The Contact Lens Institute (CLI) has announced that Olympic figure skater Nancy Kerrigan is the new ambassador for The EASY Way, the organization’s healthy wear‑and‑care initiative designed to help patients adopt safe contact lens habits. Kerrigan—an Olympic medalist, member of the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame, and longtime vision advocate—appears in a new video message aimed at the eye care community.
“A lot of skating success comes from mastering fundamentals early on and sticking with them over time,” Kerrigan says in the video. “That also applies to your contact lens patients, especially for healthy and comfortable wear and care. It’s why Contact Lens Institute offers The EASY Way—three simple steps to improve patient experiences from the start.”
The video is available on CLI’s YouTube channel, joining a series of recorded spots featuring optometrists and opticians across the eye care spectrum.
The EASY Way: Three Simple Steps for Patients
The EASY Way—short for Eyes, Awareness, Safety and You—has been adopted by practices across the U.S., Canada and internationally. The program provides simplified tips, infographics and digital resources that practices can download for free from ContactLensInstitute.org.
The three steps include:
Think Clean Wash and dry hands before touching lenses or eyes. Clean and disinfect reusable lenses with each removal. Never use water to clean lenses or cases.
Remember Fresher is Better Replace lenses on schedule. Wear daily disposables only once. Use fresh solution for reusable lenses and replace lens cases every three months.
Trust Your Eye Doctor Follow professional guidance and contact the practice with any questions.
“As a contact lens wearer myself, I know firsthand how important this is,” Kerrigan adds. “You have to take care of those eyes; you only get one set.”
Supporting Healthy Wear and Care Across the Industry
The EASY Way continues to be a central part of CLI’s mission to promote safe, effective contact lens use and support eye care professionals. CLI’s membership includes Alcon, Bausch + Lomb, CooperVision, and Johnson & Johnson Vision.
As families prepare for a new school year, eye health remains an essential part of every back‑to‑school checklist. With vision playing a critical role in learning and development, August is an important time for parents to schedule eye exams and ensure their children are equipped for success in the classroom and beyond.
Studies show that up to 80% of the information children absorb comes through vision, making healthy eyesight a key foundation for learning, discovery and daily activities. At the same time, children today spend more time than ever on digital devices while continuing to enjoy outdoor activities—two environments that increase exposure to blue light and UV rays.
To support eye care professionals during this busy season, Transitions® has introduced a new collection of back‑to‑school marketing resources developed in collaboration with Ray‑Ban®, one of the world’s most recognizable eyewear brands for children and families.
A Complete Media Toolkit for Practices
The new toolkit features three creative key visual concepts, offering ready‑to‑use materials for:
The campaign centers on a simple but important message: healthy vision helps children learn, play and experience the world around them. Protecting their eyes from UV rays and blue light supports visual comfort throughout the day—whether they are in the classroom, on a device or enjoying time outdoors.
The Ferragamo SF2104S sun frame captures the brand’s understated elegance in acetate, pairing bonded sheets to create subtle colour contrasts. Gradient lenses and contemporary palettes, including transparent options, bring a fresh fashion sensibility, while hot-stamped logos on both temples add a refined signature rooted in Ferragamo heritage.
Working with leading brands to constantly push the envelope through distinct designs, innovative materials and clever constructions, Marchon Eyewear’s goal is to consistently design distinctive eyewear that offers accessible quality, style and value.
Marchon is proud of its diversified portfolio of brands, covering key demand segments in the premium end of the market.
Marchon Eyewear distributes its products through a global network of subsidiaries and distributors, serving over 80,000 accounts in more than 100 countries.
Whether helping people access quality care, supporting eye care providers in managing their practice, or partnering with local organizations to aid our communities, VSP Vision™ is there with a comprehensive portfolio of brands that keep health at the center of everything we do. As the first not-for-profit eye health company, care and compassion have led our growth for nearly 70 years. Today, our focus remains on helping those we serve bring their best vision to life.
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Kaven Dyotte was born and raised in Quebec. By the age of 17, he found himself homeless and struggling with drug addiction while trying to escape the wrong side of the tracks and live life on his own terms. Eventually, he hit rock bottom, and in that moment, Kaven decided to completely turn his life around. He chose sobriety, family, art, nature, and the determination to build something meaningful through fashion and creativity.
