Specsavers announces the launch of their collaboration with Hayley Elsaesser, a Canadian designer known for rebellious colour combinations, pop-art inspired prints and the bold character of her designs.
The collection centres around self-expression without limitation, offering a variety of frame styles, from timeless cat-eye in statement colours, to chunky geometric shapes, to oversized delicate metal frames. With stunning prints, candy colours, stylish silhouettes, and to-die-for details, these designer glasses will have wearers looking and feeling their best.
“Eyewear can define an entire look. The right frames can be the perfect finishing touch. Working with Specsavers allowed me to create a collection that combines high quality and exquisite details at an accessible price point.”
Hayley Elsaesser
“Collaborating with Hayley was an obvious choice,” said Sarah West, Head of Product, Specsavers Canada. “Hayley’s approach to style, which celebrates inclusion and individuality, aligns perfectly with our brand and our desire to empower our customers to have access to the right style for them.”
“I’m extremely proud of this collection. It takes confidence to move through life expressing joy and having fun with your style,” added Elsaesser. “Those who do create joy for others. You become a billboard for happiness.”
From November 15 to November 17, the Waterloo Eye Institute (WEI) hosted an exceptional event in Markham, Ontario, offering an engaging mix of continuing education (CE) and industry networking opportunities for optometric professionals. Over three days, attendees participated in 20 hours of COPE-accredited CE sessions for optometrists and 6 hours of tailored CE programming for optometric assistants.
The event also included a three-hour trade show on Saturday, featuring more than 30 industry-leading exhibitors showcasing the latest innovations in eye care products and technologies.
Highlights from the Distinguished Lecture Series
Dr. Etty Bitton
Dr. Etty Bitton: On Friday, Dr. Etty Bitton delivered the prestigious Woodruff Distinguished Lecture, presenting on the differential diagnosis of anterior blepharitis.
A celebrated expert in tear film physiology and dry eye, Dr. Bitton holds a Doctorate in Optometry from the University of Waterloo and a Master’s in Physiological Optics from the Université de Montréal. Currently a full professor and director of the Dry Eye Clinic at the École d’optométrie, she has been a leader in dry eye research and a contributor to global initiatives like TFOS DEWS II. Her presentation was a tribute to Dr. Emerson Woodruff’s legacy, whose contributions helped shape optometry education and research at the University of Waterloo.
Dr. Donald Hood
Dr. Donald Hood: On Saturday, Dr. Donald Hood took the stage to deliver the 33rd Bobier Distinguished Lecture, titled “A Novel Approach to Identifying Glaucoma Based on a Large Real-World OCT Database from Optometry Cases.”
Dr. Hood, Professor Emeritus at Columbia University, is a renowned figure in retinal and optic nerve disease research, with nearly 400 publications and numerous accolades, including an honorary degree from SUNY College of Optometry. His lecture honored Dr. Clair Bobier’s pioneering vision for integrating scientific research into optometry education, further solidifying the importance of evidence-based practice in the profession.
Networking and Innovation at the Trade Show
Saturday’s trade show provided a bustling platform for attendees to explore cutting-edge technologies and services from over 30 exhibitors. This interactive session fostered connections between practitioners and industry leaders, further supporting the WEI’s mission of advancing patient care and optometric education.
NextGEN OD Student Ambassadors, Sara Baig and Shreya Jain, supported Clinical & Refractive Optometry during the 3-hour trade show.
Engaging Panel Discussions
The event concluded on Sunday with a dynamic “Rapid Fire Panel Discussion” on advanced scleral imaging and specialty contact lens technology. Moderated by Drs. Chelsea Bray, Shalu Pal, and Vishakha Thakrar, the panel provided practical insights and innovative approaches to enhancing patient outcomes through emerging lens technologies.
Looking Ahead
The success of the WEI’s November event underscores its commitment to fostering collaboration, education, and innovation within the optometric community. With initiatives like these, the WEI continues to pave the way for advancements in vision science and patient care, benefitting practitioners and patients alike across Canada.
Want to see more like this article? Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazines and e-newsletters!
Blackfin launches its fall season with new collections and a campaign continuing the Spring/Summer theme. The frames boast a minimalist design with geometric lines and varying titanium thicknesses, from the bold Atlantic to the lightweight Pacific, and Blackfin One, reflecting timeless elegance. Vibrant colours highlight the styles, emphasizing Italian craftsmanship and quality.
Mood Eyewear Inc is proud to lead in the latest European optical trends, integrating European fashion influences to enhance the visual experience. We consider it both a duty and an honor to support our business partners by providing personalized and efficient service. Our exclusive collections are carefully curated to blend creativity, innovation, art, design, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology.
Established in 2006, Mood Eyewear was founded with the aim of importing and offering prestigious optical and sunglass collections to the Canadian market. Our group ensures the distribution of renowned European brands, selected for their quality and distinctive aesthetics.
