Optometrists, opticians: Tradition of excellence continued

In 1924, a small group of dedicated eye health practitioners came together and founded the South African Optical Association (at the time) to provide a home for Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians, to promote eye health and vision care, and to address the professional needs of members. In addition, the intent was, and continues to be, to attain the highest level of eye health and visual well-being for all South Africans.

To commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the South African Optometric Association (SAOA), the SAOA Centennial Celebration Conference was held at Emperors Palace, Ekurhuleni, in July. Almost eight hundred delegates attended the SAOA Centennial Celebration Conference, which included optometrists, Dispensing Opticians, students, and representatives from industry. The theme of the event embraced the spirit of celebrating the SAOA’s 100-year anniversary underpinned by the slogan ‘A tradition of Excellence, the Force of the Future’.

Opening ceremony

The event began with iconic singer Vicky Sampson leading the singing of the national anthem. The Opening Ceremony thereafter encompassed the official Welcome Address by SAOA President Nivien Subramany. This was followed by an acknowledgement of all past SAOA presidents in attendance, all of whom were presented with a presidential pin, medal, and a copy of the SAOA ‘Tradition of Excellence’ Booklet.

The Ceremony included a tribute to all conference sponsors, preceded by a salute to industry legend Hilly Goldberg, who recently turned 102 years old. Congratulatory messages were presented by leaders of organisations relevant to South African professions of Optometry and Dispensing Opticianry, including the President of the World Council of Optometry, the President of the African Council of Optometry, and the Chairperson of the Professional Board of Optometry and Dispensing Opticians, among others.

A moving keynote address was delivered by stalwart Peter Brauer, entitled, ‘A Walk Down Memory Lane’, which involved recognition of the youngest SAOA member, Priyanka Jugdeo, 22 years, and most senior SAOA member, Sidney Saks, 95 years, who received a standing ovation. The Opening Ceremony closed with an inspirational rendition of the ‘African Dream’ by Vicky Sampson. Very few dry eyes in the house.

Academic programme

The academic programme consisted of five tracks, each representing a mix of high-standard lectures, paper presentations, workshops, and posters, involving both local and international speakers.

Trade exhibition

The world-class trade exhibition, comprising 61 exhibitors, located in the Centre Court of Emperors Palace, was the focal point where delegates had access to the latest technology relating to optical devices and equipment and congregated to converse, enjoy refreshments, and engage with members of the industry.

Gala dinner

Arguably, the highlight of the event was the masterful facilitation by well-known radio personality Zain Johnson, the Master of Ceremonies, and entertainment and music provided by the extremely talented Morning After.

The evening included the presentation of Centennial Celebration awards by SAOA President Nivien Subramany and Vice President Sandy Govender, supported by SAOA Marketing Administrator Noko Thema, across the spectrum of award categories.

Concluding comments

“Our Centennial Celebration Conference was the culmination of three years of intensive planning. The end result, based on feedback received from delegates and sponsors to date, was that the already high expectations of the SAOA Board and organising committee were significantly exceeded. A special thank you to all our sponsors, who are listed below, and partners, namely the Conference Company, for an event that has been described by many as ‘out of this world “. Nivien Subramany, SAOA President.