Students Complete FYidoctors Summer Program Feeling “Enriched” and “Inspired”

FYidoctors Sandra Nguyen — Sandra Nguyen

“Participating in the summer student program at FYidoctors was an amazing hands-on and inspiring experience. I appreciated the flexibility to choose whether I wanted to work at the reception or the dispensary, allowing me to tailor the program to my interests and refine any skills that I wanted to improve. Guest speakers, including experienced doctors with special interests, provided us with insightful presentations each week that broadened and deepened my understanding of the field. This program truly offered a customizable and enriching experience that has left me more excited for my future career.”

~ Sandra Nguyen, 2nd year Optometry student at University of Waterloo, School of Optometry and Vision Science

FYihealth group has had a very successful summer student year in 2024, welcoming a total of 80 students to its FYidoctors, Visique, BonLook and solis optics practices across Canada through its Summer Student Program. Students in various years of their optometry studies attended a customized program tailored to their areas of interest, including mentorship from practicing optometrists, hands-on experience performing patient pre-tests and exams, and a look into the clinics’ business operations.

“This year, we’ve welcomed our largest cohort of student optometrists ever in our organization’s history,” shares Harneet Gill, Senior Director of Talent Acquisitions for FYihealth group, “Over these last few weeks of summer, I have heard so many amazing stories from our clinics about this group of optometry students and I do hope we get the chance to welcome them back as fully licenced and practicing doctors after graduation!”

FYidoctors Jeremiah Hyslop — Jeremiah Hyslop

“In optometry school, many different individuals and companies speak to students with offers, programs, and messages. However, none were more hyped up within the student body than the FYidoctors Summer Student Program, thanks to the great experiences of past students to partake. Now nearing the end of my own experience in this program, I can absolutely see why my colleagues were so enthusiastic. I have worked many jobs, but none have come close to being so educational, relevant for my future career, and focused on providing a great experience at the workplace. My only regret is not jumping on this opportunity a year earlier!”

~Jeremiah Hyslop, 2nd year Optometry student at University of Waterloo, School of Optometry and Vision Science.

The Summer Student Programs offered by FYihealth group are highly competitive and sought-after positions for young optometrists-in-training, hailing from Universities across the US and Canada.

“The Summer Student Program has been instrumental in fostering connection and collaboration with future leaders in optometry. The mutual benefit that this program offers can only be described as incredible,” says Dr. Ryan Hogan, FYidoctors Optometrist and Advisory Committee Campus Ambassador. “Opportunity comes from both angles as students are able to learn from established doctors while current optometrists can source new talent to join their practices. All of our summer students have joined the FYidoctors family after graduation and this program helps ensure continued success in the field of optometry.”

“The FYidoctors Summer Student Program gave me the opportunity to enhance my clinical skills, particularly with patient communication and the use of diagnostic tools like the OCT and Humphrey Visual Field. It was valuable to shadow ODs during complex eye exams as well as having the opportunity to practice the skills I had learned in school like retinoscopy and refraction. The discussions I had with the seasoned professionals at a rural clinic not only boosted my confidence in my skills but also deepened my understanding of the importance of trust in the patient-doctor relationship. The advice and mentoring I received this summer led to an invaluable learning experience.”

~ Brett Corner, 1st year student at New England College of Optometry (NECO)

Founded in 2008 by a small group of optometrists, FYihealth group’s structure and operations is based on the essential belief that doctors need to be at the center of all eye care health and vision solutions, and that patients deserve access to the best technology, doctor care, and experience. Today, FYihealth group is Canada’s leading diversified healthcare organization with over 650 optometrists serving over 370 locations coast to coast.

Named one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies for five consecutive years, Canada’s Top Growing Companies for two years in a row, and recently certified a Great Place to Work® for the second year, team members credit the company’s success to its dedication to its people and their communities. The organization looks forward to continuing its growth, not only through its student programs, but by welcoming experienced doctors to the team as well.

