Future Focus Podcast is exclusively sponsored by Eye Recommend.
EyeCare Business Canada, a division of VuePoint IDS, is excited to announce the upcoming launch of Future Focus: The NextGEN OD Canada Podcast, a new podcast series designed specifically for young Optometrists and Canadian Optometry students, studying in Canada and abroad.
The podcast, set to debut later in September 2024, will be hosted by two highly respected young voices in Canadian Optometry, Drs. Amrit Bilkhu and Alexa Hecht.
This podcast series will delve into a wide range of topics that matter most to optometry students, including career paths, job opportunities, board exam preparation, and other timely subjects based on insights from a recent survey of Canadian Optometry students.
With monthly episodes, the NextGEN OD Canada Podcast will feature guest experts and thought leaders who will share valuable advice and experiences relevant to the next generation of Canadian optometrists.
“We’re thrilled to provide a dedicated space for optometry students to explore their future career opportunities and gain practical insights. Our goal is to support students as they navigate the path from their studies to becoming successful optometrists.”
Dr. Amrit Bilkhu, co-host, NextGEN OD Canada Podcast
Co-host Dr. Alexa Hecht echoed the sentiment: “We want to ensure that every student has access to information that helps them thrive, from board exam preparation to finding the right career fit. We’re excited to connect students with the resources they need.”
The 2024 NextGEN OD Canada Podcast series is exclusively sponsored by Eye Recommend, a leading network of independent optometry clinics across Canada. Eye Recommend supports independent optometrists by providing top-tier technology, resources, and services to help clinics grow and thrive in today’s competitive market.
Lee Raffey, CEO of Eye Recommend, commented, “We are proud to sponsor a podcast that focuses on the development and success of future optometrists in Canada. Eye Recommend is committed to the growth of independent optometry. We see this as a perfect opportunity to invest in the next generation.”
“The NextGEN OD Canada Podcast is a modern and engaging platform to inspire and guide Canadian optometry students. We are grateful for the partnership with Eye Recommend, as it aligns perfectly with our shared commitment to nurture young optometrists from the start of their careers.”
David Pietrobon, Publisher, Eye Care Business Canada
Future Focus: NextGEN OD Canada Podcast will be available through major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Blurberry, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Additionally, the podcast and summaries of each episode will be accessible on the NextGEN OD website and will be distributed via the NextGEN and Optik XTRA e-newsletters, ensuring easy access for students and professionals alike.
With its rich content and high-profile guests, the NextGEN OD Canada Podcast will be an essential resource for students preparing for their careers in optometry.
For media inquiries or more information, please contact: admin@vuepoint.ca
Eye Care Business Canada and NextGEN OD Canada are divisions of VuePoint IDS Inc. A 100% Canadian owned eye care and eyewear media and services business.
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The jury has awarded the SILMO d’Or prizes … Here are the 2024 winners:
TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION IN EYEWEAR
OOmade with “OOmade SAV 3D” (FR)
OOmade has invented the concept of courtesy frames thanks to its patented 3D printing solution. OOmade has developed a 3D software platform and provides a 3D printer, enabling a broken frame to be repaired in a few minutes, in front of the customer. The frames are made from bio-sourced and recyclable materials. Opticians can thus offer a premium, differentiating service. This 3D after-sales solution revolutionizes the in-store customer experience.
TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION IN EYEWEAR > Connected Products
EssilorLuxottica with “Ray-Ban Meta with IA” (FR)
Ray-Ban Meta, the new generation of smart glasses born from the partnership with Meta, will be enhanced with artificial intelligence as of October 2024. These glasses of a new kind allow users to stay connected, capture life moments, and consume digital content while offering visual correction and protection with Ray-Ban’s iconic style. Thanks to AI, they can identify what users see and assist them in their daily lives, making technology as simple as wearing glasses.
CHILDREN
Lafont with “Roudoudou” (FR)
Lafont, a specialist in pediatric eyewear, presents its first model specifically designed for premature infants. Roudoudou has been developed specifically for premature babies, with dimensions and geometry adapted to their needs. The frame is injection-molded and made from a bio-based material derived from castor oil. The optical and morphological challenges of premature infants led us to start from scratch. The frame is intended to be worn permanently from the very first months.
SPORT
Out Of with “Acuity” (ITA)
Acuity is able to correct an extremely wide range of visual disorders, offering unprecedented clarity of vision without sacrificing weight or field of view. Acuity’s ophthalmic lenses milled from solid are at the heart of its revolutionary design. In contrast to the standard on the market, Acuity’s ophthalmic lenses are milled from a single block of material, assuring precise and uniform correction of visual impairment and maximum performance.
