AYA Eyewear introduces Luna, a chic cat-eye frame featuring colour blocking and a stunning humpback whale detail by artist Phil Gray. Available in crystal grey and purple, Luna supports Indigenous youth with partial proceeds benefiting the Urban Native Youth Association (UNYA).
We believe that art is transformative, and that eyewear can be the canvas to share stories and art from around the world. AYA Eyewear was first launched in 2009 in collaboration with renowned First Nations Artist Corrine Hunt and has continued to flourish and grow every year.
We are committed to the details and realize that beautiful design takes time, precision, and attention, so we don’t cut corners. We stand by our product. We treat our artists as our partners and make sure that their stories and art are always shared in the most heartfelt authentic way.
We take pride in our service and seek opportunities to give back to the communities we serve and the artist’s charities of choice.
AYA Eyewear is truly a brand that stands out from the crowd and is loved by Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike.
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To celebrate the new year, AYA Optical has released a first-of-its-kind eyewear capsule featuring ledger art by celebrated Lakota multimedia artist Jim Yellowhawk. The collection pairs Jim’s extraordinary artwork with handmade acetates inspired by buffalo horn materials, creating modern eyewear for the global marketplace, that pays tribute to revered symbols from Lakota culture. As always, partial proceeds from the sale of this collection will be donated to communities in need.
Jim Yellowhawk comes from a family of artists from the Itazipco Band of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe.He has been immersed in the art of his ancestors since his youth. A master of ledger art, collage, and modern mediums like neon light, and even dance, Jim’s art is a vivid celebration of culture, resilience, and storytelling. His work is rich with symbolism, featuring motifs like the eagle and buffalo, which reflect the circle of life and unity in Lakota culture. Jim’s work is deeply rooted in the tradition of Plains Indian ledger art, a narrative form that thrived from the 1860s to the 1920s and experienced a revival in the 1960s. Named for the ledger books that Plains Indians repurposed for canvases, ledger art tells stories and expresses cultural identity through drawings and paintings on cloth or paper.
Yellowhawk says, “Traditional spirituality is woven into my daily life, work, practices, and way of being. It keeps me in balance and guides my creative processes. The horse, buffalo, elk, geese, and eagle nations are often represented in my art, in honor of the four winds. While my art comprises diverse media forms, my current passion is for ledger art, a traditional way of recording history for the native peoples in America. My techniques vary according to the feel of each piece. I like to experiment and challenge myself. I would like to leave my mark as an artist in a way that serves all people, and I very much hope to provide a strong and positive role model for native youth.”
Jim Yellowhawk with his artworkLedger Art
The artwork of Jim Yellowhawk can be found in some of the most interesting corners of the world, including galleries and private collections worldwide. A blanket design of his was featured last year in Italian Vogue, and his art now will be made available on three striking AYA optical frames.
“I discovered Jim’s beautiful artwork in Italian Photo Vogue, and I just knew I had to work with him. Fast forward to today, and I am thrilled to be presenting Jim’s immense talent to a wider audience via our eyewear capsule.”
Carla D’Angelo, AYA founder
Introducing Ledger, a bold eyewear style crafted from high-quality custom acetate inspired by buffalo horn materials. As the first collaboration between Jim Yellowhawk and AYA Optical, Ledger draws inspiration from the rich tradition of Plains Indian ledger art. Adorned with Yellowhawk’s dynamic Buffalo Nation artwork, subtle numbers featured in the background, reflecting the ledger paper that inspired this unique art form. Available in two sophisticated colours warm havana brown, and rich charcoal gray.
Bausch + Lomb Corporation and Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF), a national nonprofit organization dedicated to curing glaucoma, are launching the second annual “Faces of Glaucoma” campaign. The campaign, which will highlight diverse patient stories and raise awareness of the second leading cause of blindness worldwide will take place throughout January for Glaucoma Awareness Month.
“It’s estimated that half of people with glaucoma don’t know that they have it, demonstrating a need for continuing education and awareness efforts. In collaboration with Glaucoma Research Foundation, we aim to encourage people to take an active role in understanding and managing their risk, starting with seeing an eye doctor.”
