L to R: Dr Pragnya Jagadish, Prof Erin Shriver, Prof Helen Danesh-Meyer, Drs Annika Quinn, Laura Wolpert, Narme Deva, Jo-Anne Pon, Chantelle Venter and Jane Shi. Credit: Dr Shira Sheen

This year’s Women in Vision Aotearoa three-day conference was nothing short of extraordinary. Set against Queenstown’s breathtaking backdrop, it brought together female ophthalmologists, registrars, optometrists, junior doctors as well as medical and optometry students for an event unlike any other. More than a conference, it was a celebration of connection, empowerment and a shared vision to advance eye health and equity in our community. It was a privilege to co-organise this landmark event alongside Dr Ruhella Hossain, with the vision and leadership of Professor Helen Danesh-Meyer and Drs Liz Insull and Pragnya Jagadish, the inspirational founders of Women in Vision Aotearoa.

Over 100 delegates came together to engage in raw, thought-provoking conversations led by world-class speakers and panellists. Prof Danesh-Meyer, neuro-ophthalmologist and scientific director of Vision Research Foundation, set the tone with a powerful address. She highlighted the evidence behind gender equity and bias within the eyecare workforce, honouring the women who paved the way and reflecting on the progress made. Her words were a grounding yet inspiring call to action to continue breaking barriers.

We were fortunate to host the internationally renowned Professor Erin Shriver, oculofacial and plastics consultant at the University of Iowa and past president of Women in Ophthalmology (WIO). With honesty and conviction, she shared her personal journey of challenging the status quo and overcoming barriers and her experience as a WIO president. Her insights were a reminder of the work still ahead in addressing inequities, and we were emboldened to take up this mission in our local communities.

WIV 2024 organisers Dr Liz Insull, Prof Helen Danesh-Meyer and Drs Joevy Lim, Ruhella Hossain and Pragnya Jagadish with Sharesies co-founder Brooke Roberts (third from left)  

The energy remained electric as optometrist and president of the Cornea & Contact Lens Society New Zealand Adele Jefferies led a compelling session on improving the patient’s journey through eyecare. She explored the challenges and opportunities for collaboration between optometrists and ophthalmologists, offering practical solutions to bridge gaps in care. We also heard forward-thinking perspectives on photobiomodulation, shedding light on innovations shaping the future of holistic patient care.

Rising above and beyond

The scientific programme delivered a rich mix of case-based discussions, clinical pearls and collaborative panels. Experts tackled topics spanning anterior segment, paediatrics, oculoplastics, medical retina, glaucoma, neuro-ophthalmology and, of particular importance, collaborative care strategies. The atmosphere fostered open, cross-disciplinary dialogue — a rare and powerful opportunity to learn and grow together.

We also ventured beyond the boundaries of a traditional eye conference. Brooke Roberts, co-founder and co-CEO of wealth development platform Sharesies, captivated the audience with her entrepreneurial journey and insights into financial wellness. This was a topic equally relevant to both our personal and clinical practice lives and her story was a reminder that empowerment begins with knowledge and self-awareness.

Drs Emma Wehipeihana (front left) and Simone Freundlich (third from left), Prof Helen Danesh-Meyer (seventh from left, front) and Renata Watene (middle, front) with the 12 Vision Research Foundation recipients

Dr Emma Wehipeihana, a general surgical trainee and respected writer and broadcaster, shared her inspiring path as a Māori wāhine rising above gender- and ethnicity-based bias. Her eloquent message of “you cannot be what you cannot see” reinforced the importance of representation and the transformative power of communities like Women in Vision Aotearoa.

Similarly, Renata Watene, optometrist, University of Auckland PhD candidate and professional teaching fellow kaiāwhina, delivered a moving talk on equitable outcomes in Māori health, underscoring the critical role eyecare practitioners play in creating meaningful change. Her powerful statement, “Vision for Māori is broader than the Western sense”, resonated with many in the room, as this worldview is also shared by other cultures, including my own.

Taking a broader step back, Tania Te Whenua, principal of Te Whenua Law & Consulting, took us on a reflective journey through the history of bias in New Zealand’s healthcare system. Her words were both stirring and empowering, urging us to “beat to our own drum” while confronting systemic inequities and inherent racism with courage and resolve.

Delegates listen intently as Sophie Woodburn shares a personal tale during the financial wellness session

The programme offered not only knowledge but tangible tools for personal and professional growth. Sessions on negotiation strategies, led by strategic leader, board director and author Wendy Kerr, provided delegates with invaluable skills applicable in all areas of life. Roleplay scenarios shed light on the power of bystanders in addressing microaggressions, equipping participants with the skills to foster safer, more respectful environments.

A clear highlight was the unforgettable wellness session held on the rooftop of the Heritage Hotel. Against a panoramic view of Queenstown, we were gently reminded by Nera Fernando – wellness coach and founder of OYF Far Infrared Yoga & Fitness Remuera – of the importance of health and self-care as the foundation for success and longevity in our careers.

One cannot forget the conference dinner held at stunning Millbrook Resort. The conversations continued to flow while delegates mingled and enjoyed five-star cuisine. New connections were made and existing relationships strengthened, paving yet another way for future mentors to meet mentees.

Delegates left inspired, recharged and deeply connected. These conversations mark the beginning of a country where we can shape a future that values equity for both patients and practitioners, while fostering a safer, more inclusive workforce. Achieving this vision will require collective effort from allies, advocates and every individual who believes in a fairer, brighter tomorrow.

For me, the experience was humbling and profoundly uplifting. To stand alongside such dedicated, passionate colleagues was a privilege and a powerful reminder of the collective strength we hold.

None of this would have been possible without the support of our generous partners. A heartfelt thank you to Eye Institute, our platinum sponsor and our bronze sponsor, Legacy Group. We are also grateful for the support of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists New Zealand Branch, Medix21 Surgical, Glaukos, Southern Eye Specialists, Glaucoma New Zealand and the Vision Research Foundation, who made it possible for 12 medical/optometry students and junior doctors to attend through full scholarships.

Delegates enjoying their last day at the Women in Vision Aotearoa 2024 conference in Queenstown

I eagerly await the opportunity to gather with this incredible fellowship at the third Women in Vision Aotearoa conference (date to be confirmed). Until then, may we carry forward the spirit of connection, empowerment and relentless progress that defined this unforgettable event.

Dr Joevy Lim is a RANZCO trainee in Auckland and was a recipient of an HRC clinical research training fellowship for her PhD: a contemporary appraisal of ocular melanoma in Aotearoa New Zealand.