Nyah Miranda (OD Candidate 2026 – New England College of Optometry)
NextGenOD Digital Communications Associate
CAOS Co-president @ NECO
AOSA Trustee
As a second-year optometry student at the New England College of Optometry, I am passionate about connecting with the optometric community through social media.
NextGenOD has helped to make me aware of the numerous job opportunities when I return home to Canada. Moreover, I have been blessed with an incredible network of students and doctors and a chance to embrace my creativity in the digital space.
My hope is to work in private practice in Canada after graduation. When I’m not studying, I enjoy being outdoors, hiking, and trying new restaurants in Boston.
Before starting optometry school, I completed my undergraduate studies at Queen’s University, majoring in Life Sciences with a specialization in drug development. During this time, I discovered my passion for the intersection of healthcare and innovation, which led me to optometry. I became fascinated by how science and business can come together to improve patient care and vision health through clinical practice and innovative solutions.
As a second-year optometry student at the New England College of Optometry, I’m excited to further explore this passion. Through NextGenOD, I’m able to combine my interests in healthcare and business while connecting with like-minded individuals. I look forward to building relationships with Canadian students and doctors, while gaining a deeper understanding of the resources available to support our growth as future eye care professionals.
Jenny Lee (OD UW 2023)
Clinical & Refractive Optometry (CRO) Liaison to NextGEN OD
As a recent graduate and onboarding Pediatrics and Vision Therapy resident at the University of Waterloo, I’m thrilled to be a part of the optometric community, not only as a clinician but also as a learner, educator, and mentor! I believe that now, more than ever, there are so many opportunities for optometry students to become involved and expand their potential, especially in Canada.
Through my role as CRO Assistant Editor and Liaison, I am excited to connect with students and doctors alike and stay up-to-date with ongoing advancements in our field. I look forward to contributing to more clinical research to support vision therapy and vision rehabilitation, which is rapidly growing and becoming more accessible.
I was born and raised in Vancouver, BC and completed my undergraduate degree at UBC (Physiology). I completed clinical externships at Eye Associates of Pinellas in Pinellas Park, FL and Bolton Optometry Clinic in Bolton, ON.
Outside of optometry, I am passionate about hiking, paddle-boarding, watercolour and digital art!
Natasha Reyes (OD Candidate 2026 – University of Waterloo)
AOSA Trustee Elect
Transitions Student Ambassador
Before starting my career in optometry I attended an arts school in Toronto, followed by McMaster University where I completed a double major in Biology & Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour. During this degree I found my passion for optometry and vision science while working as an optometric technician and research assistant.
I am an executive member of the University of Waterloo’s Advancement of Independent Optometry Club, as well as the president of our chapter of the American Optometric Student Association. The first year of my optometry degree was made rewarding through the breadth of knowledge and networking opportunities I experienced. As a NextGenOD ambassador I hope to provide Canadian students with resources and opportunities to ensure they are prepared to transition into practice after fourth year.
Michelle Paul (OD Candidate 2025 – Pacific University College of Optometry)
AOSA Trustee
My optometry journey has been so rewarding at Pacific University. I have been grateful to have met many inspiring students, doctors, and industry representatives through online networking throughout the US and Canada.
The wealth of knowledge and resources that NextGenOD provides is presented in a concise and creative format. I really appreciate that NextGenOD wants to help optometry students, new graduates, and optometrists across Canada succeed.
I am an active member in many clubs such as our Student VOSH chapter, Practice Management club, CL and Scleral Club, Ocular Disease club, and am a student Ambassador at Pacific University.
I grew up in Saskatchewan (Prince Albert) but did my undergrad and spent most of my adult life in Victoria, BC at the University of Victoria. I also hope to practice in British Columbia after I graduate.
Stephanie Mathews (OD Candidate 2026 – Michigan College of Optometry)
Vice President, Canadian Professional Students Association
I grew up in Cambridge, Ontario and attended McMaster University in Hamilton ( Honours Bachelor of Science, biology).
In addition to servicing as the Vice President of our Canadian Professional Students Association, I am an active member of SVOSH, NOSA, and the AOSA.
I value the widespread reach social media gives us to connect with each other as eye care professionals. I am excited to join NextGenOD to create a network with peers in the eye care industry and to share what I learn with students across the US and Canada.
Shreya Jain (OD Candidate 2027, University of Waterloo)
Volunteer Roles:
Student Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (SVOSH)
Canadian Association of Optometry Students (CAOS)
Canadian Council of the Blind (CCB)
I have been actively involved in supporting my peers and advancing eye care through volunteer roles in several organizations. These leadership roles have reinforced my commitment to promoting equitable access to vision care while supporting fellow students and future colleagues.
NextGEN OD provides students with invaluable clinical and business guidance, preparing them for practice and ultimately improving vision care outcomes. I am thrilled to use this platform to share professional development opportunities and shape the next generation of optometrists.
I completed an undergraduate program in Biochemistry and Biomedical Research Specialization from McMaster University. After graduating, I spent three years supporting clinical trials for cancer research which strengthened my passion for advancing healthcare. I enjoy reading, writing, painting, and camping!
Sara Baig (OD Candidate 2026, University of Waterloo)
NextGEN OD Canada, Student Ambassador
As a graduate from the University of Toronto with a specialist in Cell and Molecular Biology, I have always been deeply fascinated by the intricate workings of the human body. My journey into the world of eye care began while working as an optometric technician in optometry and ophthalmology-based practices in downtown Toronto.
It was here that I discovered my passion for primary eye care through phenomenal mentors, who demonstrated making a direct and meaningful impact on patients’ lives every day. My experience has equipped me with a solid foundation in the field, and I am committed to continuing my education and professional development to better serve my community.
As a NextGenOD ambassador, I hope to use this platform to share knowledge and resources in a concise, creative way, in order to help optometry students, new graduates, and optometrists across Canada succeed in this multifaceted field!
Nazin Ghaffarizadeh (OD Candidate 2028 – School of Optometry – MCPHS)
NextGEN OD Canada, Student Ambassador
I’m a first-year optometry student at MCPHS with three years of experience working as an optometric technician, optician, and reception coordinator. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to work in various optometric settings, including private practices and partnerships with LensCrafters and Pearle Vision. These diverse experiences have given me valuable insights into the business side of optometry, allowing me to identify areas for improvement and implement effective solutions.
Outside of my studies and work, I enjoy staying active through hiking, exploring waterfalls, kickboxing, and spending quality time with friends and family.”
Thank you to our NextGen OD Sponsors
