Dr. Tom-Harley Poon grew up in Edmonton and was born into a large, Chinese-Canadian family. His hyphenated first name is a tribute to his great-grandfather, Tom, and his grandfather, Harley. Family and tradition is important to Dr. Poon that is why he has named both of his son’s in a similar manner. Dr. Poon received his undergraduate degree at the University of Alberta and his Doctor of Optometry at The New England College of Optometry in Boston. Upon graduation in 2008, the school honoured him with the F. Dow Smith Award, which is presented to students that demonstrate exceptional leadership potential. This award recognized his hard work to create and establish the Canadian club at the school which addresses student issues and interests specific to Canadians.