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21/03/2025
In honour of the recent International Women’s Day, we celebrate a cross-section of the ‘Women of Vision Eye Institute’ – from our clinics and day hospitals to executive team (and everything in between).
Here are some of their stories of career progression, work-life balance, education, mentorship and breaking down barriers.
Natalie Fleming
Clinical Nurse, Windsor Gardens Day Surgery
‘As a clinical nurse, I have been fortunate to further develop my skills and career with the support of VEI. I was given the opportunity to complete postgraduate studies in perioperative nursing, which has been instrumental in my professional growth.
‘This education has not only enhanced my clinical expertise but also given me the confidence to step into a leadership role, running the Ophthalmic Clinic at Windsor Gardens Day Surgery in South Australia. Having the ability to upskill while continuing to work has been invaluable, allowing me to bridge the gap between clinical practice and leadership. In my role, I am now responsible for ensuring the highest standard of patient care, streamlining clinic operations, and mentoring other nurses who are looking to advance their own careers.
‘Supporting women in healthcare, particularly in leadership and specialised roles, is essential for fostering a diverse and skilled workforce. It’s inspiring to work in an environment where women are openly encouraged to step into decision-making roles and influence the future of patient care.
‘I hope to continue growing in this field and, in turn, support other women in pursuing their own professional development within healthcare.’
‘It’s inspiring to work in an environment where women are openly encouraged to step into decision-making roles and influence the future of patient care.’
Kristina Iacovangelo
Clinical Relationships Manager (VIC), Vision Eye Institute
‘I have been incredibly lucky to find such a unique role within VEI, where I am able to explore new ideas and develop new skills to improve referrer and patient experiences. Even better is having the support of my colleagues and upper management to grab these new skills by the wings and fly! It’s truly rewarding. These opportunities weren’t available when I was practising full-time as an optometrist.
‘My role at VEI has allowed me to shine in ways I never thought possible. I come home each day with a smile, a sense of accomplishment, and the knowledge that I am seen and appreciated. And because I still locum as an optometrist, I get the best of both worlds!’
‘I come home each day with a smile, a sense of accomplishment, and the knowledge that I am seen and appreciated.’
Allison Gozun
Orthoptist, Vision Eye Institute Mackay
‘The team here at Mackay is nearly all female and has been very supportive. We have a positive work environment, and we genuinely care about our patients and each other. Everyone’s been great with picking up when one of us is not feeling one hundred per cent.
‘As a female with school-aged children, flexibility is an important consideration. This was one of the factors that influenced my working hours – the clinic took my availability into account during the hiring process. The team is very considerate when it comes to family events or commitments that may impact my working hours.
‘I am now able to get to more of the events for the kids at school, provided I notify my team leader and manager ahead of time. My kids are definitely happier! If I didn’t have this flexibility, we may not have been able to relocate so far from where my extended family is.’
Dr Tess Huynh
Ophthalmologist, Vision Eye Institute Hurstville
‘I have been very blessed to be part of a profession that has encouraged me as a woman to succeed in the traditionally conservative and highly sought-after surgical field of ophthalmology. In 1999, I was offered the very first job-sharing eye registrar position (with a friend) because we were planning to start a family during our training.
‘It was a bold and risky move on my part to even mention maternity, but the heads of departments at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital back then decided to support this aspiration. I believe my esteemed mentors were already on the road to accelerating gender equality 26 years ago in Victoria.’
‘I have been very blessed to be part of a profession that has encouraged me as a woman to succeed in the traditionally conservative and highly sought-after surgical field of ophthalmology.’
Dr Rushmia Karim
Ophthalmologist, Vision Eye Institute Chatswood, Drummoyne and Tuggerah Lakes
‘Tess (Huynh) and I are both working to improve global health. I recently travelled to Bangladesh in December 2024 to assist my father, who set up a rural health centre. Tess does similar work in Cambodia.
‘I manage to juggle providing bespoke ophthalmic care for patients, my family and community service through sports, music and art. Balancing these aspects of life is challenging but also rewarding.’
Amanda Cranage
CEO, Vision Eye Institute
‘Business and leadership success closely correlate with recognising and empowering the strengths and contributions of all women. By encouraging and supporting women in leadership roles and STEM fields, we can tap into a wealth of talent, creativity and intelligence – thereby unlocking the full potential of our workforce.
‘A greater representation of women in business brings unique perspectives and approaches that can transform organisations and industries. This diversity of thought, experience and insight is particularly important in addressing complex challenges and creating more inclusive solutions.
‘Inclusive leadership practices help build stronger, more resilient organisations that are better equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape, ultimately benefiting everyone.’
Jacinta Goldsack
National Manager – People & Culture, Vision Eye Institute
‘At Vision Eye Institute, we strive to create an environment where women can thrive, grow and lead at all levels of our organisation. This begins with attracting diverse talent by removing bias from hiring processes and ensuring equal access to opportunities.
‘We focus on retaining and growing our talent through mentorship, leadership programs and flexible work arrangements, enabling women to balance professional growth with personal commitments. Investing in upskilling and continuous learning empowers women to advance in their careers and take on leadership roles.
‘As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the importance of equity, inclusion and empowerment in the workplace. I’m proud to be a woman in leadership who supports others in achieving their career goals.’
‘I’m proud to be a woman in leadership who supports others in achieving their career goals.’
Date last reviewed: 2025-03-28 | Date for next review: 2027-03-28
