Ebru Efem’s experience as a child inspired her to become an orthoptist. A placement at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne shaped her career in optometry.
I have many childhood memories of visiting my local optometrist for my own eye health. Funnily enough, at the time I was blissfully unaware that this might, in some way, shape my future career. In retrospect, I imagine it did. It wasn’t just the clinical aspect that left an impression on me; it was the care, patience, and kindness of my optometrist that truly resonated.
Those qualities have stayed with me and continue to inspire my journey in optometry.
Discovering a Passion for Science
After high school I decided to pursue a science degree at Monash University. It was during this time that I realised I wanted to be in a clinical environment, but more importantly, I wanted to help people. This led me to enrol in a Master of Orthoptics at La Trobe University, where I fell in love with the idea of assisting both children and adults with various eye disorders.
A pivotal moment for my career came during a placement at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. Stepping into that vibrant environment felt like entering a whole new world. I treated young patients dealing with strabismus and other eye conditions. The experience was transformative, providing me with invaluable clinical skills and deepening my understanding of the emotional aspects of patient care.
After graduating, and as I became more involved in my patients’ care, I began to realise the significance of my role. I found that even a small part in a child’s journey towards better eye health was very rewarding. Managing the emotional aspects of patient cases became a vital part of my practice. The more I engaged with my patients, the more I felt I was achieving something meaningful.
…the sense of fulfillment I felt when we received our first patient booking was indescribable
Completing the Puzzle
To complete my professional journey, I decided to undertake a Master of Optometry at Deakin University. This program was intense yet incredibly fulfilling, focussing on areas such as pathology, primary care, medication management, and community setting care. As my skills expanded, so did my passion for the field.
During my time at Deakin, I met my future business partner, Alisha Shastri, in our second year. Although we were strangers at first, we found ourselves in the same tutorial group and quickly bonded over our shared passion for providing exceptional clinical care. Our mutual values and commitment to our patients strengthened our friendship.
As we were preparing to graduate, the onset of COVID-19 presented unforeseen challenges in finding fulfilling job opportunities.
In casual conversations, Alisha and I pondered the possibility of opening our own clinic. We envisioned a place where we could provide paediatric care in an environment where children felt safe and heard. Before we knew it, the prospect of opening our own practice became very real. We decided to become business partners and open iOptical in Greenvale, Victoria.
The Birth of iOptical
The planning phase for iOptical spanned almost two years. During this time, we balanced our jobs across Australia – Alisha in South Australia and me in Victoria. Despite having no prior business experience, we had a clear mission and the right support system around us.
Finally, in May 2022, iOptical opened its doors. The uncertainty of starting something new was daunting, yet the sense of fulfillment I felt when we received our first patient booking was indescribable. Our journey was bolstered by the unwavering support of family, friends, and our professional network.
Since opening, we have cultivated strong connections within our local community, collaborating with general practitioners and schools. We have expanded our scope of practice to include paediatric care, glaucoma management, myopia control, contact lens fittings, and much more. Our partnership with the ‘Glasses for Kids’ program, and involvement in school screenings, exemplify our commitment to providing comprehensive eye care for children.
Looking Ahead
As we enter 2025, we are excited to announce the opening of a second practice room focussed on paediatric services. We are dedicated to continuing to foster relationships with local hospitals, general practitioners, and ophthalmologists to deliver high-quality primary care equipped with the latest advancements in optometric technology.
Reflecting on my journey, I am grateful for every step that has led me to this point. My path has been marked by passion, purpose, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of children through quality eye care.
As I continue this rewarding journey in paediatric optometry, I remain excited about the future and the positive impact we can make in our community.
Ebru Efem graduated with a Bachelor of Health Sciences/ Master of Orthoptics in 2016 and Bachelor of Vision Science and Master of Optometry with ocular therapeutics in 2020. She has worked at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne as a paediatric orthoptist since 2017 and is the co-owner of iOptical in Greenvale, Victoria.