His strength and resilience helped him reclaim his mojo and begin a new chapter as a hardworking man with a vision all his own. When you meet Kaven, one of the first things you notice is his fearless sense of style. He effortlessly mixes patterns and colours in ways many would never dare, yet on him, it simply works. That confidence and individuality are exactly where his story begins.
Path to Independence
At 21, Kaven entered the optical industry. Fashion had originally been his goal, but opportunities were limited, as many head offices focused on Milan and Los Angeles. Through a friend, he was introduced to optics and given an opportunity with Gucci. Although that path did not work out, it opened the door to an entirely new world. After exploring distribution, Kaven ultimately decided to create his own brand and carve out his own identity within the industry.
Afterbang Familia was born in 2016
Kaven immersed himself in every detail of the business. He began designing his own parts and materials, including screws, hinges, wire cores, and acetate selections, while working closely with a small contractor to bring his ideas to life. Customers quickly recognized the quality, originality, and service behind Afterbang, and within only a few years, the collection had expanded into towns and provinces across Canada.
One story still makes Kaven smile. Early in his career, he spotted an older woman wearing one of his frames and became so excited that he ran over to compliment her glasses. Startled by his enthusiasm, she nearly called the police, unsure why this stranger was approaching her so passionately. Kaven quickly explained that he was the designer and was overwhelmed with gratitude to see something that had once existed only in his imagination being worn in real life. Even today, he recalls the story with sparkling eyes and a childlike smile.
There is something magnetic about Kaven. During our interview, I was struck by his sparkling eyes, thunderous laugh, and warm demeanour. You cannot help but be drawn into his story.
His representatives remain deeply committed to both of his collections, Afterbang and Jean Michel, which he acquired several years ago. One collection is more niche and fashion forward, while the other offers a versatile passe-partout appeal suited to a broad range of optical offices.
A Family Affair
As the company continued to grow, Kaven was joined in 2024 by his partner, Andrée-Ann, who is also the mother of his four children. Together, they have built a life that balances family and business, supporting one another through the constant demands of both.
Kaven trusts his instincts, and that authenticity has become a defining part of his success. He remains deeply connected to his customers and has personally called each of them to thank them for their support. Human connection matters to him, and that philosophy is woven into everything he does.
Kaven travels across the country supporting his collections, representatives, and customers, while always making time for family. Occasionally, he extends work trips so he can bring the children along, sometimes joined by Andrée-Ann or his mother, creating moments of connection in the middle of a demanding schedule.
A Passion and Life in Harmony
I have known Kaven for over ten years, and it has been incredible watching him continue to grow and succeed. He is easy to root for because his collections, his style, and his genuine care for people make this designer and rockstar road warrior unforgettable.
He loves his work and his life behind Mont Saint Hilaire. Outside the industry, he enjoys gardening with the children, hiking, and walking among the deer. His love of nature and family blends beautifully with the life he has worked so hard to create.
There is something deeply inspiring about witnessing someone completely transform the direction of their life. Kaven’s story is proof that resilience, passion, and authenticity can carry a person far, and that success means far more when it is built with heart.
About the Author:
Suzanne Sendel
Suzanne Sendel is an optical distributor who left the world of interior design and architectural sales management by falling in love with a pair of hand painted glasses, 11 years ago. Through her travels, Suzanne has inspired many with her independent collections, and her passion for optical fashion, and in sharing her stories and the many sales teams of “Road Warriors”, who have inspired the optical industry. Through her lens, Suzanne will share their journey and what has made them an integral part of the success of our industry. Reach her at suzannesendel@gmail.com.
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AYA Optical has introduced its latest artist collaboration, the Wind Warriors Collection, created with acclaimed Lakota and Onondaga artist Jim Yellowhawk. The new release blends Indigenous artistry with motorcycle culture, debuting at two major venues: the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and the Oyate Health Center.
