AOP appoints new Councillors to advance student and early career representation

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) welcomes four new Councillors to represent Optometrist in training (OIT) and Newly-qualified optometrist (NQ) members, as part of the AOP’s updated Council structure.

The changes reflect the changing landscape of optometry education and training, and ensure that Council continues to represent members effectively at each stage of their journey into the profession.

The new OIT1, OIT2, NQ1 and NQ2 roles provide representation from distinct points in the transition from study to qualification and early practice. OIT1 and OIT2 will represent student members in their penultimate and final undergraduate years completing their final qualifying assessments, while NQ1 and NQ2 will represent and those entering their first roles as qualified optometrists.

The updated positions will offer the Council direct insight into the experiences of members as they progress through training, qualification and into practice.

The newly appointed members are:

• Charlotte Quick – Optometrist in training 1 (OIT1)
• Juwaria Khan – Optometrist in training 2 (OIT2)
• Deepali Poojara – Newly-qualified optometrist 1 (NQ1)
• Bilaal Asif – Newly-qualified optometrist 2 (NQ2).

Speaking on the potential impact of her contribution, Deepali Poojara, AOP NQ1 Councillor, said: “I hope to be a relatable voice for newly-qualified optometrists, helping colleagues feel supported, confident and excited about the opportunities available within our profession. I am passionate about encouraging both personal and professional development showing that there are many different pathways to build a rewarding career in optometry.”

The introduction of the updated roles supports the AOP in aligning with the changing pathways into the profession and future-proofing Council representation.

Charlotte Quick, AOP Optometrist in training 1 Councillor, said: “I’m passionate about representing my fellow students and ensuring that students from all backgrounds have the support and opportunities they need to succeed in optometry. I hope that my contribution will help to ensure that the student voice is considered, particularly as we adapt to the new CLiP pathway into qualification. I want to bring the experiences and concerns of current students navigating these changes and help turn their feedback into meaningful change.”

Adam Sampson, AOP Chief Executive, said: “The AOP is committed to improving representation across the profession, and these new roles ensure those entering optometry consistently have a seat at the table. The updated structure reflects the realities of modern education and training, and our newly appointed Councillors will bring valuable insight into the experiences of students and early career members.”

Nizz Sabir, AOP Board Chair, said: “We are delighted to welcome our new Councillors. These roles are vital in ensuring that members at the earliest stage of their careers are represented in our discussions and decision making. Each appointee brings a strong understanding of the journey into optometry, and their contributions will help ensure Council remains informed and reflective of the profession as it continues to evolve.”

The new Councillors will take up their positions in September 2026, in line with the September – September cycle.

For more information on the updated Council positions, visit www.aop.org.uk/appointments 

Ends

For more information, please contact Anjola Sulaiman, Media Communications and PR Manager, at the Association of Optometrists, [email protected] or telephone 020 7549 2062.

Notes to Editors

Association of Optometrists

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) is the voice of the optical profession, representing over 80% of practising optometrists. The AOP elevates the work of its members, safeguards their interests, and champions eye health across the UK. For more information, visit www.aop.org.uk