The Specsavers team at the Romford store is celebrating after making the shortlist for a top industry award.
Gajan Singh Seehra, the store’s senior optometrist, has been named as a finalist in the 2025 Optician Awards category of Optometrist of the Year, in recognition of his contributions to the eye care industry over the past 25 years.
Holding two degrees – one in Optical Management and another in Optometry – alongside a Diploma in Therapeutic Prescribing and specialist certification in Contact Lenses, Gajan has built a reputation of leadership in his field.
In his current role at Specsavers Romford, Gajan leads the professional development of trainee clinicians, helping to nurture the next generation of optical professionals.
Beyond his work in-store, Gajan dedicates his time each month to volunteering at eye care clinics supporting people affected by homelessness in Romford and Ilford. He is also a regular speaker at UK universities and local schools, where he shares insights on career development and volunteering opportunities.
In addition, Gajan organises the annual Out of the Box Optoversity Challenge – an inter-university competition which tests students on aspects of optometry and challenges them to raise funds for Vision Care.
Gajan says: ‘I am deeply honoured by this nomination. It truly reflects the hard work, dedication, and collaborative spirit of the entire team at Specsavers. This achievement belongs to all of us. To me, service to others is a form of spiritual practice.’
The annual Optician Awards are open to all practices across the UK and Ireland and recognise excellence, innovation and impact within the profession.
Ahthesamul Chowdhury, Practice Director at Specsavers Romford, says: ‘We are incredibly proud to see Gajan recognised at a national level. For the past 10 years, he has been an invaluable asset to our practice and the wider community.
‘His commitment to clinical excellence and patient care is truly outstanding, and this nomination is richly deserved. Many trainees have benefitted from his tutelage, and he is a fantastic ambassador for the profession.’
The Optician Awards are a platform to celebrate the achievements and aim to foster a sense of community and recognition among optics and audiology practitioners. Winners will be announced at the 2025 Optician Awards ceremony on Saturday 13 December at the Royal Lancaster in London.
