Six high-calibre dispensing opticians have been selected as finalists in this year’s edition of the International Opticians’ Association prestigious International Optician of the Year award.  

The 2025 finalists are: Kim Jurina, founder of Eye Stylist, Canada; Charlie Saccarelli, CEO of Chadwick Optical, US; Barry Santini, president of Long Island Opticians, US; William Snelgrove, co-founder of Kawartha Vision Care and director at the Ontario Opticians Association, Canada; Frits Van Den Bosch, optical business owner, Belgium; and Blair Wong, chair of the Department of Eye Health Technology at Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology, executive director of the Opticians Association of Massachusetts and chair of the board of directors for GoodVision USA.  

Celebrating the dedication and vision of opticians, Silmo said it is proud to once again showcase the excellence of the sector and host the IOA Award Ceremony, scheduled for Saturday 27 September.  

The international optical trade show will take place 26–29 September at the Paris Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre, gathering eyewear professionals from around the world to showcase innovation, product design and expertise.