Andrew Stewart, president, Global Pharmaceuticals and International Consumer, Bausch + Lomb
Throughout January, Bausch + Lomb and GRF will spotlight educational resources and share stories of individuals and families living with glaucoma to raise awareness of the disease and encourage proactive eye health management. In addition, for the fourth consecutive year, Bausch + Lomb will support a fundraising challenge in which every dollar raised will be matched up to $20,000. These funds will support GRF research into a potential glaucoma cure.
Glaucoma symptoms can develop gradually and may go unnoticed. Although there is currently no cure for glaucoma, early intervention—including prescription eye drops—can help slow the disease’s progression. Only an eye care professional can diagnose glaucoma, typically through a yearly comprehensive dilated eye exam.
“While glaucoma is often thought of as an older person’s disease, it’s important to understand that it can impact anyone, regardless of race, age or gender. This year we build on our previous efforts by highlighting a new group of diverse patient stories to bring to life the many faces of glaucoma,” said Thomas M. Brunner, president & CEO, Glaucoma Research Foundation. “We are grateful for the ongoing partnership with Bausch + Lomb and excited to be working with them again this year during Glaucoma Awareness Month.”
Ehrlich JR, Burke-Conte Z, Wittenborn JS, et al. Prevalence of Glaucoma Among US Adults in 2022. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2024;142(11):1046–1053. doi:10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.3884
In 2025, the MIDO exhibition layouts will undergo significant changes to provide visitors with an even more engaging and innovative experience.
The Design area: a realm of creativity and vision
One of the key innovations concerns pavilions 2 and 4, that will continue to host the iconic Designarea. This space, featuring the industry’s most visionary creatives, is a laboratory of experimentation where shapes and materials combine to narrate the many faces of eyewear. The reorganization of the spaces in 2025 will allow MIDO to welcome a significant number of new exhibitors and the expansion of some stands. In addition, the return of some notable past exhibitors will further elevate this already extremely popular and highly appreciated area.
New location for the Academy
The Academy – a sought-after area featuring companies whose focus is on designer originality and creativity – is relocating. From pavilion 2, it will return to pavilion6, historically set aside for Tech. This change marks a new phase for the Academy, that will bring creative energy to an area focused on technological innovation. The synergy between these two vital forces – design and technology – will offer visitors a unique experience, inspiring new connections between cutting-edge styles and technical advances.
The piazzas: nerve centers of the show
Even the piazzas, MIDO’s nerve centers, will undergo some alterations. The famous Fashion Square, crossroads for the big brands and a magnet for connoisseurs of fashion and luxury, will be updated to make it more functional.
Special attention will be focused on the piazzas in pavilions 2-4, cornerstone of the Design area. These spaces, which have consistently embodied creativity and innovation, aim to further enhance the visitor experience and thus strengthen their role as the epicenter of visionary trends.
Thanks to these changes, MIDO 2025 promises to exceed all expectations, delivering an exhibition journey that celebrates excellence in all its forms – from luxury to technology, by way of avant-garde design.
In this and subsequent issues, Optik spotlights remarkable women leaders shaping the future of our industry. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise contribute to a rich tapestry of leadership. Join us as we explore their professional and personal journeys through engaging Q&A sessions, offering invaluable insights and advice.
Share your journey in the eye care field and what motivated you to choose this path?
Sue Randhawa: My career choice has been perfect because it intersects my two favourite subject areas – the artistry of fashion and the precision of science. This cross section forms the bedrock of my business and for me it’s been a great formula.
How do you approach mentorship, and what advice would you give to young women aspiring to excel in our industry?
SR: I prioritize teaching without criticism and foster an environment where problem-solving is a collaborative effort. I strive to work alongside my team, ensuring that no one feels inferior. Continuous learning is a cornerstone of my philosophy. I recognize the importance of personal growth and development in each person every day.
What advice can you offer to those seeking to balance a demanding career and a busy personal life?
