The Optical Foundation

22/07/2026

The Optical Foundation is honoured that Dr. Robin Chalmers, OD, FAAO, FBCLA, has made herself available as a mentor in support of the 2025 The Optical Foundation Early Career Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Field of Optometry.

As part of the award, 2025 recipient Dr. Raphael Kyei will have the privilege of learning from one of optometry's most accomplished researchers and mentors.

A graduate of the UC Berkeley School of Optometry, Dr. Chalmers has dedicated her career to advancing the profession through clinical research, innovation and mentorship. Her work has focused on the measurement of symptoms in dry eye, the epidemiology of contact lens complications, and post-market surveillance of contact lens health outcomes. She also co-developed the Dry Eye Questionnaire-5 (DEQ-5) and the 8-item Contact Lens Dry Eye Questionnaire (CLDEQ-8), and today continues to mentor early researchers through the American Academy of Optometry Fellows Doing Research Special Interest Group.

For emerging leaders like Dr. Raphael Kyei, the opportunity to be mentored by someone of Dr. Chalmers' calibre is invaluable. Access to the experience, knowledge and perspective of internationally respected leaders helps foster professional growth, strengthens research capability, and inspires the next generation of optometrists to continue raising standards of patient care and innovation.

Dr. Chalmers' generosity in sharing her time and expertise reflects the very spirit of The Optical Foundation's Early Career Award—creating meaningful connections that invest in people, strengthen the profession, and help shape the future of optometry.

We extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Chalmers for supporting this initiative and congratulate Dr. Raphael Kyei on this exceptional mentorship opportunity.

18/07/2026

Time is running out to submit your application for the 2026 The Optical Foundation Early Career Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Field of Optometry.

This award recognises early career optometrists who are making meaningful contributions to the profession through leadership, service, research, innovation, education, advocacy, or community impact.

In addition to receiving international recognition, the award recipient will have the unique opportunity to participate in a personalised mentorship with an internationally respected leader in optometry—continuing The Optical Foundation's commitment to investing in the next generation of professionals.

If you, or someone you know, is making a difference in optometry, we encourage you to submit an application before 31 July 2026.

Together, let's celebrate emerging leaders who are shaping the future of eye care.

📅 Applications close: 31 July 2026

Please share this opportunity with colleagues, mentors and early career optometrists in your network.

2026 The Optical Foundation Early Career Award We are accepting candidates nominations for The Optical Foundation Early Career Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Field of Optometry Award. This annual award is presented to an individual less than 6 years post-graduation who has made a signif...

11/06/2026

This is a call for nominations for candidates for The Optical Foundation Early Career Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Field of Optometry 2026 Award.

This annual award will be presented to an individual less than 6 years post-graduation who has made a significant contribution to the practice and development of optometry and/or the visual enhancement of the public.

Nominations for candidates need to be submitted to The Optical Foundation Advisory Committee no later than July 31st, 2026 12:00 GMT.

Refer to the website for more information and requirements for nominations. https://www.theopticalfoundation.com/early-career-award

2026 The Optical Foundation Early Career Award We are accepting candidates nominations for The Optical Foundation Early Career Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Field of Optometry Award. This annual award is presented to an individual less than 6 years post-graduation who has made a signif...

15/03/2026

From Award Winner to Industry-Ready Leader: Dr. Samson Darrah's Year-Long Mentorship Journey

In October 2024, we celebrated Dr. Samson Darrah as our 2024 Early Career Award recipient. As part of this prestigious award, Samson received a year-long mentorship with industry leader Dr. Erich Bauman.

Having recently completed this transformative experience, we're sharing how it has elevated his already remarkable trajectory.

Samson had already achieved extraordinary impact - founding iCare Network International (serving 2,000+ individuals), conducting groundbreaking research in advanced ophthalmic imaging and retinal disease, and helping students secure fully funded scholarships. Yet he recognized that to maximize his future impact, he needed to understand how innovation moves from research into real-world solutions.

Over twelve months of guidance from Dr. Bauman, Samson gained insights that went far beyond technical knowledge:

* Building relationships matters as much as credentials -- Throughout the year, Samson became more intentional about networking and sharing his work proactively.

* Clinical expertise guides innovation -- Dr. Bauman showed that moving into industry leadership doesn't mean leaving clinical understanding behind.

* Think strategically, not just operationally -- Samson now approaches iCare Network by asking what long-term problems to solve, not just what event to organize next.

* One conversation can open doors -- When Samson expressed curiosity about industry work, Dr. Bauman immediately connected him with professionals to observe firsthand.

"Dr. Bauman helped me understand that growth is not only about what you know, but also about how you position yourself and who you build with over time," Samson reflects.

The impact of this year is already visible - and true to his character, Samson is paying it forward through structured mentorship programs for the next generation.

To aspiring optometrists: Samson's journey shows that even accomplished young leaders can accelerate their impact through the right mentorship. The TOF Early Career Award offers not just recognition, but includes a full year of transformative guidance from an industry leader.

Applications for 2026 will open soon. If you're making outstanding contributions through research, community service, education, or innovation - start preparing your submission today.

08/03/2026

Happy International Women’s Day 2026!
Today we celebrate the incredible women who shape our communities, professions, and future.

On International Women’s Day, The Optical Foundation recognises the strength, leadership, and dedication of women everywhere. From healthcare and education to science, business, and community life, women continue to make a lasting difference.

