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The Optometry Wales Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of eye care professionals across Wales. From clinical excellence and innovation to mentorship and sustainability, these awards recognise the individuals and practices that go above and beyond to support patients, colleagues, and communities.
Below you’ll find the categories and this year’s shortlisted nominees. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony.
Optometrist of the Year
Recognising an optometrist who has demonstrated exceptional clinical skill, patient care, and commitment to advancing the profession.
Shortlisted nominees:
Andy Britton
Emily Couling
Ian Jones
Kelly Gibson
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Multiple Practice of the Year
Celebrating excellence in a multiple practice that consistently delivers outstanding service, patient experience, and innovation across its team.
Shortlisted nominees:
Specsavers Haverfordwest
Specsavers Kingsway Swansea
Specsavers Merthyr
Specsavers Porthcawl
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Independent Practice of the Year
Honouring an independent practice that exemplifies high standards of clinical care, community engagement, and business innovation.
Shortlisted nominees:
Davies & Jones (Talbot Green)
Jane Smellie Opticians
Julian Davies Opticians (Whitchurch)
MN Charlton (Concept Eye Clinic)
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Student of the Year
Awarded to a student who has shown dedication, professionalism, and an outstanding contribution to the future of optometry.
Shortlisted nominees:
Emily Taylor
Elysse Hubbard
Kristina Wramba
Maia Warrack
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Mentor of the Year
Recognising an inspiring mentor who has provided exceptional guidance, support, and encouragement to colleagues or students.
Shortlisted nominees:
Angela Whitaker
Claire Edwards
Gareth Williams
Marc Drake
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Rising Star
Celebrating a newcomer to the profession who has already made a significant impact through their enthusiasm, innovation, and commitment.
Shortlisted nominees:
Adib Missaghi
Alexander O’Brien
Harpreet Singh Bahra
Nkosi Yearwood
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Dispensing Optician / Contact Lens Optician of the Year
Honouring a dispensing or contact lens optician who has gone above and beyond to provide expert care and support to patients.
Shortlisted nominees:
Cath Coles
Gavin Cooper
Matthew Barefoot
Samantha Houghton
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Optical Assistant of the Year
Recognising an optical assistant who has demonstrated dedication, professionalism, and outstanding service in supporting patients and practice teams.
Shortlisted nominees:
Alice Swales
Ben Butcher
Christopher Rosser
Max Horler
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Sustainability Practice of the Year
Celebrating a practice that has made significant efforts to operate sustainably, reduce its environmental impact, and champion greener practices.
Shortlisted nominees:
Specsavers Haverfordwest
Specsavers Monmouth
South Wales Low Vision Clinic
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Collaborative Working
Awarded to a practice that has shown exceptional collaboration with other healthcare providers, professionals, or community organisations to enhance patient care.
Shortlisted nominees:
Boots Opticians, Bridgend
Cardiff University Eye Clinic
Specsavers, All Cardiff area stores
Specsavers Haverfordwest
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Health Board Support
Recognising outstanding contributions by a health board or its staff in supporting eye health services across Wales.
Shortlisted nominees:
Catherine McNamara
HDUHB Optometric Team
Kelly Gibson
Raf Islam
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Technology Practice of the Year
Celebrating a practice that has embraced innovation and technology to enhance patient care, streamline services, or improve accessibility.
Shortlisted nominees:
Julian Davies Opticians (Whitchurch)
Specsavers Haverfordwest
South Wales Low Vision Clinic
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✨ Congratulations to all shortlisted nominees! Your dedication and passion continue to drive excellence in eye care across Wales.