We are the exclusive distributors in Canada for brands such as Blackfin, Woodys, Le Parc, Visionario, X-Ide, MIC, I-Man, Komono, and Kunoquist.
Want to see more like this article? Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazines and e- newsletters!
In this issue, Optik spotlights two more remarkable women shaping the future of eye care in our industry. Join us as we explore their professional and personal journeys, offering invaluable insights and advice.
Kim Manias embarked upon her journey in eye care as a student optician in 1990 after which she managed independent eye care offices. In 2005, she transitioned to the corporate world. Demonstrating exceptional leadership skills, Kim was promoted multiple times and now currently oversees a team of 14 Business Consultants as Central and Western Canada Sales Manager at Essilor. Her focus is on training, supporting, and nurturing the growth of independent eye care professionals.
What motivated you to choose your eye care career path? Kim Manias: I was 16 years old when I started in the industry. My childhood Optician encouraged me to pursue an Optics career and the rest is history. I have been involved in every facet of the industry, from being a practicing Optician, Business Consultant, Manager and Sales Leader managing Buying Groups and Reps and developing different business strategies. All these experiences led me to where I am today. I’m proud to say I still have the same excitement and passion for the eyecare industry as I did when I was first starting out!
How do you approach mentorship, and what advice would you give to young women aspiring to excel in our industry? KM: For me leadership and mentorship are about uncovering everyone’s passions and incorporating these into their approach to ensure it’s authentic. It’s all about working together to achieve a common goal and helping to uncover strengths and opportunities through joint efforts.
What is your favorite book, and how has it influenced you? KM: Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott. I love this book as it really challenges us to all go deeper in our professional and person conversations to get the most out of all our interactions and relationships.
Outside of the profession, what are your hobbies or passions, and how do they enrich your life? KM: One of my proudest achievements was completing a full marathon, after doing four half marathons. The training, discipline, and mental toughness that was required has served me well. Running is my stress release. Our home backs onto trails and forests allowing me to the flexibility to run at any time. I especially love getting out after travelling.
Do you have a favorite dish or cuisine, and is there a particular reason it’s your favorite? KM: I enjoy cooking in my spare time and when my boys come home. Marrying into an Italian family, I learned to make lasagna and other Italian dishes from scratch. Growing up on the East Coast introduced me to a variety of seafood. There’s a lot of diversity in my cooking.
With over 28 years of experience in sales/marketing, leadership and business development, and a total of 18 years with Transitions Optical, Christine Zeggil currently serves as the National Key Account Executive for Canada, at Transitions Optical. Throughout her career, Christine has honed an extensive knowledge of lens technologies, business development, leadership skills and stays connected to the latest industry trends. Christine also finds fulfillment in coaching, mentoring, and supporting others on their professional journey by sharing her insights and expertise.
How do you approach mentorship, and what advice would you give to young women aspiring to excel in our industry? Christine Zeggil: To me, mentorship plays a pivotal role in both personal and professional development by offering guidance, support, and invaluable insights. In the optical industry, mentorship becomes even more crucial as it helps young women navigate a dynamic and complex industry. For young women aspiring to excel in our industry, seeking mentors opens doors to diverse perspectives, different career strategies, and networking opportunities. I’ve had the opportunity to be a mentor and also, I’m very fortunate to have mentors throughout my career that have shared their expertise, advice on overcoming challenges, and opened doors to opportunities.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? CZ: I prefer to explore new destinations over revisiting familiar ones. While I do enjoy returning to some of my favourite places (Ireland, Napa Valley, Banff, AB), visiting new places offers the unique opportunity to experience new cultures, new cuisine, and exploration. It’s a big, beautiful world out there! A few places next on my list to visit include European destinations such as Italy, UK, Switzerland. I’d also love to visit Australia and South Africa someday.
In what ways do you believe your work has contributed to innovations or changes in the field? CZ: My role and contribution to the optical industry is to support eyecare professionals by introducing the Transitions technology and successfully bringing it to market through training/educational initiatives and developing programs and strategic plans that support the success of our business partners.
Do you have a go-to movie that you never tire of watching? What makes it special for you? CZ: One of my favourite movies is The Notebook…I’m a sucker for a good love story. For those who know me, they know I have been a longtime fan of the British soap opera, Coronation Street. My Mom introduced me to this TV show over 40 years ago and growing up, we used to watch it together every Sunday. I have faithfully watched it ever since. Ted Lasso delivered an amazing message about kindness, empathy, optimism, seeing the best in people, and the importance of being willing to always learn and grow – all things I try to live by.
The insights from these visionary women underscore the profound impact they have on the eyewear and eye care sectors in Canada. Their wisdom and experiences act as beacons for transformation and progress. As we feature other trailblazers in our series, stay tuned for further inspiration.
The University of Waterloo and Mount Royal University have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore the creation of a school of optometry in Alberta. A new school of optometry would be the first in Western Canada and only the third nationally.
