NZOSS 2024 vice president Luke Wang, president Hector Leong (centre) and sports rep Jabez Zeleke

As we close 2024, the New Zealand Optometry Student Society (NZOSS) reflects on a remarkable year, packed with growth, exciting collaborations and memorable events. Of the 16 events we hosted this year, one of the standouts was the annual optometry Eye Ball, hosted for the first time by NZOSS.

Our year began with the much-anticipated annual camp at Lonsdale Park. Over 90 students gathered for a weekend of activities, where the bonfire brought all year levels together for an unforgettable night of bonding. This event set the tone for the rest of 2024, filled with energy and plenty of student involvement.

The Welcome BBQ once again introduced new part II students to more senior students, each of whom left the event with goodie bags sponsored by our generous partners. That same weekend, we had a strong showing for the Round the Bays run, with over 20 runners and walkers participating, despite the rain. Our OPSM sports day was another huge success, with intense but friendly competition across several sports, culminating in a well-earned victory of $400 of Westfield vouchers for our part IV team.

In terms of academic development, we were fortunate to host several educational seminars throughout the year. These featured guest speakers from the New Zealand Association of Optometrists, as well as industry professionals sharing their insights on the latest stories and developments in optometry. A special highlight was the talk by Bausch + Lomb key account manager Yvette Beattie, who discussed the evolving landscape of contact lenses and provided plenty of cosmetic goods for the attendees. On the international front, we participated in the second Optometry Student Society Australia and New Zealand conference online. Students from both sides of the Tasman gathered to hear from industry leaders, including senior teaching fellow Robert Ng from the University of Auckland.

The year’s social calendar reached its peak with our NZOSS Eye Ball, where students embraced the ‘Starry Night’ theme with their dazzling outfits. Over 15 prizes from our generous sponsors were up for grabs, including a hamper of treats and optometry equipment from Ophthalmic Instrument Company and sunglasses from OPSM. Our diamond sponsor this year was Specsavers, which selected the winners of the best-dressed competition.

As we approach the end of the year, we’re busy preparing for the part V graduation dinner, which will be held at the luxurious Rydges Hotel in Auckland, thanks to the sponsorship of OPSM and Specsavers. This event will be a perfect close to an exciting year, as we celebrate the achievements of our newly minted optometrist colleagues.

Looking ahead, I am excited to hand over the reins to our new president, Joanna Cao, and her dedicated team. I have no doubt that 2025 will bring even more success and memorable moments for NZOSS!

Hector Leong is the outgoing New Zealand Optometry Student Society president