FYihealth group is a strong supporter of the growth of future optometrists as exemplified by its $5 million donation in 2023 to help build the Waterloo Eye Institute, officially breaking ground to begin construction earlier this year in June. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without optometry,” explains Dr. Alan Ulsifer, Chair & CEO of FYihealth group, “Being able to give back to the place that I owe my profession to is not only a privilege but almost like a professional obligation. As optometrists, we should not be competing against one another, but working together to bring the best eye care possible to the public and finding the best solutions for their eye health needs.”

FYidoctors Emily Chan student photo — Emily Chan

“I had an amazing experience participating in the FYidoctors Summer Student Program after my first year of optometry school. It was a fantastic opportunity to work in a clinic, observe the patient pathway, and apply what I learned in school into what I was learning in clinic. Because there are many FYidoctors locations across Canada, I am fortunate to be able to work and provide care to patients within my community. I was also able to connect with optometrists in my clinic. During the program, I was able to work and shadow the doctors, opticians, pre-screen, and front desk staff. I was also able to meet and learn from other doctors and peers in the program through weekly lunch hour socials and presentations. It is a truly rewarding and enriching 3-month experience interacting with patients and learning more about optometry!”

~ Emily Chan, 2nd year Optometry student at Pacific University, College of Optometry.

FYihealth group wishes all its summer students the best in their next year of studies!

To learn more about FYihealth group’s Summer Student Programs, please visit https://fyihealthgroup.com/careers/ or contact Michelle Melynk at Michelle.Melnyk@fyidoctors.com

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September 20, 2024September 20, 2024

CooperVision Celebrates World Cleanup Day with Plastic Neutrality Milestone,Premieres Docuseries Showcasing Impact of Initiative

Showcasing its commitment to sustainability, CooperVision announced that its landmark net plastic neutral contact lens initiative has now resulted in the prevention of the equivalent of more than 360 million plastic bottles from entering the oceans.^*1In addition, the company’s innovative partnership with Plastic Bank has been captured through a new mini-documentary series, with the first episode now available. The news comes on World Cleanup Day, which is dedicated to uniting millions of people, organizations, and governments to tackle global waste and help create a more sustainable world.

CooperVision pioneered the plastic neutral model² for the contact lens industry in 2021 and has continued to expand the global initiative’s scope, adding two new European countries, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, earlier this month. Collaborating with Plastic Bank, CooperVision funds the collection and recycling of ocean-bound plastic equivalent to the weight of plastic used in participating products sold and distributed across what is now 29 countries throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.^{‡ 3}

“As the first manufacturer to provide a full range of plastic neutral soft contact lenses,^†2 we are transforming and improving the well-being of People + Planet³. Thanks to our Plastic Bank partnership, the eye care professionals who prescribe CooperVision plastic neutral contact lenses—and the people who wear them—together, we embody the spirit and impact of World Cleanup Day year-round.”

Aldo Zucaro, Senior Director, Corporate Responsibility, CooperCompanies

In addition to the environmental benefits, CooperVision’s net plastic neutrality initiative elevates the lives of Plastic Bank collector members in hundreds of coastal communities¹—the subject of the new docuseries. In exchange for the ocean-bound plastic waste they collect, adults receive credits to purchase goods and services, including health, work and life insurance, digital connectivity, grocery vouchers, school supplies, and more.⁴ A vision care program provides vision screenings and vouchers for complimentary eye examinations and glasses for eligible Plastic Bank collection members.³

The first of five mini-documentaries, which features a day in the life of Ni Luh Made Kariasih—one of Plastic Bank’s collector members in Bali, Indonesia—can be viewed at CooperVision & Sustainability. Additional episodes highlighting different aspects of the plastic neutrality initiative with Plastic Bank will premiere over the coming months.

For more information about CooperVision’s commitment to sustainability, visit coopervision.ca/about-us/coopervision-sustainability.

