IOA Optician of the Year finalists named
Jessica Gowing
Two dispensing opticians (DOs) from the UK are amongst the six finalists for this year’s International Opticians Association (IOA) International Optician of the Year Award, held in partnership with Silmo.
Designed to celebrate “exceptional professionals whose careers exemplify excellence in patient care, education, innovation, entrepreneurship, fashion and service to the global opticianry profession”, the awards will culminate at the Silmo d’Or Awards in Paris on Saturday 26 September when the winner is announced.
“Selected from nominations submitted around the world, this year’s finalists reflect the remarkable diversity of modern opticianry,” stated the IOA.
“From advancing education and mentoring future generations, to pioneering specialist clinical services, building successful businesses, embracing innovation and helping patients both see and look their very best, each finalist has made a significant contribution to the profession and serves as an inspiration to colleagues internationally.”
Martyn Howlett
The UK nominees are Martyn Howlettt and Jessica Gowing.
As senior DO at Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital in London, Jessica has a specialist interest in fitting spectacles for children with craniofacial conditions and other complex facial differences, often incorporating innovative technologies such as 3D printing to create bespoke frames where conventional spectacles cannot provide an adequate fit. Alongside her clinical work, she regularly delivers workshops and teaching sessions for ophthalmic professionals.
Martyn Howlett is senior DO and team lead for the charity SeeAbility. He works with children and young people with learning disabilities, autism and complex needs, developing highly individualised approaches that improve spectacle acceptance and successful wear. Named Dispensing Optician of the Year in 2024, Martyn is also an educator, speaker and passionate advocate for the role of DOs within multidisciplinary care.
The other four finalists are: Cira Collins and Karen Michaelson from the USA, Janine Snatiago from Canada, and Steve Stenersen from New Zealand.