Young Optometrists recently hosted its Optometry Marketplace event, bringing together optometry students and young optometrists for an evening focused on career exploration, professional development, and industry connection.
Many young optometrists graduate with the expectation that their career pathway will primarily involve working within a corporate or independent practice setting. While these are valuable career paths, there are also many opportunities within the wider optical industry that students and young practitioners may not yet be exposed to during their studies. The Optometry Marketplace event was designed to broaden perspectives on the profession and provide greater insight into the diverse roles, organisations, and pathways available within optometry and the optical industry.
Many particularly valued the opportunity to hear authentic career journeys, gain insight into less traditional pathways, and connect with peers and industry professionals
The event attracted a strong turnout of both optometry students and young optometrists, creating an engaging environment for discussion and networking. Attendees heard from a diverse line-up of speakers representing a broad range of organisations, clinical settings, and career journeys within the industry. Speakers included Joe Tanner (CooperVision), Rebecca Dang (University of New South Wales), Sujan Hong (Corneal and Contact Lens Society Australia), Amy Pham and Zeinab Fakih (Australasian College of Behavioural Optometrists), Megan Tu and Wilson Luu (Lumiere Eyecare), Michael Nasser (Vision Connection), Acyel Al-Alosi (Specsavers), and Catherine Huynh and Julianna Yan (EssilorLuxottica). Each speaker shared valuable insights into their roles, organisations, and personal career experiences, offering attendees a broader understanding of the many directions an optometry career can take. Attendees were also fortunate to have the opportunity to win an Anatomy of the Eye chart, generously provided by mivision.
The evening received positive feedback, with attendees describing the event as informative, inspiring, and highly engaging. Many particularly valued the opportunity to hear authentic career journeys, gain insight into less traditional pathways, and connect with peers and industry professionals in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Young Optometrists aims to foster a welcoming and supportive community that encourages continual learning, networking, and professional growth for students and young practitioners within the profession. For those interested in attending future CPD and networking events, or learning more about membership, visit www.yoptoms.com/Membership.