__________________________

* CooperVision, through its collaboration with Plastic Bank, to have collected and converted approximately 7.2M kg of plastic destined for waterways as of May 2024. Using Plastic Bank’s metric of 1kg of plastic equaling 50 standard 202mm bottles, that will be the equivalent of approximately 360M plastic bottles not reaching our oceans.

‡ Plastic used in participating CooperVision soft contact lens products is determined by the weight of plastic in the blister, the lens, and the secondary package, including laminates, adhesives, and auxiliary inputs (e.g. ink). The determination does not include plastic used during the manufacturing process for both these products and their packaging.

References

1 CVI data on file as of May 2024.

2 CVI data on file, 2021, 2020-2020 Plastic Bank Contract Agreement.

3 CVI data on file, 2024.

4 How Plastic Bank Works. A Social Fintech | About Us | Plastic Bank. Accessed August 22, 2024.

Click HERE for the press release.

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September 19, 2024September 9, 2024

Best of Both Worlds

Launching in 2024, Rising Dawn merges colour science and titanium. With 60s newsroom shapes and Mediterranean-inspired hues, it caters to the nomadic creative. The translucent colours and intricate Austrian craftsmanship make it a standout, unmistakably Silhouette.

Distributed by COS: canadianoptical.com

About COS:

For over 70 years, COS has prided itself on its commitment to providing customers with unparalleled service and superior products. Founded in 1951 by Fred and Judith Hochstadter, with the specific goal of offering something truly innovative to independent eye care professionals in Canada, and based in Montreal, COS is a family-run business that represents a wide variety of high-quality frames. They are also Silhouette’s exclusive Canadian distributor since the brand was established in 1964.

The heart of COS business lies in the relationship with each client. The goal of the sales representatives and customer service team is to develop long-term, in-depth ties based upon customer-satisfaction and respect. With every interaction, COS dedicates itself to delivering the exact results that customers desire and their needs require. When it comes to offering truly top of the line service, COS is nothing short of groundbreaking. To further elevate and ensure the quality of the finished product, whether it is a beautiful pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses, the company installed its own finishing lab for the cutting and mounting of lenses along with providing advice to its client base. The in-house lab is one more way that COS has helped streamline the process for customers even further, creating a single contact point for all questions, concerns and feedback.

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September 19, 2024September 19, 2024

Marchon Eyewear and Canada Goose Sign Exclusive Licensing Agreement for Eyewear

Today, Marchon Eyewear and Canada Goose announced that they have entered an exclusive, long-term global licensing agreement.

New sun and optical styles designed under this partnership, the first-ever Canada Goose eyewear collection, will roll out globally starting in North America beginning Spring 2025. Incorporating signature design elements and performance features, all eyewear styles will be crafted with sustainable* materials – an important commitment for both Marchon and Canada Goose.

“In our ongoing effort to add world class partners to our portfolio of brands, we are excited to welcome Canada Goose and bring their performance luxury brand to consumers around the world. Canada Goose shares our dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and design, along with their commitment to using sustainable materials, we are confident their expansion into eyewear will add to the brand’s continued success.”

Thomas Burkhardt, President, Marchon Eyewear

“Our expansion into eyewear marks an exciting new chapter for our brand, emphasizing a commitment to creating a lifestyle of products and deepening our connection with consumers across all seasons. As with every product we create, we will deliver exceptional quality, craftsmanship and protection from the elements – and we know that our partners at Marchon share our vision.”

Dani Reiss, Chairman & CEO, Canada Goose

Canada Goose eyewear will be sold through select optical retailers, department stores, Canada Goose stores, and online at www.canadagoose.com and www.eyeconic.com in the US.

*Sustainable materials for this collection include Eastman Acetate Renew™ (a fully sustainable material produced via Eastman’s innovative carbon renewal technology), Plant-based resin (made from castor-bean oil, a cleaner alternative to petroleum-based plastics), and Titanium.

