The Optical Foundation

15/03/2026

From Award Winner to Industry-Ready Leader: Dr. Samson Darrah's Year-Long Mentorship Journey

In October 2024, we celebrated Dr. Samson Darrah as our 2024 Early Career Award recipient. As part of this prestigious award, Samson received a year-long mentorship with industry leader Dr. Erich Bauman.

Having recently completed this transformative experience, we're sharing how it has elevated his already remarkable trajectory.

Samson had already achieved extraordinary impact - founding iCare Network International (serving 2,000+ individuals), conducting groundbreaking research in advanced ophthalmic imaging and retinal disease, and helping students secure fully funded scholarships. Yet he recognized that to maximize his future impact, he needed to understand how innovation moves from research into real-world solutions.

Over twelve months of guidance from Dr. Bauman, Samson gained insights that went far beyond technical knowledge:

* Building relationships matters as much as credentials -- Throughout the year, Samson became more intentional about networking and sharing his work proactively.

* Clinical expertise guides innovation -- Dr. Bauman showed that moving into industry leadership doesn't mean leaving clinical understanding behind.

* Think strategically, not just operationally -- Samson now approaches iCare Network by asking what long-term problems to solve, not just what event to organize next.

* One conversation can open doors -- When Samson expressed curiosity about industry work, Dr. Bauman immediately connected him with professionals to observe firsthand.

"Dr. Bauman helped me understand that growth is not only about what you know, but also about how you position yourself and who you build with over time," Samson reflects.

The impact of this year is already visible - and true to his character, Samson is paying it forward through structured mentorship programs for the next generation.

To aspiring optometrists: Samson's journey shows that even accomplished young leaders can accelerate their impact through the right mentorship. The TOF Early Career Award offers not just recognition, but includes a full year of transformative guidance from an industry leader.

Applications for 2026 will open soon. If you're making outstanding contributions through research, community service, education, or innovation - start preparing your submission today.

08/03/2026

Happy International Women’s Day 2026!
Today we celebrate the incredible women who shape our communities, professions, and future.

On International Women’s Day, The Optical Foundation recognises the strength, leadership, and dedication of women everywhere. From healthcare and education to science, business, and community life, women continue to make a lasting difference.

Today we not only honour the achievements of women everywhere and celebrate the positive change they inspire, we also commit to stand for “Rights, Justice & Action for ALL Women and Girls.” Because when women and girls have equal opportunities to realise their potential, it not only honours their inherent dignity and rights, but strengthens our professions, enriches our communities, and advances a more just and flourishing society for all.

# optometry

17/02/2026

We are deeply honoured to celebrate Dr. Erich Bauman , OD, MBA, MAR, FAAO, whose generous commitment as mentor for our 2024 Early Career Award exemplifies the spirit of excellence and service that defines optometry at its best.

Dr. Bauman brings an extraordinary wealth of experience to this mentorship—over 35 years spanning clinical practice, groundbreaking research and development, and global leadership in the contact lens industry. From leading the development of innovative products like DAILIES TOTAL1® and PRECISION1® to holding pivotal roles across clinical, regulatory, marketing, and commercial domains, his career reflects a rare combination of technical expertise and strategic vision.

For our 2024 award recipient, Dr. Samson Darrah, this mentorship represents an invaluable opportunity. Under Dr. Bauman's guidance, Dr. Darrah gained access to insights that bridge the gap between clinical excellence and industry innovation—learning not just the science of optometry, but the art of leadership, the importance of cross-functional collaboration, and the strategic thinking that drives the profession forward.

Dr. Bauman's commitment to nurturing the next generation ensures that young leaders like Dr. Darrah are equipped to elevate the standards of optometry globally. This mentorship will ripple into the future, strengthening patient care, advancing research, and inspiring others to pursue excellence with both technical skill and genuine care for the communities they serve.

To prospective mentors: Dr. Bauman's example shows us that sharing your experience is one of the most powerful ways to shape the future of our profession. We invite you to consider becoming a mentor for future TOF Early Career Award recipients and help us build a legacy of excellence together.

Caro Kunnen, Samson Darrah, Daudi Mohammed-Ameen, Young Hyun Kim, Nutifafa Anuwa Amarh, Simone J. Stad, Fayiz Mahgoub

01/01/2026

As we welcome 2026, we are grateful for the people, partnerships, and connections that bring The Optical Foundation’s work to life around the world.

Our goal is to make eye care accessible in the developing world through comprehensive eye exams, education, and research, while also creating meaningful opportunities for optometry students to learn, serve, and grow. Together, we are expanding access to care and helping shape the next generation of eye care leaders.