The University of Waterloo is currently home to the only English-language school of optometry in Canada. Without sufficient seats in Canada, many qualified candidates go to the U.S. to study – and this presents barriers for many potential optometrists.
Doctors of optometry take a leading role in eye and vision care as well as general patient health and well-being. As primary healthcare providers, optometrists have extensive and ongoing training to examine, diagnose, treat and manage ocular disorders, diseases and injuries and systemic diseases that manifest in the eye.
The memorandum of understanding between the two universities is a strategic partnership to address the increasing demand for vision care stemming from an aging and growing population.
An important goal of this partnership is to better address ocular and systemic diseases – such as age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, hypertension and diabetes – that are prevalent in rural and Indigenous communities. The partners therefore aim to improve access to optometric education particularly for qualified applicants from these communities.
Dr. Stanley Woo
“We’re delighted to partner with Mount Royal University as it seeks to expand access to optometric education in Alberta,” said Dr. Stanley Woo, director of the University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science. “What’s unique about this initiative is the recognition that a partnership model leveraging the respective strengths of two reputable institutions with aligned values may be the key to recruiting a diverse optometry student body including talented candidates from underrepresented groups.”
The School of Optometry and Vision Science has roots more than 100 years old and has been located at the University of Waterloo since 1967. It ranks third in North America – and fifth in the world – in research impact for schools of optometry and is seen as a national resource to provincial and national optometric associations and colleges. It is in the process of building the Waterloo Eye Institute, a major expansion and renovation of its clinical space that will also allow it to increase enrolment at its Waterloo campus.
Dr. Chad London
“Mount Royal University is pleased to undertake this exploration with the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry and Vision Science to increase access to optometry education for Albertans,” said Dr. Chad London, provost and vice-president, academic at Mount Royal University. “We are especially excited about the opportunity this could present in reducing barriers for Indigenous students.”
Mount Royal University, located in Calgary, is one of Canada’s top destinations for undergraduate education. It provides students with the critical skills and practical experiences that will prepare them to contribute to, and succeed in, an increasingly complex and ever-changing world.
The emerging partnership between the University of Waterloo and Mount Royal University is supported the Alberta Association of Optometrists and the Alberta College of Optometrists.
“For more than 100 years, the Alberta Association of Optometrists’ members have been advocating for and providing exceptional vision and eye health care to Albertans,” said Dr. Sophia Leung, president of the Alberta Association of Optometrists.
“This partnership supports a crucial step forward to ensuring there are proficient optometrists ready to serve Alberta’s growing population, including those living in rural and remote areas, in accessing the comprehensive eye care they need and deserve. The time has come for Alberta to be an educational leader and move forward with the first school of optometry to serve students in this province while supporting those in Western Canada.”
“This partnership marks a transformative step in elevating patient care across Alberta,” said Dr. Kim Bugera, registrar and CEO of the Alberta College of Optometrists. “A new school of optometry will not only address our province’s growing need for skilled optometrists but also ensure that diverse communities—particularly in rural and underserved areas—have improved access to essential vision care and comprehensive health support.”
Warby Parker has launched Warby Parker Sport, a new performance eyewear category featuring sport-focused frames and polarized lenses for active lifestyles.
Alcon and ARVO are continuing their partnership on the 2026 Eye Pitch event, which will showcase early- and mid-stage innovations in eye and vision research at the ARVO Annual Meeting.
EssilorLuxottica has acquired Faro, an Italian company specializing in high-precision CNC machinery for milling and diamond cutting used in the jewelry and eyewear industries.
Warby Parker has launched Warby Parker Sport, a new performance eyewear category featuring sport-focused frames and polarized lenses for active lifestyles.
Alcon and ARVO are continuing their partnership on the 2026 Eye Pitch event, which will showcase early- and mid-stage innovations in eye and vision research at the ARVO Annual Meeting.
EssilorLuxottica has acquired Faro, an Italian company specializing in high-precision CNC machinery for milling and diamond cutting used in the jewelry and eyewear industries.
Warby Parker has launched Warby Parker Sport, a new performance eyewear category featuring sport-focused frames and polarized lenses for active lifestyles.
Alcon and ARVO are continuing their partnership on the 2026 Eye Pitch event, which will showcase early- and mid-stage innovations in eye and vision research at the ARVO Annual Meeting.
EssilorLuxottica has acquired Faro, an Italian company specializing in high-precision CNC machinery for milling and diamond cutting used in the jewelry and eyewear industries.
Warby Parker has launched Warby Parker Sport, a new performance eyewear category featuring sport-focused frames and polarized lenses for active lifestyles.
Alcon and ARVO are continuing their partnership on the 2026 Eye Pitch event, which will showcase early- and mid-stage innovations in eye and vision research at the ARVO Annual Meeting.
EssilorLuxottica has acquired Faro, an Italian company specializing in high-precision CNC machinery for milling and diamond cutting used in the jewelry and eyewear industries.
