Dr. Ameer Abou Adela, a young optometrist from Lebanon, has received the Young Leader Award in Memory of Dr. Paul Berman, a prestigious award presented by the World Council of Optometry (WCO) in Melbourne, Australia on 8 September 2023. The award is given to a young optometrist who has made an outstanding contribution to the achievement of the WCO’s vision and mission and shows promising future leadership in world optometry.

Dr. Adela is the second recipient of this award, which was first presented in 2017 to Dr. Priya Morjaria from the UK. In his acceptance speech, he thanked the WCO for the recognition and expressed his gratitude to his mentors, colleagues, and supporters, and also dedicated the award to the Vision Care Association in Lebanon, as well as to his second home, the United Arab Emirates.

He has made significant contributions to the field of optometry in Lebanon and beyond. After completing his PhD studies in optometry at KwaZulu Natal University, Dr. Adela founded the Vision Care Association (VCA) in Lebanon in 2017. The VCA, a non-profit non-governmental organization (NGO), is working on making eye care services accessible and equitable for all. The VCA has become a WCO Country Member organization under Dr. Adela’s leadership, in addition to becoming a member of the Eastern Mediterranean Council of Optometry (EMCO). He is also a strong advocate for education and research in optometry, being a key figure in the launching of five VCA advocacy programs: eyecare, education, legislation, environment, and research.

Dr. Adela’s dedication and contributions to the profession is evident in his work and his passion for helping others. He is a role model for young optometrists around the world, and his receipt of the prestigious award is a testament to his accomplishments and potential to make a positive impact on the future of optometry. His work is making a real difference in the lives of people around the world, and he will continue to be a leader in the profession for many years to come.