Industry News
Finalists for International Optician of the Year Award Revealed
The International Opticians’ Association and SILMO Paris, the premier global gathering for the optical and eyewear industry, have unveiled the finalists for the prestigious International Optician of the Year Award (IOA). Recognised as a celebration of excellence, innovation, and vision care leadership, the award will be presented during a special ceremony on Saturday, September 27, as part of the industry-leading SILMO Paris trade show running from September 26–29 at the Paris Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre.
The 2025 IOA Award shortlist features seven distinguished opticians from across North America and Europe, each demonstrating outstanding commitment to innovation, patient care, and professional advancement:
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Kim Jurina – Licensed optician & Founder of Eye Stylist, Canada
Known for her client-first approach, Jurina redefines optical care by combining clarity, confidence, and compassion through personalised eyewear styling services. -
Charlie Saccarelli – Licensed optician & CEO of Chadwick Optical, United States
A pioneer in specialty optics, Saccarelli is recognised for pushing boundaries in clinical care and tackling inefficiencies within the healthcare system. -
Barry E. Santini – Licensed optician & President of Long Island Opticians, United States
With over 50 years of industry experience, Santini blends technical precision with innovation to elevate standards in vision care. -
William Snelgrove – Licensed Optician, Co-founder of Kawartha Vision Care & Director at the Ontario Opticians Association, Canada
Snelgrove’s work exemplifies how advanced optical technology and compassionate service can transform patient experiences. -
Blair Wong – Licensed Optician, Chair of Eye Health Technology at Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology, Executive Director of the Opticians Association of Massachusetts, Chair of GoodVision USA, United States
Wong, who is blind and lives with retinitis pigmentosa, is lauded for his advocacy work and for spearheading sustainable global vision care initiatives. -
Frits Van Den Bosch – Licensed optician & Optical business owner, Belgium
Van Den Bosch’s focus on client-centric design and service has set a benchmark for optical retail excellence in Europe.
The International Optician of the Year Award, supported by the International Opticians Association (IOA), celebrates professionals who exemplify the highest standards in optical practice, education, and innovation. The award is a highlight of SILMO Paris, which continues to be “the place to be, to see, and to foresee” for the global optical community.