VISION
Transitions Optical with “Transitions® Gen S™” (FR)
Transitions® GEN S™ revolutionizes ophthalmic optics with the first dynamic lens that is ultra-reactive to light. Combining protection, visual performance, and aesthetics, it adapts to all lighting conditions. Its innovative design offers optimized kinetics and darkening levels, as well as vibrant colors. Clinically validated, it redefines prescription lens standards for optimal everyday wear.
MATERIAL / EQUIPMENT
Eyesoft with “Check Lenscape” (FR)
Eyesoft is a pioneering French company in using virtual reality and eye-tracking to offer innovative visual examination solutions. Eyesoft Check Lenscape is an application with two key features. Check detects binocular vision disorders, assesses visual fatigue risks, and enhances accommodative performance. Lenscape simulates lens geometries, tints, and polarized lenses.
MicroUnit with “Lona 5” (FR)
Lona 5 is eyewear design and manufacturing software. Its particularity is a downstream design which simplifies handling and makes the software accessible to anyone without design knowledge. Lona 5 also allows you to obtain and check the manufacturing program on CNC in a simple click, without any special skills.
LOW VISION
Accessolutions with “VoiSee” Reber Informatik (FR/SUI)
VoiSee is an innovative visual aid device for the visually impaired, designed for both near and far vision. VoiSee is an electronic monocular that is placed in front of one eye, allowing users to magnify images, read text, freeze the image, and adjust visual settings such as contrast with simple controls. Its lightweight and ultra-compact design allows for easy portability and one-handed use.
OPTICAL FRAME “LABELS”
Nina Ricci with “SNR403 col. 7G6” De Rigo Vision (ITA)
Oversized acetate glasses with an iconic vintage shape. In this model, past and present merge thanks to the geometric temples that balance the rounded front. The iconic grosgrain motif is visible on the inside and the Nina Ricci lettering logo adorns the left temple. Available in this shaded color variant, inspired by the iconic Nina Ricci model worn by Jacqueline Kennedy.
SUNGLASSES “LABELS ”
Zilli with “ZI65109 C01” Grosfilley France (FR)
The ZILLI frame features grained leather inserts on the bridge and temples, highlighted by gold titanium. It is exceptionally soft and light, with integrated flex hinges for perfect adaptability.
SUNGLASSES “EYEWEAR DESIGNER”
Prodesign with “Censur” (DNK)
CENSUR is the result of an internal design session where rules were set aside, allowing creativity to push the limits of traditional eyewear design. Born from free-flowing ideas and the playful exploration of geometrical shapes and clean lines, CENSUR is a testament to unbounded creativity. A thin sheet construction is cleverly seen throughout the design, adding depth and dimension to this sculptural eyewear. CENSUR proves that design doesn’t have to know any boundaries.
OPTICAL FRAME “EYEWEAR DESIGNER”
Pierre Eyewear with “Lady” (FR)
Man acetate frame
PRIX SPÉCIAL DU JURY
PARASITE DESIGN with “MORPH Alpha” (FR)
The “MORPH alpha – Clara Besnard” is a frame made entirely of spare parts and old stock sourced from the workshops of the futuristic eyewear brand Parasite and the vintage optical shop Bidules. The artist and designer Clara Besnard handcrafted the MORPH1 as a tentacular system, with its main roots formed from a Parasite MORPH V01 (2003) and secondary roots made of acetate temples and fronts from the 1970s-80s.
PRIX RSE
SKANS (DNK)
The winning company was chosen for its minimalist approach aimed at slowing down the consumption of eyewear: timeless frames that are only launched when new to reduce the need for renewal, timeless packaging (often without printing), to limit the need for redesigns, the availability of identical spare parts for all models, or on-demand production to avoid overstocking… The company also demonstrated an approach that takes into account the entire lifecycle of the frames, which are, for example, made from a single material (100% stainless steel, including nose pads) to maximize recycling.
VANNI
Vanni The first Italian company in the eyewear industry to become a “Società Benefit” (the Italian equivalent of a Company with a Mission) in 2021, Vanni has demonstrated its ability to monitor its social, environmental and societal CSR performance in terms of figures and best practices. The company even goes so far as to have its employees rate its performance in various areas (via a survey). 100% of VANNI’s staff have taken training modules on sustainable development (between 5 and 22h of training per employee). In 2023/2024, the company carried out an internal reorganization guided by an organizational psychologist to define each person’s roles and responsibilities more clearly and respond to employees’ needs. Particularly rooted in its local area, Vanni supports numerous local organizations in Turin and Piedmont. A Cradle to Gate LCA also enabled the company to make a number of adjustments to limit the environmental impact of its products.