SR: Maintaining work-life balance is a top priority. Regular check-ins with my staff are a routine part of my management approach. Starting my day with meditation and spending time outdoors has proven to be vital for my well-being.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
SR: In 2019, my husband and I experienced the incredible diversity of India, a country rich in food, music, textiles, and architecture. India doesn’t just invite you – it calls to you, and it certainly called to me.
In what ways do you believe your work has contributed to innovations or changes in the field?
SR: On an ordinary day, I assist people in improving their vision. On an extraordinary day, I not only enhance their vision but I also boost their confidence and self-esteem through the right eyewear choices. I have a lot of extraordinary days!
What is your favorite book, and how has it influenced you?
Darcy Huda, with a BSc in Health Studies from the University of Waterloo, has excelled in a 22-year career at Johnson & Johnson, now as Sr. Manager of Salesforce Excellence. She serves on the Board of Directors for Operation Smile Canada. Darcy enjoys beekeeping as a hobby!
Share your journey in the eye care field and what motivated you to choose this career path?
Darcy Huda: I joined J&J Vision in 2009, drawn by the balance of clinical and business acumen it required, matching my practical experience and science education. Over 14 years, the dedication of my team and Canadian eye care professionals have inspired my commitment to advancing patient care and promoting healthy sight. What kept me here for so long is the people.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to excel in the profession?
DH: My advice is to cultivate a strong network of mentors and peers. Seek guidance from those who have walked similar paths and build relationships with people who will be honest and push you. Embrace continuous learning, stay informed about industry trends, and don’t shy away from advocating for your ideas. Lastly, find your unique voice within the field. A diversity of perspective is invaluable in driving innovation and progress.
What advice can you offer to those seeking to balance a demanding career and a busy personal life?
DH: Finding and maintaining a balance between a career and a personal life isn’t easy and no one will do it for you. For too long, I didn’t do this well and both my personal wellbeing and my relationships suffered.
I advise intentional time blocking for personal pursuits, and passion projects. It’s an ongoing journey, requiring flexibility and recognition that priorities may shift. The key is mindfulness, being kind to yourself, and making purposeful choices aligned with your values and goals.
Outside of the profession, what are your hobbies or passions, and how do they enrich your life?
DH: Working for Johnson & Johnson, I learned about Operation Smile back in 2015 and have been passionately involved in different ways ever since with this incredible organization that helps to provide safe and equitable access to surgery and healthcare. Five billion people around the world don’t have access to safe surgical care and without that, they will never be able to fulfill their potential. Partnerships like that of Operation Smile and Johnson & Johnson are playing an important role in helping to achieve this.
I’m a hobby beekeeper and have had two beehives in our backyard for the last four years. The summer of 2020, like everyone else, I found myself at home looking for a positive way to spend that time. I started Bee Good Honey after taking a University of Guelph course and getting supplies from Humble Bee in Hamilton. Since then, I started our Bee Good Honey brand. All proceeds from our sales go to Operation Smile – over $10,000 to date!
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
DH: Traveling, meeting people, and learning about different cultures has taught me so much and provided me with a deeper sense of gratitude for the blessed life and opportunities I have been afforded. I’ve been to 32 countries and counting. Where to next? Hopefully volunteering again in my first post-pandemic surgical program with Operation Smile in Africa or Asia…but I’ll go anywhere they need me!
The insights from these visionary women leaders 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 more trailblazers in our series of women leaders, stay tuned for further inspiration. Their enduring influence promises to inspire current and future generations of eye care professionals, illustrating the power of leadership and vision in shaping a healthier, more visionary world.
HOYA Vision Care introduces LensPreview, a new virtual try-on tool for photochromic, polarized, and mirror lenses, now available in the U.S. and Canada.
HOYA Vision Care introduces LensPreview, a new virtual try-on tool for photochromic, polarized, and mirror lenses, now available in the U.S. and Canada.
HOYA Vision Care introduces LensPreview, a new virtual try-on tool for photochromic, polarized, and mirror lenses, now available in the U.S. and Canada.
HOYA Vision Care introduces LensPreview, a new virtual try-on tool for photochromic, polarized, and mirror lenses, now available in the U.S. and Canada.