Today we not only honour the achievements of women everywhere and celebrate the positive change they inspire, we also commit to stand for “Rights, Justice & Action for ALL Women and Girls.” Because when women and girls have equal opportunities to realise their potential, it not only honours their inherent dignity and rights, but strengthens our professions, enriches our communities, and advances a more just and flourishing society for all.

# optometry

17/02/2026

We are deeply honoured to celebrate Dr. Erich Bauman , OD, MBA, MAR, FAAO, whose generous commitment as mentor for our 2024 Early Career Award exemplifies the spirit of excellence and service that defines optometry at its best.

Dr. Bauman brings an extraordinary wealth of experience to this mentorship—over 35 years spanning clinical practice, groundbreaking research and development, and global leadership in the contact lens industry. From leading the development of innovative products like DAILIES TOTAL1® and PRECISION1® to holding pivotal roles across clinical, regulatory, marketing, and commercial domains, his career reflects a rare combination of technical expertise and strategic vision.

For our 2024 award recipient, Dr. Samson Darrah, this mentorship represents an invaluable opportunity. Under Dr. Bauman's guidance, Dr. Darrah gained access to insights that bridge the gap between clinical excellence and industry innovation—learning not just the science of optometry, but the art of leadership, the importance of cross-functional collaboration, and the strategic thinking that drives the profession forward.

Dr. Bauman's commitment to nurturing the next generation ensures that young leaders like Dr. Darrah are equipped to elevate the standards of optometry globally. This mentorship will ripple into the future, strengthening patient care, advancing research, and inspiring others to pursue excellence with both technical skill and genuine care for the communities they serve.

To prospective mentors: Dr. Bauman's example shows us that sharing your experience is one of the most powerful ways to shape the future of our profession. We invite you to consider becoming a mentor for future TOF Early Career Award recipients and help us build a legacy of excellence together.

Caro Kunnen, Samson Darrah, Daudi Mohammed-Ameen, Young Hyun Kim, Nutifafa Anuwa Amarh, Simone J. Stad, Fayiz Mahgoub

01/01/2026

As we welcome 2026, we are grateful for the people, partnerships, and connections that bring The Optical Foundation’s work to life around the world.

Our goal is to make eye care accessible in the developing world through comprehensive eye exams, education, and research, while also creating meaningful opportunities for optometry students to learn, serve, and grow. Together, we are expanding access to care and helping shape the next generation of eye care leaders.

Thank you for being part of this community. Wishing you a Happy New Year and looking forward to continuing this work together in 2026.

02/12/2025

This Giving Tuesday, help us bring vision to life!
Millions of people around the world lack access to basic eye care, leaving children unable to
learn and adults unable to work to their full potential. At The Optical Foundation, we
believe that clear sight changes lives.
Your donation today helps us support sustainable eye-care programs that create lasting
impact.
Donate now and be part of a brighter future: https://www.theopticalfoundation.com/donate

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24/11/2025

We are thrilled to announce Raphael Baffour Kyei as the winner of the 2025 The Optical Foundation Early Career Award — Raphael is a visionary young leader transforming eye care and preventing avoidable blindness across Ghana and beyond.

Raphael’s journey is rooted in a mission to prevent blindness through education, clinical care, and community outreach. He previously served as a Mandela Washington Fellow at the University of Nevada, Reno, having been selected among the top 1% of Ghanaian applicants for this prestigious U.S. Department of State program recognizing Africa’s most impactful emerging leaders.

His excellence has been recognized at home as well: the Ghana Optometric Association named him the Best Optometrist in the Greater Accra Zone and Best Private Sector Entrepreneur in the Greater Accra Zone, and he ranked second nationally in both categories — achievements that reflect his growing influence in advancing eye health in Africa.

A Leader Building Systems That Last

A dedicated optometrist, entrepreneur, and public health advocate, our awardee has built an extraordinary career centred on expanding access to quality eye care. As the founder and CEO of Lenzvision Opticals & Eye Care, he has grown a once self-funded dream into a thriving organization with two branches, a team of over 10 staff including full-time optometrists. His clinics have managed more than 7,000 eye cases and through community outreach, he has also provided eye care education and services to over 2,000 people in underserved communities.

A Digital Force for Eye Health

His leadership extends to the digital space as well — Lenzvision is now Ghana’s most-followed eye care organization on Instagram, with over 25,000 followers and a reach of more than 100,000 individuals. His commitment to public education has led to multiple appearances on national media as a trusted voice for eye health.

A Track Record of Service & Leadership

His passion for optometry began during university, where he served as P.R.O., Vice President, and Acting President of the Optometry Students Association of Ghana. He led the World Sight Day Committee and volunteered with organizations such as Unite for Sight, Vision Aid Overseas, and Helping Africa Foundation, providing screenings and education in rural areas.
Raphael’s growing influence has earned him recognition from the World Council of Optometry, the UNFPA, and leadership positions within national optometric committees — becoming the youngest optometrist to serve alongside senior professionals. His commitment to mentorship continues to shape the next generation of eye care leaders.

Looking Ahead

Winning The Optical Foundation's Early Career Award for Outstanding Contributions in Optometry, which comes with a one-year mentorship in the eye care industry, marks a strategic step toward scaling his mission.
He aims to strengthen sustainability, expand access to care, and continue driving innovation in line with the Foundation's mission of making eye care accessible across the developing world.

Join us in congratulating the 2025 The Optical Foundation Early Career Award winner Raphael Baffour Kyei!

His journey is just beginning, and the future of eye care in Africa is brighter because of his vision.