Thank you for being part of this community. Wishing you a Happy New Year and looking forward to continuing this work together in 2026.

02/12/2025

This Giving Tuesday, help us bring vision to life!
Millions of people around the world lack access to basic eye care, leaving children unable to
learn and adults unable to work to their full potential. At The Optical Foundation, we
believe that clear sight changes lives.
Your donation today helps us support sustainable eye-care programs that create lasting
impact.
Donate now and be part of a brighter future: https://www.theopticalfoundation.com/donate

Support our growth Donation Block Set up a payment processor to start receiving donations. $10.00 $20.00 $30.00 $40.00 Custom Amount Please enter an amount $ Donate Donate

24/11/2025

We are thrilled to announce Raphael Baffour Kyei as the winner of the 2025 The Optical Foundation Early Career Award — Raphael is a visionary young leader transforming eye care and preventing avoidable blindness across Ghana and beyond.

Raphael’s journey is rooted in a mission to prevent blindness through education, clinical care, and community outreach. He previously served as a Mandela Washington Fellow at the University of Nevada, Reno, having been selected among the top 1% of Ghanaian applicants for this prestigious U.S. Department of State program recognizing Africa’s most impactful emerging leaders.

His excellence has been recognized at home as well: the Ghana Optometric Association named him the Best Optometrist in the Greater Accra Zone and Best Private Sector Entrepreneur in the Greater Accra Zone, and he ranked second nationally in both categories — achievements that reflect his growing influence in advancing eye health in Africa.

A Leader Building Systems That Last

A dedicated optometrist, entrepreneur, and public health advocate, our awardee has built an extraordinary career centred on expanding access to quality eye care. As the founder and CEO of Lenzvision Opticals & Eye Care, he has grown a once self-funded dream into a thriving organization with two branches, a team of over 10 staff including full-time optometrists. His clinics have managed more than 7,000 eye cases and through community outreach, he has also provided eye care education and services to over 2,000 people in underserved communities.

A Digital Force for Eye Health

His leadership extends to the digital space as well — Lenzvision is now Ghana’s most-followed eye care organization on Instagram, with over 25,000 followers and a reach of more than 100,000 individuals. His commitment to public education has led to multiple appearances on national media as a trusted voice for eye health.

A Track Record of Service & Leadership

His passion for optometry began during university, where he served as P.R.O., Vice President, and Acting President of the Optometry Students Association of Ghana. He led the World Sight Day Committee and volunteered with organizations such as Unite for Sight, Vision Aid Overseas, and Helping Africa Foundation, providing screenings and education in rural areas.
Raphael’s growing influence has earned him recognition from the World Council of Optometry, the UNFPA, and leadership positions within national optometric committees — becoming the youngest optometrist to serve alongside senior professionals. His commitment to mentorship continues to shape the next generation of eye care leaders.

Looking Ahead

Winning The Optical Foundation's Early Career Award for Outstanding Contributions in Optometry, which comes with a one-year mentorship in the eye care industry, marks a strategic step toward scaling his mission.
He aims to strengthen sustainability, expand access to care, and continue driving innovation in line with the Foundation's mission of making eye care accessible across the developing world.

Join us in congratulating the 2025 The Optical Foundation Early Career Award winner Raphael Baffour Kyei!

His journey is just beginning, and the future of eye care in Africa is brighter because of his vision.

19/03/2025

This is a call for nominations for candidates for The Optical Foundation Early Career Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Field of Optometry 2025 Award.
This annual award will be presented to an individual less than 6 years post-graduation who has made a significant contribution to the practice and development of optometry and/or the visual enhancement of the public.
Nominations for candidates need to be submitted to The Optical Foundation Advisory Committee no later than July 1st, 2025 12:00 GMT.

Refer to the website for more information and requirements for nominations. https://www.theopticalfoundation.com/early-career-award

08/03/2025

Celebrating the Power of Vision and Women Leading Change!

This International Women’s Day 2025, The Optical Foundation is proud to honour the incredible women who are reshaping the future of eye care around the globe. Women like Dr. Philipa Asantewaa Larbi, recipient of the 2023 TOF Early Career Award, who are breaking barriers, inspiring generations, and delivering transformative eye health services to communities in need.

Through accelerate action we believe that empowering women is key to creating sustainable change. When women thrive, entire communities benefit—education flourishes, healthcare improves, and vision care reaches those who need it most. From Africa to Asia and beyond, women are leading the charge in eradicating preventable blindness and improving lives through sight.

At TOF, we are committed to fostering a world where more women step into leadership roles, innovate in eye health, and mentor the next generation of change makers. Together, with our remarkable partners, we are lighting the path to a future where every woman has the vision, the power, and the opportunity to succeed.