Crafted from luxurious acetate, “Iris” honours Ms. Apfel’s bold style with distinctive round frames. A visionary, she saw the world uniquely, embracing maximalism and dramatic specs. Her motto: “More is more, and less is a bore.” These frames, featuring Corrine Hunt’s gold heron motif, blend fashion and Indigenous art.
We believe that art is transformative, and that eyewear can be the canvas to share stories and art from around the world. AYA Eyewear was first launched in 2009 in collaboration with renowned First Nations Artist Corrine Hunt and has continued to flourish and grow every year.
We are committed to the details and realize that beautiful design takes time, precision, and attention, so we don’t cut corners. We stand by our product. We treat our artists as our partners and make sure that their stories and art are always shared in the most heartfelt authentic way.
We take pride in our service and seek opportunities to give back to the communities we serve and the artist’s charities of choice.
AYA Eyewear is truly a brand that stands out from the crowd and is loved by Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike.
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Industry, gathered in Paris at SILMO 2024, the 2nd largest trade optical fair in Europe – with 31,300 international visitors from 42 countries – just awarded Transitions® GEN STM with a Silmo d’or in Vision Category.
The jury recognized the superiority of the new ultra dynamic lenses Transitions® GEN STM.
Nicolas Barbier, Global Head of Transitions Optical, declared: “Transitions® Gen S™ is the result of over 30 years of passion & commitment for light responsive lenses. Over the past five years, our research & development teams have been pushing the boundaries of every dimension of a dynamic lens to create a modern solution, leaving static for dynamic, to meet all eyeglass wearers’ expectations. It is a giant leap of technology and I am very proud of our teams and thankful for all the support and insights we have received from our customers for this collective achievement. I would like to thank warmly the Silmo d’Or jury for their recognition”.
THE NEW STANDARD FOR PRESCRIPTION LENSES
Transitions® GEN S™ introduces a new standard in eyewear, offering a dynamic, adaptive experience that aligns with the shifting demands of modern life. By advancing light adaptive technology, these lenses enhance performance, delivering unmatched adaptability, speed, and aesthetics, making them the perfect solution for today’s wearers seeking more than just vision correction.
Responsive – Time is no longer a constraint with Transitions® GEN S™. Engineered for seamless adaptation, these lenses darken in seconds[1] upon exposure to sunlight and fade back with unprecedented speed. This ultra-responsive behavior ensures that wearers can navigate their day with a newfound freedom from adaptation, solidifying Transitions® GEN S™ as the fastest dark lens in the clear-to-dark category[2].
Beautiful – Colors have never been so vibrant. With Transitions® GEN S™, wearers are invited to express their unique style through a selection of 8 vibrant colors, including the striking new addition of Transitions ® GEN S™Ruby. This rich palette provides infinite pairing possibilities for personalization and style while delivering an unmatched performance. Dark and vibrant under sunlight and clearer than ever indoors[3], Transitions® GEN S™ lenses deliver the promise of dynamic vision with style, making them a compelling choice for all.
Seamless – Going beyond vision correction, Transitions® GEN S™ integrates into a wearer’s lifestyle, supporting vision even under challenging lighting conditions. The lenses work in perfect harmony with the eyes, supporting natural adaptive processes and ensuring a smooth, effortless visual experience. This synergy brings about a new vision experience, offering better vision quality, faster[4].
GIANT LEAP OF TECHNOLOGY
Transitions® GEN STM is the result of a five-year research journey in photochromic technology. With over 450 prototypes created and 100 000 lenses tested to develop the final patented formula, Transitions® GEN STM brings a vision to life of a lens that breaks boundaries of performance.
“We need to open everybody’s eyes to the importance of diving deeper and prescribing dynamic lenses – not the static ones from the past.”
Chris Lievens, Director of Research and Professor, Southern College of Optometry, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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[1]For polycarbonate & CR39 lenses across colors achieving 18% transmission at 23°C
[2]For grey lenses in the clear to dark (category 3) photochromic category. Transitions SALT F lenses fade back faster to 70% transmission while achieving less than 14% transmission when activated at @ 23°C.
[3] For grey polycarbonate lenses compared to the previous generation.
