hospital, demonstrating his commitment to advancing healthcare and supporting his community in meaningful ways.

Ky Luu’s story is one of perseverance, entrepreneurial spirit, and giving back—transforming personal hardship into opportunity and hope for others.

Work With Us

Help shape the future of cardiac care.

Whether you're a medical professional eager to mentor the next generation, or someone who simply believes in building a stronger, more effective healthcare system, there's a place for you at Operation Heart. We rely on the passion and generosity of people like you to:

  • Mentor aspiring cardiac surgeons from underserved communities

  • Lead or support training workshops, mock interviews, and hands-on learning experiences

  • Volunteer your time or skills to help us run programs, events, and outreach initiatives

  • Champion the cause in your own networks and communities

You don’t need to be a surgeon to make a difference—you just need to believe in a future where talent has a chance to rise, and where cardiac care reaches everyone who needs it.

Ready to get involved?