2023 in Review: Count our Successes’

As we approach the conclusion of 2023, I reflect on the myriad of accomplishments of the past year with a deep sense of pride. 

The 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE event in Singapore was a resounding success. Two days filled with challenging discussions and decisive actions that moved us another step closer towards our shared objectives. The event’s triumph was further underscored by on ongoing effort to provide a platform for those who perhaps haven’t previously had the opportunity. I celebrate that most of our speakers were female and that we welcomed more voices than ever before from outside the eye care sector to share their perspectives. These elements added an enriching dimension to our collective endeavours, and I thank everyone for joining us and being part of the conversation. 

The release of the policy brief ‘Eye Health and the World of Work’, in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), propelled global conversations around the importance of eye health in the workplace. The report underscores the integral role of healthy vision for the safety, wellbeing and productivity of workers everywhere. It represents a pivotal stride in the implementation of the UN Resolution on Vision for Everyone I had the privilege of participating in the panel discussion during the launch of the report, joining key leaders in addressing the critical issue affecting millions of workers globally, often with long-term repercussions.  

Complimenting the critical focus on work, this year’s World Sight Day centred around the theme, “Love Your Eyes at Work”, urging businesses to prioritise employee eye health. I was honoured to attend Horizon’s World Sight Day event on behalf of IAPB, where I met with their global leadership team on the vision for the future. The overwhelming response to our Love Your Eyes pledge challenge, with over 13 million pledges, and the call on our members to host eye care screenings at workplaces worldwide, highlights the global impact of the campaign and the continued enthusiasm for the cause.  

The enduring success of World Sight Day and the unwavering support of IAPB members led to the Love Your Eyes campaign winning the prestigious, Campaign of the Year, by the Association of Association Executives at their annual International & European Association Awards. This accolade is a testament to the dedication of everyone in, and outside, of the sector who actively contributed to this achievement. Congratulations all.  

As we look ahead to 2024, with our eyes firmly set on the goals of the 2030 In Sight Strategy, I eagerly anticipate continued collaboration and shared success. I am excited about the many plans in store and am confident that, together, we will achieve new heights in advancing our mission. We look forward to working together collectively to achieve the ambition next year with real excitement and pragmatic possibility.