[4] Vision quality improved in challenging light conditions, notably when moving from a bright to a darker environment (source B, Transitions SALT F compared to Transitions Signature GEN 8), in bright to very bright light situations (source A, Transitions SALT F compared to clear lenses) and in low light with peaky stray light (source A, Transitions SALT F compared to clear lenses).
Source A: Subject-masked cross-over randomized controlled investigation performed in 2023 on 30 healthy participants (19.2 ± 1.3 years). Testing light stress (discomfort and disability glare, photostress recovery) with the clear and darkest states of grey Transitions SALT F 1.6 index lenses with a premium anti-reflective coating compared to clear 1.6 index lenses with a premium anti-reflective coating. Principal Investigator Prof Billy R. Hammond.
Source B: Subject-masked cross-over randomized controlled investigation performed in 2023 on 10 healthy pre-trained participants (29.5 ± 4.0 years). Testing contrast sensitivity during fade-back with grey Transitions SALT F 1.6 index lenses with a premium anti reflective coating compared to grey Transitions Signature GEN 8 1.6 index lenses with a premium anti reflective coating. Principal Investigator Prof Pablo Artal. Accepted abstract at ARVO 2024. Duarte-Toledo R, Mompeán J et al., A new photochromic lens improves contrast sensitivity during fade back.
“Participating in the summer student program at FYidoctors was an amazing hands-on and inspiring experience. I appreciated the flexibility to choose whether I wanted to work at the reception or the dispensary, allowing me to tailor the program to my interests and refine any skills that I wanted to improve. Guest speakers, including experienced doctors with special interests, provided us with insightful presentations each week that broadened and deepened my understanding of the field. This program truly offered a customizable and enriching experience that has left me more excited for my future career.”
~ Sandra Nguyen, 2nd year Optometry student at University of Waterloo, School of Optometry and Vision Science
FYihealth group has had a very successful summer student year in 2024, welcoming a total of 80 students to its FYidoctors, Visique, BonLook and solis optics practices across Canada through its Summer Student Program. Students in various years of their optometry studies attended a customized program tailored to their areas of interest, including mentorship from practicing optometrists, hands-on experience performing patient pre-tests and exams, and a look into the clinics’ business operations.
“This year, we’ve welcomed our largest cohort of student optometrists ever in our organization’s history,” shares Harneet Gill, Senior Director of Talent Acquisitions for FYihealth group, “Over these last few weeks of summer, I have heard so many amazing stories from our clinics about this group of optometry students and I do hope we get the chance to welcome them back as fully licenced and practicing doctors after graduation!”
Jeremiah Hyslop
“In optometry school, many different individuals and companies speak to students with offers, programs, and messages. However, none were more hyped up within the student body than the FYidoctors Summer Student Program, thanks to the great experiences of past students to partake. Now nearing the end of my own experience in this program, I can absolutely see why my colleagues were so enthusiastic. I have worked many jobs, but none have come close to being so educational, relevant for my future career, and focused on providing a great experience at the workplace. My only regret is not jumping on this opportunity a year earlier!”
~Jeremiah Hyslop, 2nd year Optometry student at University of Waterloo, School of Optometry and Vision Science.
The Summer Student Programs offered by FYihealth group are highly competitive and sought-after positions for young optometrists-in-training, hailing from Universities across the US and Canada.
“The Summer Student Program has been instrumental in fostering connection and collaboration with future leaders in optometry. The mutual benefit that this program offers can only be described as incredible,” says Dr. Ryan Hogan, FYidoctors Optometrist and Advisory Committee Campus Ambassador. “Opportunity comes from both angles as students are able to learn from established doctors while current optometrists can source new talent to join their practices. All of our summer students have joined the FYidoctors family after graduation and this program helps ensure continued success in the field of optometry.”
Brett Corner
“The FYidoctors Summer Student Program gave me the opportunity to enhance my clinical skills, particularly with patient communication and the use of diagnostic tools like the OCT and Humphrey Visual Field. It was valuable to shadow ODs during complex eye exams as well as having the opportunity to practice the skills I had learned in school like retinoscopy and refraction. The discussions I had with the seasoned professionals at a rural clinic not only boosted my confidence in my skills but also deepened my understanding of the importance of trust in the patient-doctor relationship. The advice and mentoring I received this summer led to an invaluable learning experience.”