Click HERE for the press release.

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September 19, 2024September 19, 2024

Responsible Company Prize 2024 – Discover the Finalists

In a context of changing stakeholder expectations, the adoption of a comprehensive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy is becoming essential to strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of companies in the optical sector. To encourage these sustainable approaches, SILMO, in partnership with the HYSSOP agency, has launched the Responsible Company Prize 2024.

This prestigious prize rewards companies that take a global, responsible approach to ethical, environmental and social issues. It is aimed at companies that are actively working towards a more sustainable future, while at the same time being innovative.

A panel of experts met to analyse each entry in detail, taking the time to discuss and evaluate the initiatives carefully. The winner will be announced at the SILMO d’Or Gala on 21 September.

THE FINALISTS ARE:

Andy Wolf

Andy Wolf has put forward a number of strong initiatives, including a guarantee of up to 7 years for the AWearness collection, optimising packaging to reduce its impact and using acetate renew for its frames. The company also stood out from the other contenders with its strong commitment to biodiversity (minimal intervention on sites to ensure biodiversity and soil health), a pre-owned collection, the employment of disabled people in its own workforce, the provision of a sustainable development library for employees, etc.

Friendly Frenchy

For the second year running, Friendly Frenchy is one of the finalists for the Prix de l’entreprise Engagée 2024. The company has ESUS accreditation, a French legal system which certifies that the company’s main objective is to serve a social purpose, but also that it is an exemplary environmental company: Local raw materials derived from waste (recycled shellfish, acetate eyewear production waste), production tools pooled and shared with other economic operators to reduce the need to manufacture or purchase additional equipment, maximum elimination of packaging, repair service instead of sending spare parts, collection of gauges/defective parts and/or after-sales service parts during visits to the workshop so that they can be recycled, etc. The assessors and jury also praised the company’s approach to continuous improvement in relation to its 2023 application.

Opal Demetz

Its strengths include an in-house ideas incubator (La Fabrique), which has offered to work on projects related to the environment (suitcases, travel, second-hand activity), as well as an after-sales service site where customers can order spare parts free of charge (temples and face). The company has also launched a number of initiatives for its employees, including a gym with free classes, extra holidays, partnerships to provide a dry-cleaning service and delivery of personal parcels to the office, etc. As a key player in the eyewear industry, Opal Demetz has shown a real desire to move forward.

Skans

Skans, which has been awarded the BCorp label, has demonstrated that it takes all its impacts into account in order to act accordingly: single-material frames (100% recycled stainless steel, including nose pads, a material that has also been found to have the lowest impact in a life cycle assessment), on-demand production to avoid overstocking, timeless models and packaging to minimise the need for replacement, identical spare parts for all models, etc. The jury and assessors praised the systemic approach and innovative dimension of the company’s actions. Through the ‘Skans Academy’, the company also offers courses on sustainable development to its employees and beyond, as the platform is also open to opticians. In terms of social responsibility, the company goes beyond its already committed 1% for the Planet initiative by donating an additional 1% of its turnover to social causes.

Vanni

As the first Italian company in the eyewear industry to become a “Società Benefit” (the Italian equivalent of a “Mission Company”) in 2021, Vanni has demonstrated that it monitors its social, environmental and community performance in terms of figures and best practices. The company even goes so far as to ask its employees to evaluate its performance in various areas (through a survey). 100% of VANNI’s employees have received training modules on sustainable development (between 5 and 22 hours of training per employee). In 2023/2024, the company carried out an internal reorganisation under the guidance of an organisational psychologist in order to better define the roles and responsibilities of each person and to respond to the needs of employees. With strong local roots, Vanni supports many local organisations in Turin and Piedmont. A cradle-to-gate LCA has also enabled the company to make a number of adjustments to limit the environmental impact of its products.

Click HERE for the press release.

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