A full-house at ODMA25’s Women in Optics breakfast

Building on the success of Australia’s Optical Distributors and Manufacturers Association’s (ODMA’s) inaugural Women in Optics event in June 2025, a Facebook group has been launched to keep momentum going and help members stay connected.

ODMA is committed to building a strong, supportive Women in Optics community, a space where women can connect, collaborate and thrive, said ODMA CEO Amanda Trotman. “The energy, conversation and collaboration in the room at the breakfast was inspiring – and it’s clear we’ve started something special. Our goal is to stay connected, continue sharing insights and create more opportunities for networking, learning and supporting one another – both in person and online.”

Having recently connected with Women in Vision Aotearoa’s Professor Helen Danesh-Meyer and Dr Liz Insull, Trotman said she hopes to benefit from their wisdom as ODMA embarks on building something similar in Australia. “I’m big on collaboration and who knows where this could go as far as sharing ideas and content. I’m sure some here in Australia would love to join an event over in NZ some time! The goal is connecting people who can learn and benefit from knowing each other. I believe women should be a part of Women in Vision NZ and Women in Optics Australia because you never know who you will meet and how that will benefit you.”

ODMA is already planning another national event, likely in conjunction with the O-Show 26 in Melbourne 16–17 August 2026.