WRITER Halin Nam

Observing the ripple effect of the ocular care she provided to a paediatric patient inspired Specsavers Newcastle optometrist Halin Nam’s deep interest in myopia management.

My interest in optometry was born from my father’s experience with high myopia. Growing up, I witnessed the challenges he faced with his vision and how it affected his quality of life. This sparked an interest in vision care and a desire to help others maintain optimal eye health. This personal connection laid the foundation for my pursuits of a career in optometry.

I pursued a Bachelor of Vision Science/Master of Clinical Optometry at the University of New South Wales, graduating in 2021. Throughout my studies, I was particularly drawn to understanding the science of myopia and its long-term implications. In my final year, I completed a research project on the efficacy of toric orthokeratology lenses in myopia control. It made me realise how much potential we have, as optometrists, to change the trajectory of a child’s visual development through evidence-based interventions.

After graduating, I began my career working in metro Sydney. The area was home to many young families, and I was fortunate to work alongside colleagues who were passionate about myopia management. Their enthusiasm, and the opportunity to collaborate in managing progressive myopia cases in my practice, allowed me to continue growing in this area of interest. As part of the Specsavers Second Year Graduate Program, I chose to focus my project on myopia control glasses. It was another step forward in solidifying my clinical interest and commitment to advocating for early intervention.

Now working in the Newcastle region of New South Wales, I continue to build on that foundation. One particular case that stands out is a young patient I’ve been monitoring closely for myopia progression. After seeing positive results, the family shared their experience with friends, and this led to several other children accessing myopia management who otherwise might not have received care. That ripple effect is something I find incredibly rewarding. It reminds me that the work we do doesn’t just affect one patient – it can impact entire families and communities.

Beyond the consulting room, I’ve taken on mentoring roles, including being a primary graduate mentor to my sister, who is currently studying, and building her experience in optometry. I was also selected to be part of the current Specsavers Senior Optometrist Role pilot, a project that aims to build the leadership skills and capabilities of optometrists.

Being involved in this has given me the chance to grow strong working relationships with people in my industry and the wider Specsavers organisation, as well as actively contribute to the growth of our clinic team. I am passionate about using my knowledge and experience to encourage the people around me, and am grateful to be working for a company that provides me with the skills to advance as an optometrist.

I have found that the experiences of the Specsavers Senior Optometrist Role programme have helped me reflect on how far our profession has come, and the potential opportunities for the future. I’m inspired to continue exploring new avenues within optometry. I feel like the future is so bright in our industry and I’m grateful to be a part of it.

What I enjoy most about being an optometrist is the unique blend of science, clinical care, and human connection. Every patient brings a new story, and every consultation is an opportunity to educate, empower, and make a meaningful difference. Myopia control, in particular, is an area where we have the ability to shape a child’s visual future – not just by managing their prescription, but by reducing their long-term risk of sight-threatening conditions.

Beyond the clinical impact, we’re also in a position to educate patients and their families, creating broader awareness within the community and helping others access the care they might not have known was available.

I’m proud to be part of a profession that continues to evolve and rise to new challenges. Whether it’s the latest in lens technology or advances in treatment methods, there’s always more to learn, more to share, and more we can do to support our patients’ long-term eye health.

Halin Nam graduated with a Bachelor of Vision Science/Master of Clinical Optometry from the University of New South Wales in 2021. She practises at Specsavers in Newcastle, New South Wales.