This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the strength, resilience, and brilliance of women who see beyond limits and work every day to ensure that sight is a right, not a privilege.

28/10/2024

Please join us in congratulating Samson Darrah on winning the 2024 The Optical Foundation Early Career Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Field of Optometry!

Samson distinguished himself through his remarkable achievements and dedication to advancing eye health, research, and mentorship. His work stands as an inspiring testament to impactful community service and academic excellence.

While studying at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Samson’s research on "Conjunctival Flora and Antibiotic Sensitivity Pattern in Diabetic and Non-Diabetic Individuals" became a valuable contribution to understanding eye health among diabetic patients in Ghana and influencing care strategies.

Beyond research, Samson founded iCare Network Ghana, providing free eye care services to underserved communities and directly improving vision health for over 2,000 individuals. His leadership extends to empowering more than 150 volunteers, including optometry students, to serve their communities.

In his role as Vice President for the Student Volunteers for Optometric Service to Humanity at KNUST, and as Social Media Manager for the Ghana Optometric Association, Samson has advocated tirelessly for eye health, utilizing his graphic design and media skills to reach even more individuals.

His mentorship efforts are equally inspiring, supporting peers and students in securing fully funded scholarships and guiding the next generation of optometrists through a platform he developed to connect students with global opportunities. Notably, his guidance has helped secure fully funded PhD and undergraduate scholarships, exemplifying his commitment to fostering future leaders.

Samson’s dedication to advancing optometry led to his involvement in establishing the HM KNUST Low Vision Center, providing training to students, enhancing curriculum content, and supervising research projects. Recognised with awards such as the Outstanding Male Volunteer Award from KNUST and the Sigma Xi Travel Fellowship, Samson’s achievements underscore his enduring impact on the field.

Please join us in celebrating this inspiring young leader who embodies The Optical Foundation’s mission of advancing vision health and optometry education worldwide! 🌍👓

17/10/2024

Exciting News for Optometry Students worldwide!

We’re thrilled to have launched The Optical Foundation Community on Momo Board – a space created just for optometry students and early career optometrists! Whether you're navigating your future options, preparing for exams, looking for someone to collaborate with (regardless of where in the world they are located) looking to connect with future colleagues, this is the perfect place to:

- Exchange knowledge
- Share resources
- Get tips from peers & professionals
- Build lifelong connections

Join us and become part of a growing global network that’s shaping the future of optometry! Let's learn, grow, and succeed together.

Join today and start your journey with The Optical Foundation Community on Momo Board. https://theopticalfoundation.com/community/

11/10/2024

We're proud to showcase our newest initiative: a dynamic hub for optometry and vision science professionals to network, exchange insights, and discover new opportunities. Whether you're looking for Q&A sessions, career advice, or academic resources, this is your go to platform!

In acknowledging all the hard work that has gone into shaping this platform we want to recognise Owoahene (Owi) Owusu Mensah for his contributions to The Optical Foundation Community on Momo Board, Owi, a passionate optometrist who has shown unwavering dedication to enhancing eye care in Ghana even before joining the board in 2023.

In acknowledging all the hard work that has gone into shaping this platform we want to recognise Owoahene (Owi) Owusu Mensah for his contributions to The Optical Foundation Community on Momo Board. Owi is a passionate optometrist who has shown unwavering dedication to enhancing eye care in Ghana even before joining the board in 2023. As a practitioner of optometry in Netherlands, Owi has lots of insights on practicing in the field of optometry in Europe. In addition to practicing optometry he is currently also working as a lecturer at the University of Applied Sciences Utrecht to inspire the new generation of Optometrists!

Join now to be part of this collaborative community initiative https://theopticalfoundation.com/community/ Stay tuned for videos showcasing the multitude of resources this platform offers to share with your industry peers!

10/10/2024

Today, October 10th, we join the global community to highlight the joy of clear vision, especially for
our children. This year’s theme, “Children, Love Your Eyes”, is all about ensuring our little ones see
the world in all its beauty and vibrant colours.

An uncorrected vision impairment can significantly impact a child’s education and having access to
eye exams and spectacles can boost a child’s education and confidence.
At The Optical Foundation, we believe every child deserves the magic of clear sight and a bright future and we don’t want anything to stand in the way of making learning accessible for all!

Join us in making a difference! We invite parents, caregivers, schools and anyone to pledge an eye
test for a young person.

Take the pledge today and together, we can change lives and open up a world of
possibilities for the millions of children globally who need eye care.
In helping create a brighter,
clearer future for these children we are automatically paving the way for future generations.