Australia’s first event designed for women in optics is set to take place at The Timber Yard in Melbourne on Sunday 15 March.
Timed to coincide with the week of International Women’s Day, ‘Women With Vision – The Festival’ will bring together women from across the optical sector for a day of genuine connection, bold conversations and real inspiration.
Jacque Katsieris, co-founder of Women with Vision and director of ProOptics, said the event will be people-focused with content designed to “elevate, connect and inspire”.
“The industry is shifting – women now make up nearly 60% of optometry professionals in Australia and are well-represented across dispensing, practice management, and industry roles,” Ms Katsieris explained. “There are many, many formal conferences throughout the year that address clinical and buying needs. But until now, nothing that expands our horizons more holistically by drawing on the achievements of women outside our industry.”
The festival features four powerhouse speakers from outside the optical industry – women who’ve built businesses, challenged norms, and led with courage
A Lineup That Delivers
The festival features four powerhouse speakers from outside the optical industry – women who’ve built businesses, challenged norms, and led with courage:
Mindy Woods: Champion of Change at the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Ms Woods has shaped global hospitality and brings insights on leading with vision and creating meaningful impact.
Cherie Clonan: Social media powerhouse and founder of The Digital Picnic, Ms Clonan specialises in human-centric leadership and building authentic brands in the digital age.
Emily Mann: Brand strategist and creator of Main Character Energy, Ms Mann helps leaders step into their power and own their narrative with confidence.
Clare Desira: Resilience expert specialising in brain training and mindset mastery, Ms Desire equips professionals with practical tools for navigating pressure and building mental strength.
“These aren’t optical speakers delivering CPD content. They’re industry-crossing leaders sharing real stories about resilience, innovation, and leadership that translate directly to the challenges women in optics face daily,” said Ms Katsieris.
The Panel: Six Perspectives, One Conversation
The day also features an industry panel bringing together diverse voices from across the eye care and eyewear spectrum to speak about what it really takes to lead, grow, and thrive in optics:
- Dr Jacqueline Beltz
- Jacque Katsieris
- Eliza Whiteley
- Lana Del Porto
- Angelina Chee
- Jane Hutchinson
The Experience
The festival will commence at 9am with a speed-connection breakfast over coffee, mimosas, and good food, to help attendees find their industry connections, mentors and collaborators. The full festival program will run from 11am–5pm, with meals, premium swag bags, and networking opportunities provided throughout the day.
In an industry where women are the majority, Ms Katsieris said the day will “create the deliberately inclusive and dynamic environment that’s been missing”.
“It’s a celebration of courage, connection, and leadership – and a reminder that the women shaping optics deserve a day designed specifically for them.”
Women With Vision is supported by major industry sponsors including Rodenstock, Hoya, Zeiss, Eyebenefit, ProVision, Matrix, Pro Optics, DeRigo, ODA, mivision, Okkiyo and Eyecare Plus.
Tickets are available now at womenwithvision.com.au.
