Dr Ciku Mathenge: A leader in eye health in Africa
Dr Ciku Mathenge is shaping the future of eye care in Africa. As the first female ophthalmologist trained by The Fred Hollows Foundation in the region, she has restored sight to thousands and is helping to build a stronger, more sustainable eye health system.
Guided by The Foundation’s medical experts, Dr Ciku mastered a groundbreaking cataract surgery technique that makes sight-saving treatment more accessible. Her work is not only giving people back their vision—it’s ensuring that eye care in Africa continues to grow and reach more people in need.
Eric could have been blind forever, until Dr Ciku stepped in
Associate Professor Dr Kris Rallah-Baker: Australia's first Aboriginal ophthalmologist
Australia's first Aboriginal ophthalmologist, Dr Kris Rallah-Baker is dedicated to improving eye health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. A proud Yuggera and Biri-Gubba man, he combines medical expertise with cultural understanding to address systemic barriers in healthcare. Through his leadership and advocacy, he is working to close the gap in eye care access and ensure Indigenous Australians receive quality treatment.
Dr Ouk Soleaphy and Dr Sok Kheng: Cambodia’s first two female ophthalmologists
Cambodia’s first two female ophthalmologists, Dr Ouk Soleaphy and Dr Sok Kheng, are leading the charge in rebuilding their country’s eye health system. Working out of Khmer-Soviet Friendship Hospital, they provide critical eye care services to communities affected by decades of conflict and poverty. With only a small number of ophthalmologists serving the entire country, their expertise and dedication are crucial in addressing Cambodia’s high rates of avoidable blindness.
Dr Phetsamone Indara: Changing eye care in Laos
Growing up in rural Laos, Dr Phetsamone saw firsthand the struggles of living with blindness when he cared for his visually impaired great-grandmother. Determined to make a difference, he became the first permanent ophthalmologist in northern Laos. Thanks to his leadership, mobile eye camps now reach remote communities, restoring sight to thousands who would otherwise go untreated. His commitment to training new eye doctors ensures a sustainable future for eye care in Laos.
Bringing sight to remote communities
Patricia Mumbi Kania: Transforming lives across Kenya
A dedicated ophthalmic nurse in Kenya, Patricia found her calling in eye care after witnessing her father’s life-changing cataract surgery. She has since devoted her career to restoring sight and providing compassionate care to her patients. Patricia’s work at Kikuyu Eye Hospital is a testament to the power of skilled nursing in delivering quality eye care and transforming lives across Kenya.
Dr Senglar Laosern: Breaking barriers and changing lives
Dr Senglar Laosern travels hours across rugged terrain to bring eye care to remote communities in Oudomxay Province, Laos. As the second female ophthalmologist in the region, she understands the unique challenges women face in seeking treatment. She builds trust with her patients, ensuring they feel confident to undergo surgery that can restore their sight. Trained by The Fred Hollows Foundation, Dr Senglar is breaking barriers and changing lives.
Caren Chepengat: A vision for change
After witnessing her mother lose sight due to a lack of accessible care, Caren Chepengat was determined to become an ophthalmic clinical officer. Supported by The Fred Hollows Foundation, she trained at the Kenya Medical Training College and now leads eye care at Kapenguria Referral Hospital. As one of the few female eye surgeons in the region, Caren has inspired more women to join the field and ensured thousands receive treatment.
