The Finnish eye care sector awarded the most deserving professionals of the year at the NÄE2025 Optometry Days in Helsinki on 14-15 March 2025. The Optometrist of the Year 2024 is a long-time optometrist and entrepreneur Pasi Hiukka. In addition, the Finnish Association of Vision and Eyecare Näe ry awarded merit badges to industry influencers in recognition of their contribution to the development of the eye care sector.
The most anticipated optical and ophthalmic event of the year, NÄE2025 Optometry Days 14-15 March 2025, brought together professionals in the field in Helsinki. The theme of the event was the clinical guidelines published by the Ethical Council of Optometry (OEN) to support optometrists’ work with the ageing population as the Article 16 of the Decree of Health Care Professionals and its restrictions on the practice of optometry are about to be lifted.
The Optometry Days culminated in an evening gala, during which the Finnish optical profession awarded its talents. The evening was hosted by eyewear icon Sami Sykkö.
Optometrist of the Year 2024 – an experienced optometrist and innovator in the field
Optometrist of the Year 2024 is Pasi Hiukka, an experienced optometrist and entrepreneur known for his work in promoting vision and eye health. He holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Optometry and has been active in the development of the field, as an educator and in several positions of trust.
“It felt really good to hear about the win. This recognition shows that I have done the right things over the years. I am still passionate about my work, and I want to share my knowledge with others. But as Jutila once said – thanks go to the whole team, because these jobs are not done alone. To optometrists, I say: believe in yourself. We have a high level of training and state-of-the-art examination equipment in optics stores,” says Mr Hiukka.
According to Mr Hiukka, the role of optometrists in eye care is growing as the population ages.
“The future of the field looks bright. With the abolition of the Article 16 of the Decree of Health Care Professionals, we will finally be able to make full use of the skills to which our training already entitles us – but we will also have responsibilities, and we must take those responsibilities. It’s important to be involved in development, in influencing and, above all, in working with clients – solving the challenges of vision and eye health.”
Selection process for the Optometrist of the Year award has been reformed
The prestigious Optometrist of the Year award is presented annually to a distinguished optometrist licensed in Finland. The selection process for 2024 was revised to a three-stage process and for the first time the final selection was made by public vote.
In the first phase, everyone in eye care industry were invited to nominate an optometrist of the year. A jury consisting of members of the boards of the Finnish Association of Vision and Eyecare and the The Finnish Professionals of Optometry (Soa) selected five candidates from the nominations, from which the public voted for the winner.
“There were many nominations and from them five outstanding optometrists were chosen. The shortlist was based on the following qualities: positive visibility in the industry, exceptional customer service, sharing knowledge with colleagues, influence and development, and passion and dedication to the industry. The Optometrist of the Year, as voted by the public, more than meets these criteria,” said Panu Tast, CEO of the Finnish Association of Vision and Eyecare Näe ry.
Distinctions for the best in optometry
On the occasion of the NÄE2025 Optometry Days, the Finnish Association of Vision and Eyecare also awarded five badges of merit to distinguished professionals in the field in recognition of their long-term work in the eye care sector.
Gold Badge of Merit:
- Riikka Järvinen, Managing Director of Piiloset Oy Finnsusp Ab: Long-term contribution to the industry as Vice President of the Finnish Association of Vision and Eyecare Näe ry
- Pia Mäkelä, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD, Aston University), Lecturer in Optometry at Metropolia University of Applied Sciences: Key player in the international ECOO accreditation of the degree programme.
- Saija Flinkkilä, Diploma Supervisor in Optometry, Metropolia UAS: Enabler of the international ECOO accreditation.
Silver Badge of Merit:
- Matti Haarala, entrepreneur and founder of Akop Oy: Decades of long-term, trust-building work for optics stores in the optical import and wholesale business.
- Timo Andersson, entrepreneur and founder of Timo Andersson Oy: Decades of long-term, trust-building work for optics stores in the import and wholesale of optics.
For more information, please contact:
Mr Panu Tast
Panu Tast, CEO, The Finnish Association of Vision and Eyecare Näe ry
+358 40 542 2227, panu.tast@naery.fi
Mr Pasi Hiukka
Optometrist MOptom, entrepreneur, Brillet
+358 40 717 1988, pasi.hiukka@brillet.fi
