Practitioners recognised for leadership in OWA awards

Two practitioners were recognised for their leadership and contributions to the profession in the inaugural Dame Mary Perkins and Optical Women’s Association (OWA) awards.

Optometrist Krupa Mistry and dispensing optician Fiona Anderson were presented with the accolades during 100% Optical, which took place at Excel London (28 February–2 March).

Mistry, an advanced clinical optometrist at St Thomas’ Hospital, received the Emerging Leader Recognition Award that celebrates a rising star in optics who has demonstrated strong leadership potential, excellence in practice and the ability to make a meaningful impact early in their career. She was recognised for her dedication to clinical excellence, teaching and mentorship.

Mistry told OT that is was “an honour” to receive the first Dame Mary Perkins and OWA Emerging Leadership Recognition Reflecting on 10 years as a qualified optometrist, she said: “As a woman in healthcare and leadership, this recognition is a reminder of the importance of visibility, representation and lifting one another up. I’m proud to add my voice to a community of inspiring women who continue to lead and empower the next generation to step forward with confidence, even when they feel unsure, and to know that their place at the table is deserved.”

Anderson received the Leadership Recognition Award, which celebrates a woman in the industry who has shown exceptional commitment to advancing the leadership and progression of women within the optical field.

Reflecting on the award, Anderson told OT: “The award was a complete ‘bolt from the blue’.”

She added: “I was deeply honoured to be the first recipient, and to receive an award for doing a job I love was completely awesome.  I love the mix of art, science and communicating with people. I only hope that others in the sector are as fortunate in their vocation as I have been.”

The awards were presented by Dame Mary Perkins, founder of Specsavers, who congratulated the two women on their achievements.

She said: “Optics used to be a very male-dominated profession when I started out back in the 60s. I am delighted that has changed over the decades as more and more women have been encouraged to study STEM subjects at school as it is an excellent career for women, offering a combination of healthcare, fashion and customer service.”

“These awards recognise women who are leading by example and are a credit to the entire optical industry,” Dame Mary added.