The collection marks a bold new chapter for AYA Optical, known for its long‑standing partnerships with Indigenous artists across North America. Wind Warriors introduces three handcrafted eyewear styles—Steel Pony, Iron Horse and Free Spirit—each featuring original Yellowhawk artwork integrated directly into the frame design.
“Jim’s artwork captures movement, courage and identity in a way that immediately connects with people,” said Carla D’Angelo, Founder of AYA Optical. “With Wind Warriors, we wanted to celebrate both the freedom of the open road and the cultural stories behind the art. Every frame supports Indigenous artists in a meaningful way.”
Handcrafted Eyewear with Cultural Storytelling
Steel Pony
A contemporary clubmaster‑inspired frame crafted in premium acetate with spring hinges. The temples feature Yellowhawk’s Cetangi Iron Horse Motorcycle artwork, creating a refined style that bridges heritage and modern design.
Steel Pony
Iron Horse
A bold rectangular frame designed for larger faces, featuring rivet detailing and dramatic temple artwork inspired by the Indian Chief Roadmaster motorcycle. A subtle ledger‑art motif adds a distinctive Indigenous design element.
Iron Horse
Free Spirit
A versatile unisex frame available in striated blue‑grey or brown‑grey acetate. The temples showcase Yellowhawk’s signature motorcycle artwork, offering an expressive yet wearable everyday style.
Free spirit
Celebrating Indigenous Art and Entrepreneurship
Since 2009, AYA Optical has collaborated directly with Indigenous artists to create eyewear that honours authentic cultural expression while generating meaningful economic opportunities. Each frame includes artist story cards, premium packaging and detailed artwork that connects wearers to the artist behind the design.
The Wind Warriors Collection will be showcased at Sturgis alongside Jim Yellowhawk and other Indigenous creators, highlighting the intersection of art, culture and contemporary design. Following its debut, the collection will be available through AYA Optical authorized retailers across Canada and the United States.
Academy 2026 Anaheim showcased major research, innovation and leadership in optometry, featuring landmark studies, new Fellows and advances shaping the future of eye care.
ZEISS gathered eye care professionals in Vancouver for the Myopia Innovation Summit, introducing MyoActive and showcasing evidence based strategies for myopia management.
Learn how early optometry practice succession planning can improve practice value, reduce owner dependence, protect tax eligibility, and create a smoother transition.
CIBC Commercial Banking is stepping into Canadian optometry through a new collaboration with Eye Care Business Canada, debuting with a webinar on buying an optometric practice.
Academy 2026 Anaheim showcased major research, innovation and leadership in optometry, featuring landmark studies, new Fellows and advances shaping the future of eye care.
ZEISS gathered eye care professionals in Vancouver for the Myopia Innovation Summit, introducing MyoActive and showcasing evidence based strategies for myopia management.
Learn how early optometry practice succession planning can improve practice value, reduce owner dependence, protect tax eligibility, and create a smoother transition.
CIBC Commercial Banking is stepping into Canadian optometry through a new collaboration with Eye Care Business Canada, debuting with a webinar on buying an optometric practice.
Academy 2026 Anaheim showcased major research, innovation and leadership in optometry, featuring landmark studies, new Fellows and advances shaping the future of eye care.
ZEISS gathered eye care professionals in Vancouver for the Myopia Innovation Summit, introducing MyoActive and showcasing evidence based strategies for myopia management.
Learn how early optometry practice succession planning can improve practice value, reduce owner dependence, protect tax eligibility, and create a smoother transition.
CIBC Commercial Banking is stepping into Canadian optometry through a new collaboration with Eye Care Business Canada, debuting with a webinar on buying an optometric practice.
Academy 2026 Anaheim showcased major research, innovation and leadership in optometry, featuring landmark studies, new Fellows and advances shaping the future of eye care.
ZEISS gathered eye care professionals in Vancouver for the Myopia Innovation Summit, introducing MyoActive and showcasing evidence based strategies for myopia management.
Learn how early optometry practice succession planning can improve practice value, reduce owner dependence, protect tax eligibility, and create a smoother transition.
CIBC Commercial Banking is stepping into Canadian optometry through a new collaboration with Eye Care Business Canada, debuting with a webinar on buying an optometric practice.
