A career with purpose, in practice and beyond

“She told us she had struggled to learn at school because she couldn’t see,” says Dr Kim. “We were able to give her a pair of glasses that met her needs, and she came back later that day just to thank me. That moment stayed with me.”

Bringing purpose into everyday practice

The experience only reinforced what Dr Kim values about working at Specsavers.

“One of the things I love about Specsavers is our purpose of changing lives through better sight,” he says. “We do that every day here. The environment may be different, but the purpose is the same.”

That impact can take many forms, from helping someone with a high prescription try contact lenses for the first time to giving a child their first pair of glasses.

“When children come in for their first eye exam, they may not know they aren’t seeing clearly,” says Dr Kim. “Helping them see better can improve their ability to learn, socialize and take part in everyday activities.”

Specsavers’ focus on preventative care and evolving areas such as myopia management also helps optometrists respond to changing patient needs.

“The world is changing, clinical research is evolving and our environments are changing,” he says. “Myopia management wasn’t as prominent 10 or 20 years ago as it is now. I think the next decade or two will bring another major shift.”

Making an impact in the community

Dr Kim’s commitment to accessible eyecare extends into his local community. Alongside other volunteers, he has provided eye exams to immigrants and refugees, working with Specsavers and initiatives like The Eyeglasses Project to cover glasses for those who need them. He also works with schools, neighbourhood houses and community events. “When you’re involved, people get to know who you are and what you stand for,” he says.

For optometrists, partnership can create opportunities to combine clinical care with leadership and meaningful community involvement. In Dr Kim’s case, that includes working across two Specsavers locations, Hastings and Grandview Highway, and bringing their teams together to collaborate and support patients across both communities.

At Specsavers, partnership gives optometrists the opportunity to lead their own business while staying focused on the patients and communities they serve. Partners receive ongoing guidance and support, with access to a wider network of colleagues who share knowledge, collaborate and help one another navigate challenges. It’s a model designed to offer the independence of ownership without having to build a business alone.

Growing through connection

Dr Kim encourages optometrists, especially those beginning their careers, to build relationships and learn from others in the profession.

“Get involved, build your network, meet other doctors and learn from colleagues and mentors,” he says. “Once you’re settled, look for ways to make a broader impact.”

Whether abroad or closer to home, his experience is a reminder that a rewarding career in optometry can extend far beyond the exam room.

“For us, this is work we do every day, so it can become routine,” Dr Kim says. “But for a patient, that appointment may have a major impact. Make every interaction count.”

Ready to start making a difference? Learn more about partnership at Specsavers and reach out today.