Cindy Spiel Williams is a dedicated myopia management specialist at CooperVision, based in Finland, with extensive experience in slowing the progression of myopia in children and young adults. As an optometrist with an MBA and a strong interest in emotional intelligence, Cindy brings a unique, people-centred approach to clinical care and professional education.

Her work focuses on building trusting, collaborative relationships with both children and their parents – recognising that managing myopia is not just a clinical task, but a shared journey. Cindy is passionate about bringing cutting-edge information on myopia and contact lens solutions accessible to eye care professionals, empowering them to offer personalised, evidence-based recommendations that truly meet each child’s needs.

Jussi-Pekka Rantanen is a Senior News Presenter and Producer at the Finnish Broadcasting Company Yle. On top of anchoring flagship news bulletins, he has worked on several other programmes like concerts, opera productions, current affairs programmes and TV series. Rantanen is also known for his work as a commentator of the Independence Day Reception of the President of Finland – traditionally the most-watched broadcast programme of the year in Finland. In addition to his work at Yle, Jussi-Pekka has regularly hosted and moderated events, seminars, and forums in Finland and abroad (EBU, Unesco, EU, NewsXChange, Council of Europe, NHK, Prix Europa). He has studied journalism and mass communication as a major at the University of Tampere and graduated (MSc) in 2000. He has also studied film and television at the University of Texas in Austin.

Mira Järvinen is a dedicated optometrist and lecturer at Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, passionate about advancing clinical optometry through education, evidence-based practice, and patient-centred care.

Mira’s professional journey began in an optical store, where she developed a strong foundation in optometry and customer care. She later gained valuable experience at the Rehabilitation Clinic for Eye Diseases, University Hospital of Helsinki (HUS), managing patients with ocular diseases and complex visual impairments. Her clinical interests include low vision rehabilitation, retinal diseases, ocular imaging, and optical solutions for patients with eye diseases.

In 2020, she completed her master’s studies in General Optometry at the University of South-Eastern Norway (USN), and a peer-reviewed article on X-linked retinoschisis was published based on her master thesis. After finishing her studies, she joined Metropolia as the Responsible Optometrist for the Myllypuro Campus Optical Store and Optometry Clinic, integrating clinical expertise with academic instruction.

Mohamed Geneid, MD, PhD, is a consultant ophthalmologist with subspecialty expertise in glaucoma and surgical focus on both cataract and glaucoma procedures.

He began his ophthalmology career in 2009 and earned his PhD from Oulu University, Finland. Dr. Geneid currently practices at Päijät-Häme Central Hospital in Lahti, Finland, and in the private sector. He has participated in numerous international conferences as a speaker and presenter and has published peer-reviewed research in glaucoma and retinal imaging. Dr. Geneid is committed to advancing glaucoma care through both clinical practice and research.

Oskari Lehvonen is an experienced optometrist and a passionate advocate for clinical excellence and professional development. He currently serves as Head of Professional Advancement at Specsavers Finland, where he leads initiatives focused on clinical quality, eye health, and strengthening the role of optometrists in delivering person-centred care.

Oskari began his career in an optical store, gaining a strong foundation in customer service and primary eye care. Before joining Specsavers, he worked as a responsible optometrist in a private eye hospital, where he specialised in refractive and cataract surgery, ocular disease management, and dry eye treatment.

He holds a Master of Science in Optometry and Visual Science from the University of South-Eastern Norway (USN) and is deeply committed to advancing evidence-based practices in Finnish optometry. His clinical interests include retinal diseases, ocular imaging, dry eyes, and surgical co-management, always keeping the focus on patient experience and satisfaction.

Panu Tast is a seasoned CEO and lobbyist with extensive experience in the optics industry, healthcare, and payment services. He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business administration with a specialisation in media management and is a licensed optometrist in Finland. For the past fourteen years, he has led the Finnish Association of Vision and Eyecare (NÄE) as CEO, playing a pivotal role in advancing the field. Panu’s expertise and leadership have made a significant impact on the industry, establishing him as a respected authority in vision and eye care.