International Women’s Day 2026: Give to gain

In 2026 the movement recognises 115 years of this work.

This year, the theme for International Women’s Day is Give to Gain, emphasising the power of reciprocity and support.

The organisers state: “When people, organisations, and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. Giving is not a subtraction, it’s international multiplication. When women thrive, we all rise.”

In recognition, OT asked eye care professionals to share a story about one woman who has given their time, knowledge, or mentoring, to support them in their career.

Hayley Brunsden, optometrist and founder of CBTR Opticians

“One woman who has been incredibly inspiring to me, and someone I would consider a true role model, is Jill McLellan, managing director of Nikon Lenswear UK. Jill has always championed and supported my ideas in business (no matter how ambitious they might seem). She has truly paved the way for women in optics, and one of my favourite things about working with Nikon is being constantly surrounded by strong, inspiring women. Jill’s belief in me has given me the confidence to back myself, push boundaries, and think bigger in my business.”

“Another wonderful woman who has had a huge impact on me is Debby Coath. Debby is an independent eyewear agent who truly bosses the optics game, but does so with such infectious energy and warmth. She is an absolute joy to be around and continually inspires me to be the best version of myself, both professionally and personally. Her passion, positivity and generosity with her time in supporting my new business have been nothing short of amazing, and something I will be forever grateful for.”

Hayley Brunsden

Hayley with Debby Coath

Dr Pretty Basra, optometrist, CEO, and business and mental fitness mentor

Dr Pretty Basra

“During my pre-registration year at Leicester Royal Infirmary, Alka Patel played a pivotal role in shaping my early career in optometry. Being away from home for the first time, she went far beyond professional supervision, offering genuine care, support, and even welcoming me into her home.”

“Clinically, she empowered me to develop confidence in paediatric refraction, encouraging me not to shy away from seeing children and showing me how diverse and rewarding hospital optometry could be. Her belief in me at such an early stage had a lasting impact on my confidence and the way I approach mentoring others today.”

Her belief in me at such an early stage had a lasting impact on my confidence and the way I approach mentoring others today

Stephanie Lipsey-Liu, optometrist director of Charles Lea Opticians and domiciliary provider, Freedom Eyecare

“For International Women’s Day, I’m celebrating two incredible women who shaped my journey in optometry. During my pre-reg year, my supervisor, Kiran Sinha, guided me not only with her exceptional clinical knowledge and wizard-level refractions, but with unwavering personal support. She welcomed me into her home, invited me to family dinners and even Indian dancing with her daughter — reminding me that mentorship is about more than optics.”

“I’m equally grateful to Noirin Kylie, an outstanding orthoptist whose depth of knowledge continues to inspire me.

“Both are brilliant clinicians, generous mentors, and cherished friends. Optometry is stronger because of women like them.”

Stephanie Lipsey-Liu

Stephanie (right) with Fiona (middle) and Noirin (left)

Optometry is stronger because of women like them

Dr Lindsay Rountree, assistant professor in optometry at the University of Bradford, and Women in Vision UK’s optometry undergraduate co-lead

“Dr Sam Strong is the reason I found out about Women in Vision UK. I met her at a conference, when I was just starting my PhD. Sam is one of those people who seems to get loads of things done. I am forever picking her brain and stealing her ideas, which are all excellent, she is really good to bounce ideas off of. She is also someone who is so enthusiastic – I always feel like I am the most pessimistic person in the world when I talk to her, because, her outlook on life is amazing – I wish I had it.”

Dr Lindsay Rountree

Dr Lindsay Rountree and Dr Sam Strong in fancy dress

“I also reflect on the team of pre-reg supervisors I had and one in particular who always had time for me and encouraged me to get involved in extra things. This pre-reg supervisor always involved me and would encourage me to sign up to some of the extra training that they were doing, suggesting: ‘This will definitely help you. Even though you haven’t passed the basics yet, let’s do the extra stuff. Let’s look at how the practice is running.’ I really enjoyed that.”