by Shan Khan, RO
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.
Eye Care and Kim Manias
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.
Christine Zeggil
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.
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