~ Brett Corner, 1st year student at New England College of Optometry (NECO)
Founded in 2008 by a small group of optometrists, FYihealth group’s structure and operations is based on the essential belief that doctors need to be at the center of all eye care health and vision solutions, and that patients deserve access to the best technology, doctor care, and experience. Today, FYihealth group is Canada’s leading diversified healthcare organization with over 650 optometrists serving over 370 locations coast to coast.
Named one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies for five consecutive years, Canada’s Top Growing Companies for two years in a row, and recently certified a Great Place to Work® for the second year, team members credit the company’s success to its dedication to its people and their communities. The organization looks forward to continuing its growth, not only through its student programs, but by welcoming experienced doctors to the team as well.
FYihealth group is a strong supporter of the growth of future optometrists as exemplified by its $5 million donation in 2023 to help build the Waterloo Eye Institute, officially breaking ground to begin construction earlier this year in June. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without optometry,” explains Dr. Alan Ulsifer, Chair & CEO of FYihealth group, “Being able to give back to the place that I owe my profession to is not only a privilege but almost like a professional obligation. As optometrists, we should not be competing against one another, but working together to bring the best eye care possible to the public and finding the best solutions for their eye health needs.”
Emily Chan
“I had an amazing experience participating in the FYidoctors Summer Student Program after my first year of optometry school. It was a fantastic opportunity to work in a clinic, observe the patient pathway, and apply what I learned in school into what I was learning in clinic. Because there are many FYidoctors locations across Canada, I am fortunate to be able to work and provide care to patients within my community. I was also able to connect with optometrists in my clinic. During the program, I was able to work and shadow the doctors, opticians, pre-screen, and front desk staff. I was also able to meet and learn from other doctors and peers in the program through weekly lunch hour socials and presentations. It is a truly rewarding and enriching 3-month experience interacting with patients and learning more about optometry!”
~ Emily Chan, 2nd year Optometry student at Pacific University, College of Optometry.
FYihealth group wishes all its summer students the best in their next year of studies!
K-774’s retro-inspired look features patterned base acetate and custom lamination on the temple, creating a striking look where colours blend seamlessly.
Delve into the world of night vision technology. From thermal imaging to infrared systems, explore how these innovations improve our ability to see in the dark.
Vision Expo East, organized by co-owners RX and The Vision Council, announces that submissions are now open for the highly anticipated NOW Trend Showcase and Awards at Vision Expo East 2025, taking place in Orlando, FL.
The Association des optométristes du Québec (AOQ) will take the relevant legal measures to challenge the validity of the government’s ministerial order preventing optometrists in the province from exercising a right to which they are entitled: to opt out of the public health plan.
K-774’s retro-inspired look features patterned base acetate and custom lamination on the temple, creating a striking look where colours blend seamlessly.
Delve into the world of night vision technology. From thermal imaging to infrared systems, explore how these innovations improve our ability to see in the dark.
Vision Expo East, organized by co-owners RX and The Vision Council, announces that submissions are now open for the highly anticipated NOW Trend Showcase and Awards at Vision Expo East 2025, taking place in Orlando, FL.
The Association des optométristes du Québec (AOQ) will take the relevant legal measures to challenge the validity of the government’s ministerial order preventing optometrists in the province from exercising a right to which they are entitled: to opt out of the public health plan.
K-774’s retro-inspired look features patterned base acetate and custom lamination on the temple, creating a striking look where colours blend seamlessly.
Delve into the world of night vision technology. From thermal imaging to infrared systems, explore how these innovations improve our ability to see in the dark.
Vision Expo East, organized by co-owners RX and The Vision Council, announces that submissions are now open for the highly anticipated NOW Trend Showcase and Awards at Vision Expo East 2025, taking place in Orlando, FL.
The Association des optométristes du Québec (AOQ) will take the relevant legal measures to challenge the validity of the government’s ministerial order preventing optometrists in the province from exercising a right to which they are entitled: to opt out of the public health plan.
K-774’s retro-inspired look features patterned base acetate and custom lamination on the temple, creating a striking look where colours blend seamlessly.
Delve into the world of night vision technology. From thermal imaging to infrared systems, explore how these innovations improve our ability to see in the dark.
Vision Expo East, organized by co-owners RX and The Vision Council, announces that submissions are now open for the highly anticipated NOW Trend Showcase and Awards at Vision Expo East 2025, taking place in Orlando, FL.
The Association des optométristes du Québec (AOQ) will take the relevant legal measures to challenge the validity of the government’s ministerial order preventing optometrists in the province from exercising a right to which they are entitled: to opt out of the public health plan.
