Kovin Naidoo recognised for public health impact

Anaheim, U.S., 10 November 2016: Professor Kovin Naidoo, CEO of Brien Holden Vision Institute, has received the Henry B. Peters Memorial Award from the American Academy of Optometry for his exemplary contributions to public health and/or environmental vision over many years, in Anaheim today.

In announcing the award, provided by the American Optometric Foundation, the academy commented: “Dr. Naidoo is an outstanding academic, researcher, educator, and public health innovator who has been revolutionizing access and delivery of eye care in Africa, and for the poor and disadvantaged throughout the world.”

About Professor Kovin Naidoo, OD MPH PhD FAAO

Professor Kovin Naidoo is CEO of Brien Holden Vision Institute. He is an academic, former anti-apartheid activist and political prisoner, optometrist and an internationally celebrated public health leader. His professional life has been dedicated to delivering eye care to people in need through research, public health and entrepreneurship.

He has served as the Head of Optometry at University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), South Africa and as the co-founder and CEO of the African Vision Research Institute. Kovin was a co-founder of Clear Vision Optical franchise and has been on numerous boards throughout his career including most recently the Vision Impact Institute.

He has served in many elected/voluntary positions including Africa Chair of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, trustee of VISION 2020: Right to Sight, a member of the World Council of Optometry Governing Board, and member of the World Health Organization Refractive Error Working Group. He is founder and Chair of African Vision which is establishing cataract surgical services in the public sector. He also chairs the SA Red Cross Air Mercy Services Board of Trustees.

Professor Naidoo is a Fulbright Scholar and was elected an Ashoka Fellow in 2006 for his social entrepreneurial efforts in addressing the needs of those less privileged. He was African Optometrist of the Year in 2002 and named International Optometrist in 2007. He was jointly awarded with Professor Brien Holden the Schwab Social Entrepreneur Award for Africa 2010, at the regional World Economic Forum in Tanzania because of his ability to merge his business acumen with social causes.

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Acknowledgement of Country

Brien Holden Foundation acknowledges the traditional Aboriginal custodians of the many lands that we live and work on, and their continuing connection to Country and culture.

Acknowledgement of Country

Brien Holden Foundation acknowledges the traditional Aboriginal custodians of the many lands that we live and work on, and their continuing connection to Country and culture.

Our site uses cookies. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use. For more details, please check our Privacy Policy.