European Academy of Optometry and Optics

The EAOO Conference in Ljubljana celebrated outstanding contributions and talents across various categories with a series of prestigious awards recognizing excellence in research, photography, and engagement.

Karen Sparrow Best Poster Award
This year’s Best Poster Award was presented to Lerato Khensani Landela, accompanied by a prize of €250. Lerato’s poster stood out for its clarity, innovation, and scientific rigor.

Lerato shared her excitement and gratitude:

“I’m incredibly grateful to have received the Karen Sparrow Best Poster Award at the EAOO 2025 Conference in Ljubljana! Attending this conference for the first time as a PhD student was an unforgettable experience. It was both exciting and inspiring to engage with so many brilliant minds, receive valuable feedback on my work, and learn about cutting-edge research in my field. I’d like to sincerely thank my supervisors for their continuous guidance and support. This recognition truly motivates me to keep pushing forward in my research journey. A big thank you to the organizers, judges, and everyone who stopped by my poster – your support means so much!”

EAOO Student Researcher and Early Career Researcher Grant
Jannet Phillip was honored with the Student Researcher and Early Career Researcher Grant, receiving €1,000 to support her ongoing research and professional development within the field of ocular optics.

Jannet Phillip, recipient of the EAOO Student Researcher and Early Career Researcher Grant, said:
“I am truly honored to receive this award. It motivates me to continue my research and contribute to advancements in ocular health. Thank you to EAOO for supporting early career researchers like me.”

Ocular Photography Contest — Posterior Segment
Amadej Brezinščak won the Posterior Segment category of the Ocular Photography Contest. As part of the prize, Amadej has been awarded free registration for the next EAOO Conference in Riga 2026.

Ocular Photography Contest — Anterior Segment
The Anterior Segment category was won by Mirza Karamovic, who also received free registration for the upcoming Riga 2026 conference as his award.

Mirza shared his thoughts on receiving the award:

“Participating in the EAOO conference was an inspiring experience that offered valuable insights into the latest research and opportunities to connect with experts in the field. Receiving the award in the eye care section of the ocular photography contest was truly an honour — it reinforces my passion for advancing eye health through clinical research and detailed ocular imaging.”

Sponsors Engagement Awards
Two awards recognizing exceptional engagement with EAOO sponsors were given to Zamadonda Xulu-Kasaba and Charlotte Bell. Both recipients have been granted complimentary conference fees for the EAOO 2026 meeting in Riga.

The awards highlight the commitment of the EAOO community to fostering research excellence, creative talent, and active involvement, ensuring the continued success and growth of the organization.

Congratulations to all the winners!