Charities & Support Groups
Optoversity challenge prepares
Optoversity challenge prepares to celebrate 10 years of supporting future optometrists and vision care
The Out of the Box Optoversity Challenge will be celebrating its 10th anniversary in February 2026, marking a decade of supporting optometry students, and more than £50,000 raised for Vision Care.
Launched in 2017, Optoversity Challenge was created by training and mentoring provider Out of the Box Optics as a fun, social and practical way to prepare optometry students for pre-registration. With their strong belief in accessible eye care for all they chose Vision Care (formerly Vision Care for Homeless People) as the charity partner.
The competition tests a wide range of optometry skills and knowledge while encouraging teamwork, mentorship and networking. All funds raised help Vision Care provide free eye care to people affected by homelessness. The inaugural event featured Aston University vs. Anglia Ruskin University; by 2025, 95 students from 12 universities participated, setting record fundraising records.
The 10th anniversary Optoversity Challenge 2026 will take place:
- Sunday 1 February 2026: online event for 1st and 2nd year students
- Saturday 7 February 2026: in-person events for 3rd and 4th year students, at University of Huddersfield and in Bristol.
Gajan Singh from Out of the Box Optics said: “We are incredibly proud of the success of Optoversity Challenge. The event has continued to evolve, while staying true to its core values of good-hearted competition, education, and mentorship; all whilst raising vital funds to help Vision Care provide eye care services to those in need”.
Alison Gordon, fundraiser at Vision Care, added: “Optoversity Challenge is powered by the goodwill of the optical community. This milestone year is a great opportunity for companies to get involved: supporting students, championing future talent and showcasing their work through sponsorship, prize donations and hands-on participation.”
Optoversity Challenge 2026 is supported by: AOP, Birmingham Optical, Frost Optical Services, FODO, Haag-Streit, Menicon, Mondottica, Specsavers, Théa, The Body Doctor, Tokai, Topcon, Wolf Eyewear and Optometry 101.
Companies interested in adding their support can contact alison@visioncarecharity.org.uk.
Students can register at: Vision Care: Out of the Box Optoversity Challenge 2026
Out of the Box Optics and Vision Care look forward to welcoming students, alumni, and volunteers to the 2026 event.
