There’s something powerful that happens when purpose aligns with partnership. I recently experienced it firsthand at a special event hosted at the RBC offices in downtown
Toronto, an evening that brought together RBC and the Academy of Ophthalmic Education (AOE) to spotlight their growing collaboration.

I’ve attended my fair share of events. But this one felt different. The energy in the room — nearly 100 people strong, including elected officials, healthcare professionals, educators, and financial leaders — was one of optimism, clarity, and shared commitment. A Partnership with Intention The RBC–AOE partnership quietly began in late 2023, driven by a shared belief: Canada’s vision care sector is evolving rapidly and deserves dedicated support. What followed was genuine alignment, not just in goals, but in values and approach.

Under the leadership of AOE CEO Ali Khan, who has spent over 50 years championing continuing education for eyecare professionals, AOE has become one of the most trusted voice in the field. RBC came to this partnership not just with financial solutions, but with a clear commitment to education, innovation, and long-term industry growth.

A Night That Mattered
The evening kicked off with opening remarks from RBC’s Eric Turner, Regional Vice President, Commercial Financial Services, who set the tone beautifully,
emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and industry growth. What stood out to me most, however, were the voices that followed.

MPP Dawn Gallagher Murphy, speaking on behalf of Premier Doug Ford, presented a commemorative plaque to AOE and RBC recognizing the initiative’s importance to Ontario’s healthcare system.

A standout moment came when Jean-François Prince, Senior Vice President, Regional Banking at RBC, shared a deeply personal story about the life-changing impact of accessible eye care.
It reminded us all why this work matters.

Insight from the Front Lines
Moderated by Urooj Faisal, Vice President of Healthcare for RBC’s Greater Toronto Region, the panel brought together five respected leaders in Canadian vision care. Dr. Allan Ulsifer of FYihealth group, Dr. Baseer Khan of Clarity Eye Institute, Dr. Kerry Salsberg of Eyes on Sheppard, Dr. Stan Woo of the University of Waterloo, and Dr. Wes McCann of Doctors Vision Group shared forward-looking insights on the future of the profession.

Their discussion centred on three key themes: the emergence of entrepreneurial leadership in clinical settings, the transformative role of AI and new technologies, and the urgent need for stronger financial literacy across the sector.

More Than Banking
RBC’s contributions extended beyond finance. Chris Baur and Richard Papadina of RBC Wealth Management, Ian Bennett from Group Banking, and Jaz Virk, Senior Relationship Manager, discussed integrated support strategies—from wealth planning and practice management to staff wellness and billing technology.

Looking Ahead
This initiative isn’t about a single event—it’s a long-term national vision. Backed by RBC’s local and national leadership, this partnership is already helping to shape the future of eyecare in Canada.

The takeaway is clear: the future of vision care will be shaped by those willing to think beyond the exam lane, and lean into collaboration, innovation, and shared leadership. OP



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